Acclaimed crime novelist Val McDermid has publicly condemned the police for what she describes as the "appalling" treatment of her close friend Nicola during a fraud investigation.
McDermid, known for her sharp critiques of law enforcement in both fiction and reality, did not hold back in her assessment of the case. She insisted that Nicola had been subjected to undue scrutiny and poor handling by officers involved in the probe.
Outcry Over Police Conduct
The author, whose bestselling thrillers often explore themes of justice and institutional failure, argued that the investigation had been mishandled from the outset. "The way Nicola has been treated is nothing short of disgraceful," McDermid stated. "There seems to be a complete lack of professionalism in how this case has been conducted."
Questions Over Fairness
Friends and supporters of Nicola have echoed McDermid's concerns, suggesting that the police may have acted unfairly. While details of the fraud allegations remain unclear, McDermid emphasised that due process had not been followed. "Everyone deserves a fair investigation, regardless of the accusations," she added.
The case has sparked wider debates about police accountability and the treatment of individuals under investigation. McDermid's high-profile intervention is likely to keep the spotlight on the issue.
