Four Northamptonshire police officers are facing misconduct hearings over their handling of domestic abuse claims made by Harshita Brella, who was found dead last year. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said the officers may have breached professional standards in their response to the 24-year-old's allegations.
Brella, from Corby, was found dead in the boot of a car in Ilford, east London, on 14 November 2024. It is suspected she was strangled in Corby on 10 November. Her former husband, Pankaj Lamba, 23, has been charged with her murder and is believed to have left the UK for India. A manhunt is ongoing.
Northamptonshire Police referred itself to the IOPC on 20 November, a mandatory step because of officers' prior contact with Brella. The watchdog concluded on Monday that four officers should face misconduct proceedings over the handling of her claims.
The IOPC found that two detective constables have a case to answer for gross misconduct over their investigation into Brella's allegations. A sergeant and a chief inspector also have a misconduct case to answer over their supervision and review of the investigation.
Brella contacted Northamptonshire Police on 29 August 2024 alleging domestic abuse by Lamba. He was arrested on 3 September and released on police bail with conditions not to contact her, and was issued with a domestic violence protection order. The IOPC's investigation scrutinised the force's investigation strategy, actions taken, communication with the victim, and safeguarding considerations.
Assistant Chief Constable Emma James said the force would review the IOPC's report thoroughly to understand the issues raised and implement any recommendations to improve the quality of service. The IOPC also identified potential learnings for Northamptonshire Police's domestic abuse investigation unit, which is being reviewed.
