The police watchdog has recommended that four officers from Northamptonshire Police should face misconduct proceedings over their handling of domestic abuse allegations made by Harshita Brella, who was later found dead in a car boot.
Tragic Timeline of Events
Harshita Brella, 24, reported to Northamptonshire Police on 29 August last year that she had suffered domestic abuse by her then husband Pankaj Lamba. The suspect was arrested on 3 September and released on police bail with conditions not to contact his wife, and was issued with a Domestic Violence Protection Order.
Tragically, Ms Brella's body was discovered in the boot of a Vauxhall Corsa in Ilford, Essex, on 14 November. Police suspect she was strangled in Corby, Northamptonshire, on the evening of 10 November.
An international manhunt remains ongoing to locate Lamba, who is believed to have left the UK for India. In March, the Crown Prosecution Service announced that Lamba, then 23, had been charged in his absence with Ms Brella's murder and rape.
Independent Police Investigation Findings
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) began an independent investigation on 20 November 2024 following a referral from Northamptonshire Police. Their investigation examined the actions of two detectives assigned to the domestic abuse investigation, plus two more senior officers with supervisory responsibility.
The watchdog has concluded that the two Detective Constables have a case to answer for gross misconduct. They believe a police disciplinary panel could find the officers didn't appropriately review the case, set investigative actions, seek supervisory advice, or keep Ms Brella sufficiently updated.
Additionally, the investigation found there is a misconduct case to answer for a Sergeant and Chief Inspector over their supervision and review of the domestic abuse investigation and associated risk assessment for Ms Brella.
Watchdog's Statement and Learning Opportunities
IOPC Director of Engagement Derrick Campbell stated: "This is a harrowing case in which a young woman was killed not long after arriving in the UK to start a new life. Our thoughts remain with Ms Brella's family and friends as they seek justice for what happened."
He added that their independent investigation examined Northamptonshire Police's response to Ms Brella's disclosure of domestic abuse, scrutinising their investigation strategy, actions taken, communication with the victim, and safeguarding considerations.
The watchdog said its investigation has also identified areas of potential learning for Northamptonshire Police, which are currently being reviewed, in relation to its Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit.
All parties have been informed of the IOPC's decisions, and it will now be for Northamptonshire Police to organise the disciplinary proceedings. The officers may potentially have breached police standards of professional behaviour relating to duties and responsibilities.
