Lawyers representing victims of sexual abuse in Rotherham have welcomed a decision for the National Crime Agency (NCA) to lead an investigation into alleged crimes by former South Yorkshire police officers, after an outcry over the force's initial involvement.
South Yorkshire police had come under fire last month after it emerged it was to lead the investigation, overseen by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). Five women who were abused as children by grooming gangs have claimed they were also raped by police officers when they were as young as 12. Three former officers have been arrested and a fourth has died.
The IOPC said it was responding to concerns about a conflict of interest and that it was a joint decision with South Yorkshire police to ask the NCA to take over. The inquiry has been placed under the "direction and control" of the IOPC.
Alexis Jay, who chaired the independent inquiry into grooming gangs, had expressed shock at South Yorkshire police's involvement. The law firm Switalskis, representing survivors, said victims had no faith that the force would do a thorough job. After the change, Switalskis said it was a step in the right direction but remained concerned about the IOPC's role.
The South Yorkshire mayor, Oliver Coppard, also welcomed the move, saying he was pleased that the police and watchdogs had listened to the concerns of the young women.
