06.11.2007
Police misconduct case
A police officer has pleaded guilty to misconduct after an independent inquiry into the fatal stabbing of a woman.
PC Charlotte Hall admitted breaching the code of conduct by failing to perform her duties "diligently and conscientiously" when she was called to the home of Colette Lynch.
Two days after the visit the mother-of-three was killed by her estranged partner.
PC Hall, 30, and PC Theresa Cottingham, who denies misconduct, are both appearing before a disciplinary hearing in Rugby, Warwickshire.
It follows an investigation by the Independent Police Complaints Commission into the unlawful killing of Ms Lynch on February 3, 2005.
Neither officer is alleged to have acted criminally and the allegation against them is being brought under police service disciplinary powers.
Ms Lynch, 24, was stabbed to death near her home by her former partner Percy Wright.
The 35-year-old was later convicted of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and made subject to a hospital order under the Mental Health Act.
Copyright © PA Business 2007
Ifti Manzoor from Irwin Mitchell Solicitors specialises in police misconduct, he commented: This highlights the fundamental importance of the police acting professionally at all times - There were clear failings by the officer which resulted in this tragic case which could and should have been prevented.
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