Two Suffolk officers face hearings for gross incompetence following a Newmarket mother’s murder by her husband in 2023.
Following a referral from Suffolk police, the police watchdog, IOPC, investigated the case, focusing on the actions of officers before her death. The investigation looked at their contact with both Mrs. Abodunde and her husband.
Police responded to a domestic issue reported at the couple’s home on November 27th, which led to Mr. Abodunde’s arrest for assault. He was granted bail that same evening.
The next day, officers returned to take Mrs. Abodunde’s statement, but she did not answer the door. Hearing a commotion inside, police discussed entering with their supervisor. After a 35-minute delay, they entered the home. Sadly, they discovered Mrs. Abodunde deceased.
Mr. Abodunde was present. He was immediately arrested. In May 2024, he confessed to the murder and received a life sentence.
Potentially facing allegations of gross incompetence, one officer’s actions are under scrutiny in how they handled the initial incident and the delay in entering the house. This is even with existing worries about Mrs. Abodunde’s safety. Officers suspected her husband was inside.
The supervisor may also face allegations of gross incompetence, stemming from instructing officers not to enter despite their expressed concerns. Allegedly, the supervisor also failed to properly supervise the case following Mr. Abodunde’s initial arrest.
The probationary officer involved in this case is not facing disciplinary action, having resigned during the investigation.
Emily Barry from IOPC shared deep sympathy with Mrs. Abodunde’s family and friends. The IOPC investigation has resulted in two officers facing potential action through a gross incompetence hearing.
Gross incompetence hearings address serious failures in performing duties that could lead to termination. The IOPC does not determine guilt; instead, a police panel will review the evidence and decide if the actions meet the standard of gross incompetence.