Police Under Scrutiny Over Welfare Check and Release of Personal Info in Nicola Bulley Case

COPS in charge of the botched search for tragic Nicola Bulley are to face two major reviews into their handling of the case.

Officers confirmed Nicola’s body had been formally identified

The College of Policing was asked to begin a “full and independent review” of the bungled three-week search for the mum-of-two.

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Their investigation is likely to examine why police disclosed Nicola’s alcoholism and painfully personal menopause struggles.

Separately, the police watchdog has launched an investigation into a “welfare check” conducted at Nicola’s residence just days before she vanished.

No arrests were made concerning the incident.

The dramatic announcements were made within 45 minutes of each other amidst mounting criticism of Lancashire Police’s flawed investigation.

An Independent Office for Police Conduct spokesman said: “Following a referral by Lancashire Constabulary on Thursday, we have started an independent investigation regarding contact the force had with Nicola Bulley on January 10, 2023.

“The police department informed us that an officer visited the family’s residence on that date as part of a welfare check.

ALSO READ: Nicola Bulley’s Family Devastated After Confirmed Body Found

“Ms. Bulley’s family and friends, as well as all those affected by her passing, are in our thoughts.

Our investigation is still in its earliest stages.

Andrew Snowden, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire, disclosed today that he had asked the College of Policing to conduct a “comprehensive, independent review” of the case’s handling.

The force has since said it “welcomes” the independent review, which will focus on the investigation and search, communication and public engagement, and the releasing of personal information.

Mr. Snowden stated that it was being held because “there are questions that, quite rightly, members of the public and across different political spectrums want to be answered about the search, the investigation, and information release.”

“My job is to hold the police accountable for providing an efficient and effective policing service,” he continued. “Now that the investigation and search have been completed, it is appropriate to ask why that information was released and to ensure that it has been thoroughly reviewed.”