Two-year investigation into detective who dealt with murder victim 'still ongoing'

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) announced in June, 2017, that it had resumed enquiries around a detective constable and the officer’s response to apparent threats made against Craig Preston during August 2016.

The misconduct investigation began in December, 2016, following a complaint into the conduct of the unnamed officer.

The investigation was suspended to avoid prejudicing criminal proceedings but was resumed upon the conviction of Mr Preston’s five killers in May last year.

Huddersfield couple Shiraz Bashir (42) and Leonie Mason (24), along with three youths, were found guilty of killing Mr Preston, of Wath.

Mr Preston — also known as Craig Nelson — was attacked in a lay-by on Town Lane, Rockingham, and his body was found near to Woodhead Tunnels in August 21, 2016.

The IOPC received a referral from South Yorkshire Police in December 2016 regarding police contact with, and concerning, Mr Preston before his death.

A spokeswoman said a year ago that the investigation was nearing its final stages and repeated that claim last week.

She said the outcome was “imminent” and the results could be published within a month — but could not confirm when it would conclude.