Stephen Fulcher

This story reads like a thriller as it recounts the investigation into and ultimate incarceration of Chris Halliwell, taxi driver from Swindon, who was found responsible for the murder of Sian O'Callaghan and Becky Godden-Edwards. As an employee of Her Majesty's Courts Service I was fascinated to follow the chase to find the killer in the hands of SIO Stephen Fulcher. The narrative and events that occur lead to the prosecution of Fulcher as a senior police officer who in his search for justice disregarded procedures under Pace (Police and Criminal Evidence act) and by not issuing Halliwell with the customary warning (before Halliwell confessed to the murder of Becky) was found to be in neglect of his duties. The story therefore raises and debates some fascinating legal issues and in the final outcome justice is seen to be served but at what price to a dedicated and serving police officer. For anyone interested in crime whether true or fiction this is a work of some brilliance and needs to be read.… (meer)