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Police in Margate went 'above and beyond' in Kevin Tridgell's murder inquiry

An investigation by police into the actions of officers and staff over the murder of Kevin Tridgell has concluded that they could not have foreseen his death.

The independent investigation also concluded that Kent Police officers acted above and beyond their duties.

Trevor Brazier was jailed for life earlier today for the killing.

Kevin Tridgell died after being strangled by Trevor Brazier. Picture: Kent Police
Kevin Tridgell died after being strangled by Trevor Brazier. Picture: Kent Police

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) began an investigation after Mr Tridgell's murder in June 2018 by Brazier in Margate following a referral by Kent Police.

A statement released today by the IOPC said: "We examined the actions of police control room staff who handled and graded the emergency calls, and the deployment and response of officers who twice attended an address in Northdown Avenue before the death of Mr Tridgell on Saturday, June 2.

"Our investigation concluded five months later, in November 2018, during which time statements were obtained from the officers, who twice attended the address, as well as two member of staff working in the force control room who graded the emergency call.

"We also identified and obtained statements from other police witnesses and analysed body worn video footage of the incident.

"We found that the two police constables who attended the property in Northdown Avenue went above and beyond the duties required of them. They attended the address, spoke with the occupants and liaised with paramedics who were also at the scene.

Kent Police Headquarters in Maidstone
Kent Police Headquarters in Maidstone

"The officers then attended the property a second time and attempted to mediate even though their attendance was no longer required, owing to the emergency call being down-graded.

"We also recognise the challenging situation the officers found themselves in."

Regional director Sarah Green said: “This is clearly a very sad incident and we extend our sympathies to Mr Tridgell’s family.

“The officers made a judgement call, based on the evidence in front of them, not to arrest Mr Tridgell or remove him from the property.

“Our investigation concluded that this decision did not cause or contribute to Mr Tridgell’s death and the officers acted in a professional manner in accordance with Kent Police’s policies and procedures.”

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