Investigation into police contact with Gracie Spinks before her death

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating contact between Derbyshire Police and Gracie Spinks before she died.

We received a referral from the force because their officers had contact with her in the months before her death on 18 June.

We understand Ms Spinks, 23, made contact with Derbyshire Police in February to make an allegation of stalking and that officers spoke to her and the man whose behaviour she had reported.

Our investigation will consider whether the police investigation into the matter was carried out in line with all relevant policies and guidance, as well as whether the force met all its safeguarding obligations to Ms Spinks.

We will also look into the actions and decision-making of police following the discovery of bag containing weapons by a member of the public in May this year. It was found close to where Ms Spinks died several weeks later. The discovery was reported to the force.

We have informed Ms Spinks’ family, the force and the Coroner of our involvement.

IOPC Regional Director Derrick Campbell said: “This was a heart-breaking incident where a young woman has lost her life and our thoughts are with all those affected.

“We recognise the impact this has had on the local community, which is why it is so important for us to carry out our investigation, which is independent of the police.

“Our work will focus on understanding the circumstances leading up to her death, and the police response to those, and will be provided to the Coroner in advance of the inquest.

“As this work is still at an early stage, we are unable to provide more information at this time.”