IOPC investigation into Devon & Cornwall Police over Jake Davison’s possession of a shotgun nearing completion

The Independent Office for Police Conduct’s (IOPC) investigation into Jake Davison’s possession of a shotgun and shotgun certificate is nearing completion.

Earlier this week we submitted a preliminary investigation report with a file of accompanying evidence to the Coroner to assist with the pre-inquest review held in Plymouth today (Thursday).

Based on consideration of further evidence, we have recently served a notice on a third individual at Devon & Cornwall Police. The employee, who has been served a gross misconduct notice, is part of the force’s Firearms Licensing Department and was involved in granting a shotgun certificate to Jake Davison in 2017. Such notices advise individuals that their conduct is subject to investigation but do not mean that disciplinary proceedings will necessarily follow. In respect of the two force employees we previously served notices on, we have carried out an interview with one individual and obtained a written response from the other.

We have taken further statements, including from a man who has come forward to allege he reported to police that he was assaulted by Jake Davison outside a supermarket in Plymouth in 2016. We are examining what action police took following the report and whether their response was appropriate.

We have now completed all investigative steps for several lines of enquiry including:

· firearms licensing law, guidance and procedure

· Jake Davison’s engagement in the Pathfinder scheme

· his medical records

· his education, employment and firearms licensing history

· the weapon and ammunition he possessed.

We can confirm that after the shootings, one pump-action shotgun was recovered from Jake Davison’s possession for which he held a certificate. A number of air weapons were found by police at Mr Davison’s home address.

IOPC Regional Director David Ford said: “We are in direct contact with the bereaved relatives and those injured in the terrible events of 12 August and I again send my sympathies to all those affected. We have gathered and reviewed a considerable amount of information in the course of our investigation. While our investigative work is close to completion, we have followed the evidence as it has emerged and now have a small number of remaining actions to undertake.

“We have provided a preliminary report to the Coroner this week and are keeping the families and Devon & Cornwall Police updated throughout our investigation. At the end of our investigation, we will decide whether any individual has a disciplinary case to answer as well as whether there is any wider learning for the force, the police service nationally or other agencies involved with firearms licensing processes. We are now working to finalise a substantial report, together with our conclusions, early next year.

“I have met with a range of community representatives in Keyham and am grateful for their and the families’ patience while we work hard to finish our enquiries. We have also maintained dialogue with the Police and Crime Commissioner and the local MP. When we can issue our findings publicly will depend on future discussion with the Coroner. We will provide an update when our investigation fully concludes, and decisions are taken on what further action may be required.”