PCC Statement Following Death of Peter Sutcliffe

13th November 2020

Following the statements issued this afternoon by Chief Constable John Robins on behalf of West Yorkshire Police in relation to the death of Peter Sutcliffe, West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Mark Burns-Williamson said:

“It is only right that the victims, survivors and their families receive the apology they deserve for the historic handling of this investigation and it is absolutely the right thing for West Yorkshire Police to have done.

“I had been in contact with the Force prior to Sutcliffe’s death on this very matter and today’s news clearly brings added focus upon its significance.

“Albeit policing approaches have moved on significantly since the time in question, there must be a full acknowledgement of the experiences of those affected and an acceptance that the required standards were not met.

“I do not underestimate what this also represents to our local communities and my overriding thoughts remain with all those personally affected over the years.”