Thursday 18 April 2013

No manslaughter charges

BBC Website 18 April 2013

No manslaughter charges will be brought after the deaths of four Suffolk men at an engineering firm in Norfolk in 2011.

The police said, after investigating and consulting with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), it would not be pursuing criminal charges.
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) said it was reviewing its investigation.

A police statement said: "Following extensive consultation with CPS Special Casework Division, a decision has been made not to proceed with any manslaughter offences against any individual or company.
"Officers from the Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team will now liaise with the coroner in respect of inquests and the HSE to support any proceedings they may be considering."
 
The HSE has yet to decide whether prosecutions will be brought under health and safety law. A HSE spokesperson said: "Following the CPS's decision , the HSE is reviewing its investigation."

Meanwhile, work is beginning on creating a memorial for the men after the local newspaper group Archant raised £36,000.

It is being erected at The Cock Inn, Stanton, where the four men were regular punters.

The design is being kept a secret, but is due to be ready within two weeks.

Nigel Wallace, pub landlord, said: "It'll be on a plinth and lit up so that people will be able to sit and quietly reflect or just enjoy the area.

"They were part of the village - Dan and Adam played for Stanton FC - and they shouldn't be forgotten."