Northamptonshire Police has acknowledged its failure to adequately support Harry Dunn and his family in the aftermath of the young man’s tragic death. A newly published independent report reveals that police officers prioritized the welfare of Anne Sacoolas, the US diplomat involved in the fatal incident, over the needs of Dunn’s family during the investigation.
Harry Dunn, just 19 years old, lost his life in 2019 when Sacoolas, driving on the wrong side of the road, collided with his motorcycle near RAF Croughton. After the crash, Sacoolas was not arrested and subsequently left the UK, claiming diplomatic immunity, as police determined that the circumstances did not meet a “necessity test” for detention.
The scathing report criticized the senior leadership of Northamptonshire Police, indicating that former Chief Constable Nick Adderley’s actions had a “detrimental” effect on the case. Following a lengthy battle for justice from Dunn’s family, Sacoolas eventually pleaded guilty in December 2022 to causing death by careless driving, resulting in a suspended eight-month prison sentence.
In light of the findings, Assistant Chief Constable Emma James issued an apology to Dunn’s family, acknowledging the police’s failure to prioritize the victim’s needs. She emphasized the importance of the review, noting that the report highlighted significant shortcomings in the police’s response to this high-profile case.
The report includes 38 recommendations aimed at reforming how Northamptonshire Police handles serious road traffic incidents. It suggests that the force has cultivated a culture of hesitation in arresting suspects, potentially inhibiting evidence collection. It pointed out that Sacoolas should have been arrested to facilitate the gathering of evidence, and that the rationale for not doing so lacked sufficient explanation.
Dunn’s mother, Charlotte Charles, expressed relief that the report validates her family’s experiences throughout their fight for justice. Recently awarded an MBE for her advocacy on road safety near US airbases, she shared her ongoing struggle with grief, urging others facing similar battles to maintain their resilience.
This situation serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of adequate police protocols and the need for compassion and accountability towards victims and their families in the aftermath of tragic events.