Domestic violence inquiry into woman's suicide

An investigation has been launched into Norfolk police's handling of domestic violence complaints from a woman who was found hanging in her home.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is to manage the inquiry into police contact with a woman prior to her recent death in Norwich.

Officers were called to an address in Norwich after the landlord of the property found the female occupant, aged 41, hanging in the bathroom on December 16. Police were called to the house the previous day following reports of a domestic attack.

Following that incident, specialist domestic violence officers repeated earlier attempts, made in the days prior to her death, to offer the woman further assistance. The death is not being treated as suspicious.

IPCC commissioner Rachel Cerfontyne said: "Bearing in mind the gravity of this outcome and the police's long history of involvement with the deceased, I think an investigation, managed by the IPCC, is appropriate.

'Police are making significant efforts to improve their service to victims of domestic violence, and we need to examine the contact with this woman to ensure steps taken were in line with force procedures and policies."

The woman had a long history of contact with police over domestic violence incidents dating back to 2006. She also had mental health issues and was known to be at risk of self-harm.

Norfolk police referred the woman's death to the IPCC on December 18. After initial assessment it was decided that an investigation would be conducted by the professional standards department of Norfolk police, managed by the IPCC.

A Norfolk police spokesman said the force was aware of the investigation and was assisting the IPCC.