Victim's son calls for accountability for police

The son of a man who was fatally attacked a decade ago has called for the police to be held accountable following an official review that highlighted investigative failures. David Brickwood, 74, was stabbed and beaten at his home in Abington, Northampton, on 26 September 2015 and later died in hospital from his injuries.

A report from the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) revealed that Northamptonshire Police did not pursue key forensic leads during the early stages of the investigation, which could have significantly strengthened the case.

Dale Brickwood, Davids son, stated he plans to take legal action and has urged that forensic evidence be re-examined. "That was my dad; he was brutally murdered, and it sickens me," he said. "I intend to try and sue them because this is a disgrace. What happened to my family could happen to others."

He added, "I would like someone with decency to review all the forensic material that the police left untouched for four years. I believe thats the key to solving this."

Northamptonshire Police acknowledged the familys frustration, affirming that the investigation remains open. A spokesperson said: "No unsolved investigation is ever closed, and we continue to encourage anyone with information to come forward to help deliver justice for Davids family."

On the night of the attack, Mr. Brickwood was able to call emergency services and was taken to hospital, where he later died. An inquest revealed he had sustained 35 separate injuries, including blunt trauma, muscle tears, and stab wounds.

Although Northamptonshire Police made several arrests, it was not until 2020 that a man was charged with murder and burglary. In 2021, a judge at Birmingham Crown Court dismissed the case, ruling that the DNA evidence was "plainly insufficient," resulting in the defendants acquittal.

The IOPC report highlighted that missed forensic opportunities in 2016 could have led to additional evidence, such as house and vehicle searches, which were no longer possible by 2020. The report concluded that while no individual misconduct was found, the service provided by the police was unacceptable and likely hindered the case.

Dale Brickwood emphasized his desire for justice: "I have lost so many years of my life, unable to face anyone, losing my livelihood due to post-traumatic stress. Ten years on, this case has become cold and shelved, and we feel dismissed."

Author: Sophia Brooks