I am making public an independent interim report by Alyson Kilpatrick BL examining the article 2 European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR) compliance of Operation Kenova.
It is important to note that this report provides an interim position as Ms Kilpatrick is yet to finish her review.
That said, the report provides assurance to families and stakeholders alike, that the investigations being conducted are being done so with proper regard to the requirements of article 2. Ms Kilpatrick was previously the independent Human Rights Legal Advisor to the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
Ms Kilpatrick concludes in her document: "Operation Kenova investigation appears to be an exemplar of one which is commanded and controlled with every aspect of article 2 firmly in mind and which has already contributed to securing public confidence in the rule of law."
You can read the full report by clicking on this link.
My team and I remain committed to delivering an independent and thorough investigation for families. Currently a number of files are with the Director of Public Prosecutions for consideration with further files being submitted in the next few weeks.
After any prospective criminal justice process has concluded or in the event that no prosecutions are to take place, I will then deliver a public report, the Kenova Findings report, setting out the findings of our investigation.
Jon Boutcher
Former Chief Constable