She was speaking after Justice Minister Naomi Long confirmed Creswell, who was charged with the murder of Katie Simpson and later killed himself, did not come into contact with Public Protection Arrangements NI (PPANI) at the time of Katie’s murder, and so a Serious Case Review is unable to occur.
The confirmation came in a response from the Minister to Ms McAllister, who wrote to her regarding the case. The Minister has also provided her support for a specific review into the Creswell case, alongside commissioning a review of robustness and operation of PPANI’s referral mechanisms.
“I have been consistently clear the serious failings in relation to Jonathan Creswell must be uncovered and so I welcome this confirmation from the Justice Minister. I am glad the urgent need to review potential failures was taken seriously,” said Ms McAllister.
“Creswell had a violent history and a criminal record which reflected this. I have seen evidence which shows opportunities were missed from the PSNI, particularly around an additional victim prior to Katie’s murder, where PPANI arrangements should have been in place to manage this violent offender.
“I will continue to use my position on the Policing Board to seek clarity and accountability for these failings on behalf of Katie Simpson, and all victims of violence against women and girls."