Four Metropolitan Police officers are under investigation for alleged misconduct following the murders of two women by a man they had previously reported. Carl Cooper, 66, was sentenced to life in July for killing Naomi Hunte, 41, and Fiona Holm, 48, who is still missing. The victims reported Cooper’s violent behaviour to the police before their deaths. The Met Police is reviewing the conduct of officers regarding Ms. Holm’s assault complaint against Cooper in April 2023. Despite being arrested, Cooper was not prosecuted, and Ms. Holm was killed two months later.
An investigation revealed errors in handling Ms. Holm’s complaint, suggesting a more thorough investigation could have led to vital witnesses supporting prosecution. Ms. Hunte had made domestic incident calls to the police, stating Cooper was “obsessed” with her. During a call in 2021, she expressed fear, saying, “he stalks me and I’m really scared now.” Met Police Commander Paul Brogden admitted mistakes in handling Cooper’s case and apologised to the victims’ families.
Cooper’s sentencing revealed his dangerous history towards women. The Independent Office for Police Conduct recommended a local investigation into the assault complaint. The Met Police continues inquiries to find Ms. Holm’s body. The Met Police expressed regret for not prosecuting Cooper sooner and apologised to Ms. Holm’s family. Four officers are under investigation for the assault complaint. The case will undergo review by the watchdog to ensure transparency.