A POLICE watchdog has today ruled they will not investigate the contact between Caroline Flack and the Met Police before her tragic death.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct stated there was “no indication of a causal link” between the actions of police and the former Love Island host before her tragic death in February.
Metropolitan Police officers last had contact with the 40-year-old television presenter on December 13, 2019 when she was in custody following an alleged assault.
She died after taking her own life last month.
Met Police had made a mandatory referral to the IOPC due to her recent contact with officers but it was today revealed the decision had been made not to investigate further.
The IOPC today stated they had considered the mandatory referral but found there was no link “directly or indirectly” between the police and her death.
They said: “While in custody on 13 December, officers arranged for her to see a health care professional and relevant policy and procedure was followed to give her further guidance.
“On this basis, we have returned this referral to the MPS’ Department for Professional Standards (DPS) for them to deal with the matter in whatever manner they decide.”
The DPS has since concluded that a formal investigation is not required.
Caroline, 40, killed herself on February 15, a day after she had learned that the CPS was pursuing charges that she allegedly attacked her boyfriend Lewis Burton, 27, with a lamp.
LOVE ISLAND DEVASTATION
And Met Police today also released a statement over the IOPC’s decision not to investigate.
They said: “The IOPC said it does not consider it reasonable or proportionate based on the evidence provided to suggest officer involvement caused or contributed to Ms Flack’s death.
“The IOPC has referred the matter back to the MPS for the DPS to decide whether any further investigation or review into the circumstances is needed.
“The DPS has concluded that a formal investigation is not required. A comprehensive review of the circumstances surrounding all police contact with Ms Flack following her arrest and detention has already taken place as part of the referral process.
“No conduct has been identified on the part of any officer. In line with normal processes, if any new information should come to light it will be considered and action taken as appropriate.”
YOU'RE NOT ALONE
EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide.
It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.
The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:
- CALM, , 0800 585 858
- Heads Together,
- Mind, , 0300 123 3393
- Papyrus,, 0800 068 41 41
- Samaritans, , 116 123
However, a decision to push forward with prosecuting the Love Island host before her tragic death will be reviewed by the CPS.
Caroline had pleaded not guilty to assault by beating, but found out the day before her death that prosecutors had decided to move forward with the case.
The popular TV host had strongly denied the charge and her family and management slammed the CPS for pursuing the case branding it a “show trial”.
Lewis, who suffered a minor head injury during the incident at her North London home, has always insisted he “never supported” a prosecution.
He also said Caroline had become the subject of a “witch hunt”.
Caroline stepped down from hosting ITV2’s hit show Love Island after she was arrested.
She was bailed after the first court hearing, but was banned from contacting Lewis before the trial.
The trial was expected to begin today, March 4.
If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123