New officer heads up Jersey case

Michael Gradwell has been appointed as the senior investigating officer

The detective who led an investigation into the deaths of cockle pickers in Morecambe Bay is taking over a two-year inquiry into child abuse in Jersey.

Det Supt Michael Gradwell, 47, of Lancashire Police, has been appointed as the senior investigating officer.

The role was previously filled by Jersey's deputy chief officer, Lenny Harper, who retired in August.

Police are investigating abuse claims at children's institutions in Jersey dating from the early 1960s to 1986.

Det Supt Gradwell, who is expected to start in September, will be in charge of the day-to-day running of the inquiry.

His appointment follows that of Jersey police's new deputy chief officer, David Warcup, who will be responsible for the overall strategy, policy and standards of the investigation.

Mr Harper, 56, had previously been in charge of both roles.

His critics, both politicians and journalists, claimed he enjoyed the limelight too much and that the way information about the initial find of human remains at Haut de la Garenne was released to the media led to sensationalist reporting.

He also faced criticism that his constantly striving to keep the case in the headlines turned it into a personal campaign.

Three people have been charged in connection with the inquiry and there are more than 80 other people being investigated by police. More than 100 people have made allegations.