An independent review has found that institutional misogyny played a role in critical warning signs being overlooked during the initial police investigation into the 2020 death of showjumper Katie Simpson in County Derry.
Stormont Justice Minister Naomi Long acknowledged the determination and courage of Simpson’s family, as the report highlighted “systemic failings” in how police handled the case. Led by Dr Jan Melia, the review concluded that not a single officer involved in the original investigation seriously considered the possibility of coercive control or abuse.
The report identified widespread shortcomings not only within policing but also across social and health services, issuing 16 recommendations—many of which focus on improved training and awareness.
Katie Simpson, aged 21 and originally from Tynan, County Armagh, died in Altnagelvin Area Hospital nearly a week after an incident at Gortnessy Meadows in Lettershandoney. Initially, police believed her death was self-inflicted. However, in 2021, Jonathan Creswell—who was in a relationship with Simpson’s sister—was arrested on suspicion of murder. His trial in April 2024 collapsed after he died suddenly on its opening day.
According to the review, 37 individuals have since come forward alleging abuse by Creswell. Investigators were found to have missed key inconsistencies in his account, failed to secure or preserve crucial evidence, and neglected important forensic opportunities. Witness statements were dismissed, and vital digital evidence—such as phone records and text messages—was not properly examined, potentially concealing patterns of abuse.
The findings also pointed to a lack of professional curiosity among officers, with investigators failing to adopt a questioning mindset or explore alternative explanations despite evident warning signs.
In a foreword to the report, Simpson’s mother described the findings as deeply upsetting. She said the document revealed numerous failures, adding that it felt as though there had been a lack of care shown toward her daughter by authorities.
Speaking publicly, she expressed her belief that justice, in a broader sense, would still prevail. She also stressed the need for stronger protections within the equestrian world, noting that young girls’ passion for horses can sometimes place them in vulnerable situations. She urged those within the industry to take greater responsibility for safeguarding younger participants.
Naomi Long described the report as difficult but essential reading, emphasizing the importance of publishing it in full with the family’s support to ensure transparency. She stated that abuse often persists in environments shaped by silence, fear, and stigma, and that open discussion is necessary to challenge these conditions.
The Katie Trust, established in Simpson’s memory, welcomed the report as an important step toward accountability. The organisation noted that the issues identified are not isolated, pointing to similar concerns raised by over 100 families it supports. It called for broader reform, including within the equestrian sector.
Founder James Brannigan also urged immediate changes, including the use of body-worn cameras by police in all sudden death cases. He argued that such measures could improve investigations and help uncover the truth more effectively.
The report, he said, should mark the beginning of meaningful change rather than the end of the conversation.
