A Wick family who believe a probe into the “unexplained” death of their son was flawed has welcomed news that there is to be an independent review into complaints against the police.
The family of 24-year-old electrician Kevin Macleod have repeatedly challenged the authorities following the tragedy at Wick Harbour in 1997, which they firmly believe was murder.
It was only last year that parents Hugh and June were given a personal apology from Assistant Chief Constable Iain Livingstone, currently the most senior officer in Scotland.
The Scottish Government this week announced an independent review is to take place into how complaints against the police are handled.
It will be carried out by the former Lord Advocate, Dame Elish Angiolini.
The move follows questions raised about the way investigations are carried out into senior police officers, including former chief constable Phil Gormley who resigned five months after a series of investigations had begun into allegations of gross misconduct.
Mr and Mrs Macleod claimed the current set up was “toothless” and not fit for purpose, adding: “We, Kevin’s family, welcome this independent review to assess the current system for handling complaints against the police, as the current set-up we believe is farcical and suspect is rife with collusion, corruption, and secrecy and is clearly designed to protect the police from any blame or punishment.
“For the public to have any trust and confidence regarding complaints about the police system the Scottish government must now amend the current regulations. The current police complaints system is biased and so unfair.”
