New head for abuse inquiry

Wednesday 27th August 2008, 2:58PM BST.

THE man who spearheaded the investigation into the Morecombe Bay cockling tragedy is to take over the day-to-day running of the Haut de la Garenne inquiry.

Det supt Mick Gradwell, pictured, is to replace Lenny Harper, who retired earlier this month, as the senior investigating officer. He was appointed this week following a rigorous selection process which attracted 27 high-calibre applicants from across the country.

Mr Gradwell is currently working for the Lancashire constabulary’s major investigation team and is described by the States force as ‘one of the UK’s most experienced detectives’.

He has been seconded for a one-year contract to oversee the historical child abuse inquiry and will work under the strategic command of Mr Harper’s replacement as deputy police chief, David Warcup.

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