News / Report highlights errors in Arnold Mouat search
AN INVESTIGATION into why police failed to find the body of Arnold Mouat in Bo’ness until a month after he went missing has ruled that officers did not carry out a “full and systematic” search for the Shetland man.
The body of 64 year old Mouat was found by a relative in his home property on Panbrae Road in Bo’ness in August last year.
Officers searched his address after he was reported missing in July but his body was not initially found.
The Police Investigations & Review Commissioner (PIRC) said in a report published today (24 April) that a more “thorough search” should have been carried out.
It has also issued a number of recommendations for Police Scotland when it comes to missing person searches.
Chief Superintendent Matt Richards apologised on behalf of Police Scotland and offered his “sincere condolences to the family and friends of Arnold Mouat”.
In response to the report, Mouat’s family said in a statement: “The past eight months have been incredibly difficult for our family as we have tried to come to terms with the loss of a loving father and husband.
“We are aware of the PIRC report and note that a number of recommendations have been made. Going forward we hope that Police Scotland will look carefully at these recommendations and that valuable lessons have been learned.
“As a family, we are grateful for the support we have received but we would now ask for our privacy to be respected to allow us to come to terms with our loss in peace.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.