Police watchdog referral following death of Portsmouth grandmother

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct following the death of a 74-year-old woman in Portsmouth.

Carole Langley was found dead at an address in Cyprus Road, Fratton, after officers attended shortly before 10am on Monday, September 14, following a report of a domestic incident.

The referral to the IOPC relates to contact made with police before Mrs Langley was found dead, including a call made to the force earlier that morning.

The police watchdog has confirmed it is now assessing the circumstances surrounding that contact to determine whether any further investigation or action is required.

An IOPC spokesperson confirmed that a mandatory referral had been received from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary following Mrs Langley’s death.

Scott Langley, 48, of St Pauls Road, Southsea, has since been charged with murder and two counts of assaulting a police officer.

He is due to appear before Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court today, Thursday, September 17.Mrs Langley’s family have paid tribute to her as a “wonderful mother, grandmother and sister” and described her as a kind and loving person who always put those closest to her first.

They said her love, kindness and memories would continue to live on through her family and asked for privacy while they grieve.

The IOPC assessment relates specifically to the force’s prior contact and does not, at this stage, amount to a finding of wrongdoing by any officer.More to follow.