Police inquiry into child sex abuse allegations to re-start with new team of detectives

By Tom Wilkinson, Reporter30th August 2022News EnglandChild Abuse, Child Protection, Childrens Services, News England, North East, Sexual Abuse

An investigation into alleged child sexual abuse is to be re-started with a new team of detectives following a major review of the initial inquiry, police have said.

Humberside Police made 34 arrests as part of Operation Marksman which looked into allegations of child sexual abuse made by two victims in Hull.

But no charges were made during the course of the inquiry which started in Spring 2019, although the force insisted it remained a “priority” and was under constant review.

Last year Humberside Police invited the Hydrant Programme – national experts on child sexual abuse inquiries – to assess its investigation.

Following that review, Operation Marksman will be started again with a new team of detectives, the force said.

Assistant Chief Constable David Marshall (pictured) said: “Based on Hydrant’s evidential review of Op Marksman, Humberside Police have taken the decision to establish a new investigative team and recommence the investigation.

“The investigation team will focus on a number of lines of inquiry, with the victims being updated and receiving our full support.

“Humberside Police understand the significant public interest in any allegations of child sexual abuse and exploitation within our communities.”

Jim Gamble (pictured), an expert on police inquiries into child sexual exploitation, was unavailable to comment on the development.

But he has previously said the evidence police had received was strong, and told Sky News last year: “If they need additional evidence, then go out and get it.”