Police Ombudsman investigators found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing by a PSNI officer involved in the murder investigation of Katie Simpson. The allegation focused on the officer's supposed conflicts of interest in the initial decision not to classify her death as suspicious.

Katie Simpson, 21, from Tynan in County Armagh, died in Altnagelvin Area Hospital almost a week after an incident in Gortnessy Meadows, Lettershandoney, on August 3, 2020. Police first believed she had died by suicide. Jonathan Creswell, 36, partner of her sister, faced murder charges the next year. His trial ended in April 2024 after his death.

Investigators conducted witness interviews and reviewed investigative materials, phone records, and email records. They uncovered no personal connections between the officer and other parties named in the complaint. The case is closed.

Findings from the broader probe into PSNI handling reached Simpson's family in November 2024. Details about this officer remained withheld until now due to the linked complaint, to preserve investigation integrity and officer fairness.

The family learned the Ombudsman issued no recommendations against the officer in the original review and confirmed no criminal wrongdoing in the follow-up. Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck noted the announcement and pledged continued cooperation with the Ombudsman.

Two additional complaints tied to the Simpson murder investigation remain at an advanced stage with the Police Ombudsman.