A Merseyside Police officer, identified as PC Scott Thompson, has been captured in a photo for the first time following allegations of being involved in the death of Rachael Louise Moore, a 22-year-old woman. Moore, described as a “Brilliant” graduate, tragically lost her life when she was struck by a marked police vehicle while crossing a street in Liverpool on Christmas Eve 2022.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct recently announced that PC Scott Thompson, aged 32, has been formally charged with causing Moore’s death due to careless driving. Thompson appeared in front of Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Monday, November 24, where he entered a plea of not guilty to the single charge.
Subsequently, Thompson has been released on unconditional bail pending his court appearance at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court scheduled for January 6 next year, as reported by the Liverpool Echo.
In the aftermath of Moore’s untimely passing, her family released a statement paying tribute to her. They expressed their grief over losing their beloved daughter, sister, partner, and friend, highlighting the impact she had on those around her.
Patrice Hayes, Rachael’s dissertation tutor at Liverpool Hope University, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event, describing Rachael as a talented writer with a strong commitment to social justice. Hayes mentioned the overwhelming community response at a memorial held in Rachael’s honor, emphasizing her enduring influence on students and staff alike.
Following the incident, Merseyside Police voluntarily referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which conducted an investigation leading to the submission of a case file to the Crown Prosecution Service for potential criminal charges in 2024.
An IOPC spokesperson disclosed that the investigation stemmed from a mandatory referral by the police force after a fatal collision involving a police vehicle driven by PC Thompson and Rachael Moore. The spokesperson further stated that consultations with the Crown Prosecution Service during the investigation process resulted in the authorization of the charge against PC Thompson.
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