The Police Ombudsman inquiry into the killing of a Catholic teenager, Gerard Lawlor, by loyalist paramilitaries in 2002 has disappointed his family. The findings revealed significant flaws in the 2002 inquiry conducted by the Police Service of Northern Ireland. However, the Police Ombudsman Marie Anderson stated that she did not find any evidence of collusive behavior or proof that the murder could have been prevented.

Despite the Ombudsman’s conclusions, Gerard Lawlor’s family maintains their belief that there was collusive behavior during the police inquiry that prevented charges from being brought. The family’s attorney, Niall Murphy, referred to the Ombudsman’s report as a “detailed analysis of a pathetic police investigation” and emphasized that the family believes the facts support their position.

John Lawlor, Gerard Lawlor’s father, expressed disappointment that justice for his son’s death has not been achieved even after more than 20 years. He emphasized the need for police accountability and a just and open society. He also criticized what he saw as a lack of consequences for certain segments of society.

The report has led to renewed discussions about the failures of the initial investigation and the perceived hindrance caused by collusive behavior. Despite the Ombudsman’s findings, the family’s belief in collusive behavior as a factor preventing successful prosecutions remains unchanged.

The report’s release also comes amidst preparations for Gerard Lawlor’s inquest, which had been postponed while the Ombudsman’s inquiry was ongoing. A preliminary hearing for the inquest is expected to take place in the upcoming weeks or months, as indicated by Mr. Murphy, the family’s attorney.

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