Following the tragic death of 33-year-old Tara Kershaw at the hands of her violent partner, Adam Barnard, an extensive investigation is underway, probing the actions of Norfolk Police.

Kershaw, a mother of two, had repeatedly reported incidents of abuse, calling 999 frequently to report Barnard’s violent behavior, including weekly threats and strangulation attempts.

Yet, despite her pleas, Barnard was released just hours after his arrest, a decision that has led to deep scrutiny of the police response.

A Series of Warnings Ignored

In January, Kershaw contacted police to report a physical assault by Barnard.

When officers arrived to arrest him, Barnard mocked the incident, even re-enacting a cartoonish strangulation scene, downplaying the violence.

Released later that evening, he returned to the guest house he shared with Kershaw, bought alcohol, and in a fit of anger over his arrest, fatally strangled her.

The following day, Barnard surrendered to police, but it was too late for Kershaw.

This tragedy has now triggered an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to determine whether officers failed to protect her.

Investigations and Misconduct Allegations

The IOPC has disclosed that it is examining the actions of five police officers and a civilian employee.

Two of these individuals are being investigated for gross misconduct, while four others are being reviewed for potential misconduct.

Norfolk Police referred the case to the watchdog, citing concerns about the handling of multiple reports of abuse between November 2023 and January 2024.

Family Heartbroken Over ‘Preventable’ Loss

During the trial, Kershaw’s sisters voiced their anguish, describing her death as avoidable if authorities had taken her cries for help seriously.

Her sister, Tanita Salih, expressed feeling “shattered” and emphasized that Kershaw was repeatedly ignored because of her alcohol issues.

Zoe Savva, another sister, highlighted the family’s ongoing anger, lamenting that “nothing was done” despite Kershaw’s relentless calls for assistance.

Barnard’s Trial and Sentencing

At his trial, Barnard claimed that Kershaw’s death was accidental, suggesting he was defending himself.

The jury, however, rejected his narrative, finding him guilty of murder after a 17-day trial.

He showed little emotion as the judge sentenced him to life in prison, with a minimum of 19 years, for the violent murder committed in what was described as a “rage.”

Kershaw was portrayed as a vulnerable woman, suffering from addiction, who had sought love and protection but received only abuse and control from Barnard.

Looking Forward: Reform and Accountability

The IOPC investigation is expected to address critical issues surrounding police response to domestic violence, particularly cases involving victims with vulnerabilities like addiction.

Although the IOPC has served conduct notices to the involved officers, further disciplinary action is pending.

Norfolk Police Detective Inspector Alix Wright expressed hope that Barnard’s sentence would provide some justice, acknowledging the pain caused by his manipulation and lack of remorse.

As the investigation continues, Kershaw’s family remains focused on ensuring that the tragedy sheds light on systemic failures, so that others might receive the protection Kershaw was denied.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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