POLICE: 'lessons learned' but no apology

DEVON and Cornwall Police refused to answer questions regarding the IPCC's report.

But, in a statement, a spokesman said: "We welcome and fully accept the findings of the report, much of which relate to historic practices.

"We have already adopted much of the learning contained within the IPCC report.

"This investigation has highlighted a potential national issue around how historic DNA should be treated.

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"However, DNA technology has progressed significantly since 1989 and the way police investigate such offences is now very different.

"Devon and Cornwall Police have proactively sought to identify any such cases and have currently found three related to historic, undeveloped DNA hits.

"All of these cases have been voluntarily referred to the IPCC and have all now resulted in substantial prison sentences for offenders."

An ACPO spokeswoman added: "ACPO will work with the IPCC in relation to any lessons which may need to be shared with the wider service as a consequence of their investigation into this particular case."