Emma Webber wrote an open letter to members of a police WhatsApp group after her son, along with two others, were stabbed to death in Nottingham by Valdo Calocane. She expressed her shock at the comments made by an officer in the group, describing the victims in a callous and traumatic manner. Calocane, who carried out the fatal stabbings, was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and given an indefinite hospital order for manslaughter by diminished responsibility.
In her letter, Mrs. Webber criticized the officer for referring to the victims as ‘properly butchered’ and sharing graphic details of the injuries. She emphasized the trauma caused by the comments and urged the officers to show compassion and care in their words and actions. She also expressed her disappointment in the police force’s handling of the case and called for accountability among the officers involved.
The officer responsible for the comments received a management warning, and Mrs. Webber acknowledged this action while sharing her concerns over the lack of empathy displayed. She emphasized the need for understanding and respect, especially when dealing with sensitive and traumatic situations such as the one her son and the other victims went through. Mrs. Webber called for a change in attitude and behavior within the police force to prevent further harm.
The Nottinghamshire Police force has been under scrutiny for its handling of the case, with the police watchdog and the College of Policing investigating the matter. Mrs. Webber raised concerns over the involvement of the force’s boss, Kate Meynell’s son in the group where the offensive comments were made. Several staff members were disciplined for inappropriate conduct related to the case, including accessing confidential information and sharing it inappropriately.
Despite the challenges and setbacks, Mrs. Webber emphasized her commitment to seeking justice for her son and the other victims. She called for a review of the sentence given to Calocane, which has been deemed too lenient by the Attorney General. She urged for transparency and accountability within the police force, highlighting the need for better training and awareness around sensitive issues such as mental health and trauma.
In her ongoing efforts to seek justice and closure, Mrs. Webber continues to advocate for reforms within the police force and the legal system. She hopes that her open letter will bring about positive change and prevent such traumatic incidents from happening in the future. Through her advocacy and determination, she is striving to honor the memory of her son and ensure that his tragic death does not go unnoticed or unaddressed.
