Emma Caldwell Family Urges Immediate Public Inquiry Over Murder Investigation Delays

The family of Emma Caldwell, murdered in 2005, has demanded that the long-delayed public inquiry into her death begin immediately, criticizing the ongoing police investigation as a cynical attempt to delay justice and prevent the truth from emerging. Despite the conviction last year of Iain Packer, who was sentenced to life with a minimum of 36 years for her murder and multiple sexual offences, the family expressed deep mistrust towards the police and Crown Office, highlighting failures in the initial investigation that allowed the killer to evade capture for nearly two decades. Lawyer Aamer Anwar, representing the family, emphasized that efforts to have an independent police force investigate previous officers' conduct have not materialized, reinforcing the family's call for a public inquiry as the only path to truth. The family’s meeting with Scottish Justice Secretary Angela Constance underscored their frustration with continued delays and the inadequate response to the case. They also stressed that Emma and other victims were valued members of their communities who were betrayed by the authorities. This urgent appeal reflects broader concerns about systemic failings in handling cases involving vulnerable women.