Police watchdog to probe if inquiry into 1992 murder of Nikki Allan, 7, missed opportunities to snare killer

THE police watchdog is to investigate if an inquiry into the 1992 murder of seven-year-old Nikki Allan missed opportunities to nail her killer.

David Boyd, 55, got a life term last year for killing her in a Sunderland basement.

George Heron went on trial before he was cleared in 1993.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct will look at investigators’ decision-making, and if DNA analysis could have been used earlier.

And it will probe a subsequent homicide review.

The IOPC’s Emily Barry said police actions will be “thoroughly scrutinised”.

She added: "My sincere sympathies are with Nikki's family, who have lost a loved one in such horrific circumstances and then endured a 30-year wait to see justice served.

"Our investigation, which will be carried out independently of police, will be thorough and ensure the actions of police are thoroughly scrutinised.

"This is a complex and challenging case, not least because the passage of time means some of those involved in the original police investigation have since retired.

"But we will use all the resources available to us to ensure the family's concerns are carefully investigated.

"We have been in contact with Nikki's family to explain our role and will provide them with regular updates throughout our investigation.

"Our thoughts remain with all those affected by Nikki's death."