Brunstrom criticised but escapes discipline

MOTORCYCLE-LOATHING copper, Richard Brunstrom, has been criticised in an official report for showing pictures of a decapitated motorcyclist.

The report follows an incident involving photos from the crash scene of Mark Gibney, 40, from Merseyside, who was killed in a motorcycle accident in 2003. Photos of Mr Gibney's accident were used at a road safety briefing by Brunstrom to emphasise the dangers of motorcycles. The report said Brunstrom's actions had caused "deep distress" to Mr Gibney's family, who were not aware the images would be used.

An inquiry was launched by the Independent Police Complaints Commission after complaints from Mr Gibney's family. The family also called for Brunstom's resignation.

The IPCC report said Mr Brunstrom had not committed any criminal act or breached of official police procedures. But the Commission criticised Mr Brunstrom for failing to inform the family of his actions.