Police react to Oakley plea (From Watford Observer)

Police react to Oakley plea

11:38am Wednesday 6th August 2008 in News By John Harrison

The police officers who brought disgraced politician Ian Oakley to justice have said their investigation had been "to protect the integrity of the electoral system".

Hertfordshire Constabulary’s major crime task force launched Operation Tuition more than three years ago after Liberal Democrats in Watford began being targeted vicious letters and malicious act of vandalism.

And after Oakley pleaded guilty to seven charges of harassment and criminal damage, as well as asking for a further 68 vile acts to be taken in consideration, the officer in charge of the case said the aim had always been to protect democracy.

Detective Inspector Mick Trotman said: “This has been a thorough and lengthy investigation following a targeted campaign against members and supporters of the Liberal Democrat party.

“Our aim was to protect the integrity of the voting and electioneering process working closely with our partners and all political parties to find the person or people responsible, while being politically neutral.”

In the past three years Hertfordshire Constabulary have logged more than 150 incidents as part of Operation Tuition.

DI Trotman added: “The series of incidents were not about politics – they were about victims of crime, many of who were repeat victims.

“I’m pleased that we can reassure them and that Ian Oakley has been brought to justice to account for his actions.”