Woman suing force over relationship with police officer, court hears

She denied going to the IOPC because Mr Higgins ended their relationship and broke her heart.

Det Con Nia Palla accompanied Mr Higgins to Ms O’Neill’s initial report of domestic violence in 2020, and told the court Mr Higgins later told her that he recognised Ms O’Neill because he had “met her before on a night out”.

DC Palla said Mr Higgins confirmed to her that he and Ms O’Neill were dating two years later, but she did not think it was wrong because Mr Higgins told her they knew one another before the domestic violence call-out and because the case had been closed.

The court heard she did not consider Ms O’Neill vulnerable.

Mr Higgins’ then sergeant, Det Sgt Jane Locke, said she did not initially know Mr Higgins had been involved in Ms O’Neill’s case.

She later informed South Wales Police’s professional standards department and in a statement she said she had concerns his conduct might be inappropriate.

Ms O’Neill answered “I believe so” when it was put to her she could benefit financially if her action against the police is successful, adding “but as well as compensation, an apology too”.

The case continues.