Woman warned police of abuse by serving superintendent ex-husband

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 10 Oct, 06:19 · Archive

Lydia Pettit told West Mercia Police she was abused by her ex-husband, a superintendent, in months before her death in July 2021.

A pre-inquest review at Worcestershire Coroners Court heard that Lydia Pettit, a mother of three from Worcester, told West Mercia Police she was the victim of domestic abuse by her ex-husband, Superintendent Damian Pettit, according to a lawyer for her family. The court heard she alleged he was using the force against her in the months before her death.

Ms Pettit, described as an 'inspirational teacher', had worked at St Peter's First School in Droitwich and Blackminster Middle School before becoming a full-time mother. She died on 22 July 2021.

The review, held on 30 September, heard that Ms Pettit threatened suicide on police body camera when her children were removed on 10 February, with Supt Pettit waiting outside. This was three days after a sergeant completed a DASH assessment, used by police to identify victims at serious risk of harm from domestic abuse, stalking or harassment. The outcome of this assessment is unclear.

Assistant coroner Deborah Lakin noted there was 'a lengthy history' between the couple and said Supt Pettit would need to give oral evidence at the inquest, though he did not attend the review. The Independent Office for Police Conduct is among the agencies represented in the proceedings.

How it is being reported

• Mum of 3 warned police of domestic abuse by top cop ex-husband, family sayThe revelation was one of many to be revealed about the death of Lydia Pettit, the ex-wife of serving police officer, Superintendent Damian PettitMalvern Gazette · 10 Oct, 05:00
• Mum of 3 warned police of domestic abuse by top cop ex-husband, family sayThe revelation was one of many to be revealed about the death of Lydia Pettit, the ex-wife of serving police officer, Superintendent Damian PettitWorcester News · 10 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Lydia Pettit · Damian Pettit · West Mercia Police · Worcester · Worcestershire

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