Rachel Stonehouse

A review of the life and crimes of serial sex offender Richard Scatchard shows he drugged and assaulted women for decades before the unlawful killing of Kelly Faiers in 2023. Faiers’ family, unaware of his past, blame systemic failings that allowed him to hide his relationship from probation and police supervision. Investigators revealed a long history of drugging, coercion and violence, and former officers described him as irredeemably dangerous. Despite prior convictions and warnings, Scatchard was released on licence in 2013 following treatment programmes. After Faiers’ death he fled and was later found dead, leaving her family without closure. Several complaints against police were upheld, and authorities say they are increasing resources and training for managing sex offenders.