Ashley points

It is with some regret that I write to you about the tragic death of James Ashley.

However, I must address some issues raised in your recent report (see [2001] Gazette, 5 July, 5).

The report implies that James Ashley was shot in bed.

He was not.

It was established at the Old Bailey trial of the officer involved, that Mr Ashley was moving towards, and close to, the police officer who fired the fatal shot.

The officer was acquitted on the directions of the trial judge, just before the conclusion of the prosecution case.The raid was not 'bungled'.

This is a word that Kent police have used in their press briefings.

No Sussex officers, who have been accused of wrongdoing, have been given the opportunity to give or call evidence to question, challenge and rebut that assertion.

I have given notice of my intention to retire, but continue strongly to support the Ashley family's call for an independent inquiry into the affair.

Despite my having written twice to the Home Secretary asking for an independent inquiry, I have yet to receive a reply.Paul Whitehouse, Chief Constable, Sussex police