Sir, The dignified post-trial statement of Detective Superintendent David Kelly following the successful conclusion to the Rhys Jones murder case (report, Dec 17) is worthy of close inspection by other police spokesmen in similar situations. Rather than a rant, coupled with pejorative statements about the moral decadence, evil intent and manipulative behaviour of the defendant, the superintendent instead focused, rightly, on the dignity of Mr and Mrs Jones and the lack of pressure from them for a quick result. He concluded that it was an honour to have worked on the case and to bring the killer to justice. It was a worthy comment from a worthy officer.

In similar vein, on television, Mr Jones spoke of his gratitude to the police and the painstaking way in which their investigation enabled a satisfactory outcome of the case.

The police have had a bad press recently. It is clear, however, that in this case at least respect for the police has resulted in respect from the police. There is a lesson here for us all, police and public alike.

Terence Crolley

Maghull, Merseyside

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