Keeping every single scrap of evidence is key to convictions

A FORMER policeman said the failure to find the murder weapon during a search of the victim's house was an "aberration".

The ex-officer, who had 30 years experience working in the Highlands, said: "When any crime takes place the most important factor is the preservation of evidence.

"That remains the case even when the person arrested is admitting the offence because, of course, there is always the potential that they could alter their plea.

"So early acquistion and retention of all items of evidential value is crucial and key to that is thorough searching of the area in question. Therefore, what has happened in this case is, at best, disappointing. Search teams work in a systematic manner, recording the lay-out of premises and photographing and retaining samples. There is a clear evidential trail regarding the geography and chronology.

"Clearly this was an aberation. The one thing that is evident from this case is that the evidence gathering was not effective.

"Northern Constabulary has an excellent crime detection rate. But it does show the need to avoid any complacency because detection of crime and apprehension of offenders could all be jeopardised if people are not acting thoroughly at all times."