Notts Detective who had affair with murderer's solicitor in misconduct hearing

A Nottinghamshire Police officer who supported the family of Warsop murder victim Clifford Collinge was having an affair with the solicitor of one of the accused, a misconduct hearing was told.

Detective Constable Peter Surgay was a family liaison officer following the murder of Mr Collinge (pictured) in 2011.

Mr Surgay’s relationship with Ashfield-based solicitor Deborah Bell was kept secret as his wife also served with Nottinghamshire Police, the hearing was told.

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The detective is alleged to have been involved in what was described as “volatile” on-off sexual relationship with Ms Bell since 2009.

The solicitor, who regularly appears at Mansfield Magistrates’ Court, then went on to represent Stephen Shreeves - one of the three accused of the murder of Mr Collinge.

Shreeves is currently serving a life sentence after being found guilty of murder.

Widow Charlotte Collinge was initially found guilty of murder but was later acquitted following a retrial last year.

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Mr Surgay is alleged to have not reported the nature of the relationship which, it was argued, could have compromised a major investigation.

He is also facing a separate allegation of gross misconduct for sending “appalling” text messages to Ms Bell after the breakdown of their relationship.

The hearing is expected to conclude today (Wednesday, August 3).