JOHN STALKER DIES AT THE AGE OF 79
POLICE CHIEF LED NI’S SHOOT-TO-KILL PROBE
JOHN Stalker, one of Britain’s most high-profile police officers when he launched an investigation into ‘shoot to kill’ allegations in Northern Ireland, has died aged 79, his family has announced.
Manchester-born Mr Stalker served as an officer for more than three decades, rose to the rank of Deputy Chief Constable and led a major inquiry into the policing of the Troubles, which became known as the Stalker Inquiry.
Mr Stalker, who is survived by his two daughters, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, had been in poor health following the death of his wife 14 months ago.
Colette Cartwright, his eldest daughter, led tributes to him yesterday.
She said: “Our dad John was a beloved husband, grandfather and great-grandfather who enriched the lives of many.
“After marrying my dear mum Stella in 1961 he spent his life as a devoted police officer, proudly serving the people of Greater Manchester for more than 30 years.
“He is fondly remembered by many as going above and beyond the call of duty and was committed to making a difference for those most in need.
“As testament to this, he devoted his life to a career in CID where he worked for 16 years, rising to the rank of Detective Superintendent.
“Respected by many of his colleagues, he had a varied career and held posts in the Serious crime squad and the bomb squad. He also became the first head of the drugs squad.
“In 1978, aged 38, he was appointed head of Warwickshire CID, the youngest Detective Chief Superintendent in the country— later becoming Deputy Chief Constable of the Greater Manchester Police in 1984, the biggest police force in the provinces. This is something that my dad worked so hard for and we, as a family, will always be immensely proud of his accomplishments.”
During his time as a police officer Mr Stalker travelled around the world studying terrorism and crime in Europe, the USA and South America, and on his return he worked for two years investigating an alleged state shoot to kill policy targeting republican paramilitaries.
However, he became the victim of a smear campaign over alleged links to a criminal gang, accusations he was completely cleared of.
After his retirement in 1987 he carved out a new career as a journalist and pursued his passion for writing, publishing an autobiography in 1988. He also enjoyed travelling the world with his wife.
Mrs Cartwright added: “I’d like to thank all those at Greater Manchester Police who are help- ing us through this incredibly difficult time and I think their support is reflective of the spirit of my dad and his commitment to policing throughout his life.
“My dad will be sorely missed by all lives he has touched both professionally and personally. We will always be proud of him and everything he achieved.”