Site is accused of hindering probe into teen murder
FACEBOOK has been accused of frustrating police by failing to hand over the password of the suspected murderer of a 13-year-old girl.
The social media company was asked by Hampshire Police to open the account of Stephen- Alan Nicholson in the early stages of its murder investigation.
But two weeks after Lucy McHugh was stabbed to death, the force is still ‘awaiting a response’.
Nicholson, 24, was arrested on suspicion of murder after her body was found in woods by a sports centre. The carer is also accused of engaging in sexual activity with her before her death.
Detectives asked Nicholson to open his Facebook account so they could see if he had been in communication with her. He allegedly refused and was charged with failing to provide police with his password.
Hampshire Police then asked Facebook for its help, but still do not have the password. Former Flying Squad chief John O’Connor said: ‘I think it’s outrageous. The attitude of Facebook is going to require a response which will be a change in the law.’ He added: The fact they don’t assist police in serious investigations is reprehensible.’ Lucy was last seen on the morning of July 25 when she left her home in Southampton to visit a friend.
Police said she died of multiple stab wounds and are appealing for help in finding the murder weapon.
Nicholson is in custody and due before Southampton Crown Court on August 31 for failing to provide the Facebook password. He has not been charged with murder.
A Facebook spokesman said: ‘We are working directly with Hampshire Police on this case.’