KIRKLEES ‘COLD CASES’ AMONG 56 BEING INVESTIGATED BY WEST YORKSHIRE POLICE

POLICE are currently investigating 56 unsolved murders – including that of a Birkby man who disappeared from home more than five years ago.

The Examiner revealed how Dariusz Michalowski’s disappearance in March, 2011 was being treated as murder even though a body has never been found.

Now a Freedom of Information request to West Yorkshire Police has found that the force is investigating 56 murders dating back to 1975.

Last year extra cash was allocated to employ more police staff to crack ‘cold cases.’

A force spokesman said: “West Yorkshire Police are currently undertaking a review to understand the outcomes of investigations into previous homicides.

“This includes review of all cases where suspects were charged but were subsequently acquitted in court. This may have been for numerous reasons and understanding this is crucial.

“These cases are currently classified as ‘Detected’ under previous crime outcome recording methods therefore any data provided is subject to change.”

Det Supt Jim Dunkerley added: “In common with other police forces, West Yorkshire Police has homicide cases which remain unsolved, most of which are historic in nature.

“West Yorkshire Police are continuing with an ongoing process to review non-recent undetected offences in line with national guidance around the handling of information, and in conjunction with the Home Office under the requirements of the Public Records Act.

“Should any new lines of enquiry be identified, they will be comprehensively pursued.”