'Verdict shows you cannot hide forever', says top cop

The police officer who led the investigation into the murder of six-year-old Rikki Neave has said the verdict shows ‘you cannot hide forever.’

Six year-old Rikki was killed by James Watson – who himself was aged just 13 at the time – in 1994.

But Watson escaped justice for nearly 30 years – until Thursday , when he was found guilty at the Old Bailey.

Speaking after the verdict was delivered, former Assistant Chief Constable Paul Fullwood, who was the senior lead for the investigation for Cambridgeshire police, said: “Today, we have finally secured justice for Rikki and his family, following an almost 30-year battle to find the truth.

“When we reviewed and reopened this case in 2015, we were committed to finding the person responsible for Rikki’s untimely death and ensuring they were

brought to justice.

"Following an intensive and detailed investigation, with several challenges and legal obstacles, we now know what happened to Rikki that day.

“The investigation team spent hours trawling through statements, visiting witnesses, and picking through every evidential opportunity to prepare for this case.

"We were supported by incredible experts, witnesses and specialists who have helped us discover who was responsible.

Mr Fullwood added: “Through close working with the Crown Prosecution Service we were able to put Watson, who was a child at the time, before the courts and today the jury have decided he is guilty of Rikki’s murder.

"For years he thought he had gotten away with this most horrendous crime but today’s result shows you cannot hide forever.

Mr Fullwood concluded: “In 1994 a six-year-old boy was robbed of his life; his parents lost a son and his sisters a brother. Nothing can take the pain of this heart-breaking case away.

"But I hope today’s verdict gives Rikki’s family the closure they deserve and the answers they have longed for.

“My thoughts are very much with them at this time.”

The 1994 investigation was a huge operation.