A series of 'stark failures' contributed to the murders of a mother and three children, a coroner says.
Terri Harris and her children John Bennett and Lacey Bennett were found dead along with Lacey's friend Connie Gent A series of "very stark" failures by the probation service contributed to the murders of a mother and three children, a coroner has ruled.
He recorded that Ms Harris, who was pregnant, her children and their friend Connie, were unlawfully killed. He stressed that Bendall bore "primary responsibility" for the "brutal and savage" murders, but there were "several very stark acts or omissions" by the probation service.Damien Bendall admitted four murders and the rape of 11-year-old Lacey
Weeks earlier, he was given a suspended sentence for arson, which included a curfew requirement at Ms Harris' home after being deemed a low risk to partners and children.