True Crime Series 24 Hours in Police Custody Returns with Harrowing Stalking Case
The critically acclaimed true crime documentary series 24 Hours in Police Custody is set to return to Channel 4 with a gripping episode titled The Murder Messages. This installment delves into the story of a couple, Megan and Daniel, who were subjected to relentless anonymous online harassment that escalated into stalking and death threats.
The case begins with Cambridgeshire Police receiving multiple harassing phone calls and hoax reports, including accusations of murder. One call led to a large-scale police response involving firearms officers and ambulances, but no evidence of any crime was found. Despite the apparent hoaxes, the threats persisted, adding layers of complexity to the investigation.
Detective Emily Richardson leads the case, navigating the challenges of identifying an anonymous perpetrator operating through social media and phone calls. “Normally, when you get given an investigation, you have a suspect," Richardson explains in the documentary. "This case was different — we didn’t know who we were dealing with or what they were capable of.”
The stalking escalated into invasions of the victims' personal and professional lives, further complicating the situation. Advanced techniques and insights from specialist officers, including Sergeant Tracy Williams, eventually brought a breakthrough in the investigation, redirecting its focus and revealing the truth behind the terrifying ordeal.
24 Hours in Police Custody: The Murder Messages promises to offer viewers an inside look at the complexities of modern-day policing and the challenges of tackling crimes in the digital age.
The episode will air on Channel 4 on Monday at 9pm.