DNA 'left in a police fridge for a year'

Forensic material linked to sexual offences dating back more than two years was also dumped in storage, an official report found.

Inspectors criticised "serious deficiencies" in the storage and management of DNA and forensic samples in custody suites run by Leicestershire Constabulary.

Inspectors also discovered a swab with a blood sample on it left in an open bag.

They called for urgent action to address the problems, including a referral to the forensic science regulator.

The report said: "DNA and forensic samples were not well managed and not always properly stored.

"DNA samples, taken for a range of offences including violent crimes and burglary, were found in freezers and in some cases in an overnight property store fridge.

"Some dated back over a year and had not been submitted to the national database or processed.

"Several forensic samples connected with sexual offences dating back to 2007 were also found, along with a swab with blood on it that was being kept in an unsealed bag."

The joint inspection was carried out by HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, Dame Anne Owers, and HM Chief Inspector of Police, Denis O'Connor.