Stratford
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Police miss vital clue - the rotting body
POLICE have admitted missing a decomposing body during a search of a Stratford flat three months ago.
The human remains were found on Friday 11 months after neighbours first told the council they were worried about the man who lived there.
Now questions are being asked about how the body was not discovered earlier.
The man is believed to be Malcolm Dixon, 56, the long-term resident of 21 Janson Close, whom neighbours have not seen for over a year.
A police spokeswoman said yesterday that Mr Dixon was reported missing on September 6 and officers started investigating.
She said: "It is with regret that they did not discover the body during the visit to his home that day.
"An internal review into this part of the investigation is being carried out to see if lessons can be learned and what action, if any, needs to be taken."
Council workers are believed to have entered the property on more than one occasion. A window and the door lock were replaced on two separate visits, say neighbours.
Janson Close residents say they have contacted the council on numerous occasions since last December, reporting that a strong smell was emanating from the flat and windows had been left wide open.
A council spokeswoman said: "We are conducting a thorough investigation into the matter with police and other agencies."
Mr Dixon, who suffered from diabetes, was known as a heavy drinker who spent long periods on his own.
Neighbours Dave and Sandra Sims said they were shocked but not surprised at developments as they suspected something was wrong as early as last Christmas.
Mrs Sims said: "We told the council there was a problem but they just didn't seem interested."
The flat's entrance has been replaced with a iron security door and a foul odour still pervades throughout the landing and stairwells.
12:32pm Monday 6th December 2004
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