This just in from the Police, in their own words. Oor thoughts go out to Damien’s friends and family at this very difficult time. Ed
Police investigating the possible murder of missing Isle of Wight teenager Damien Nettles are starting a new search for his body.
Hampshire Constabulary sealed off an area of marshland next to the Newport-Cowes cycleway and footpath in the Stag Lane area of Newport earlier this morning (Thursday, May 12, 2011).
Specialist police officers will be using a range of techniques and technology to examine the ground for human remains over the next few days.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Dave Powell of Hampshire Constabulary’s Major Crime Department said: “We are responding to information received about the possible whereabouts of Damien Nettles’ body. The area we’re now searching was identified after the police received more information about what could have happened to Damien after his disappearance in November 1996. We’re not in a position to discuss the details because it is important for the police to protect how they gather sensitive information.
“There have been false and malicious allegations about possible burial sites for Damien’s body over the past 14 years. Such unfounded speculation has upset the Nettles family and wasted police time and resources. Therefore, careful consideration has been given to our decision to examine this marshland. It is important for the community to keep expectations for this search in perspective. We cannot guarantee that anything will be found at this stage.”
