THE Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has launched a probe into the investigation surrounding the disappearance of teenager Jayden Parkinson.

The 17-year-old from Oxford was reported missing in the early hours of Wednesday, December 4, and her body was discovered in a grave at Great Western Cemetery next to All Saints Church, Didcot, two weeks later.

An initial post-mortem proved inconclusive but police confirmed today [4] the cause of death is consistent with pressure to the neck.

The IPCC has launched an investigation into the response by Thames Valley Police officers to the missing person report.

Associate Commissioner Guido Liguori said: “Our investigation is examining whether the individual and collective decisions made by police officers and staff and the related actions were appropriate and proportionate in the circumstances.

This is a desperately sad case where a teenage girl has lost her life. Our investigators have met with Jayden’s family to explain our role and investigation.

“I know my condolences will be of little comfort to them as they continue to grieve over their loss.”

Ben Blakeley was arrested at his Christchurch Road home in Reading in December and charged with murder and perverting the course of justice. He has been remanded in custody to appear at Oxford Crown Court on Monday, March 17.

Associate Commissioner Liguori said: “I am mindful that a murder investigation is continuing and therefore we must be cautious so as not to interfere with the ongoing criminal proceedings.”