Had he been convicted, he would have been kept under close supervision. But, instead, he was approved to work as a school caretaker and murdered Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in August 2002.

Police were aware that he had had a number of sexual relationships with underage girls and that he was the subject of nine allegations of rape and indecent assault. He had been officially identified as a serial sex attacker.

The Bichard inquiry’s report into the schoolgirls’ murders strongly criticised police in Cambridgeshire and Humberside. It found that they had failed to share evidence and that they had deleted vital files that highlighted the risks posed by Huntley.

Huntley’s history showed a deeply troubled man. He had a history of violence against women, such as his former wife, Claire Evans, and his former girlfriend, Maxine Carr.

He had been the subject of psychological or physical abuse, having been the victim of bullying at school, and lacked empathy.

In 1993, his parents separated and his mother became involved with a female security guard. Weeks after he married, his bride left him for his brother. Former friends have said that he strangled a puppy.

Huntley’s landlord described him as smooth and charming. However, he was said to have been possessive and controlling of his former wife and Carr.

As the police hunt for Holly and Jessica gripped the country, he granted interviews to the media.

THEY ALL SLIPPED OFF THE RADAR

Richard Baker

DJ, convicted of 12 counts of rape and assault.

History of violence towards women

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