Exclusive by Keyan Milanian

kmilanian@thekmgroup.co.uk

The handling of a murder scene has sparked an internal investigation by Kent Police’s standards department.

It is not clear exactly what went wrong with the investigation into the killing of Antoine Denis, 66, but senior officers have referred the matter to the Professional Standards department.

Mr Denis was found dead in his flat in Copperfield House, Chatham, at around 10.45pm on Saturday, January 9. He died from a single stab wound.

Police spent almost three days at the site in New Road following the discovery of the body.

About 10 police vehicles were stationed outside the block of flats as the flat was cordoned off.

Mr Denis had been a tenant at Copperfield House for 12 years and lived alone.

A 69-year-old man from Chatham, was arrested on suspicion of murder, he has since been released without charge.

Another man, 43, also from Chatham, was arrested on January 14 and questioned for four days, but he has also been released without charge.

Around the same time officers arrested Kim Albone, 39, of Luton Road, Chatham, who was later charged with murder and was due to stand trial at the Old Bailey in July.

But a couple of weeks ago, she was released from prison and is no longer accused of the crime.

The decision to release her was made between the police and the Crown Prosecution Service.

A police spokesman said: “Kent Police are currently conducting an internal investigation into the initial management of the murder scene on New Road, Chatham.

“This has been referred to Kent Police’s Professional Standards Department so we are unable to comment further at this time. “

DCI Dave Chewter added: “Kent Police’s major crime unit are continuing to appeal for anyone who may have seen Mr Denis before or after December 27.

“We are following a number of lines of inquiry for our investigation, but are still keen for the public to help.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact 01634 884011 or CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.