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Ex police 'thwarted' Jersey probe

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The man leading the investigation into alleged abuse at a former children's home in Jersey says retired officers have tried to obstruct the inquiry.

Deputy Chief Officer Lenny Harper told the BBC some had attempted to cover up their own failure to investigate complaints of child abuse.

He said his priority remained the alleged victims, but he would also look into complaints against the police.

More than 100 people claim to have been abused there in the 1970s and 1980s.

Up to 25 people are suspected of having taken part in sexual and physical assaults at the Haut de la Garenne children's home dating back to the 1960s.

The police investigation, which began covertly in 2006, led to the discovery of part of a child's skull last month in a stairwell at the back of the building.

The remains are thought to date from the early 1980s. Police have not said whether they are male or female.

The children's home closed in 1986 and was later converted into a youth hostel.

2008 Mar 10