A woman who served as the family liaison officer for Karen Matthews following the disappearance of her nine-year-old daughter Shannon has shared insights into Matthews’ demeanor during the investigation. Shannon went missing from the Moorside Estate in Dewsbury on February 19, 2008, prompting a community effort to find her. Christine Freeman, a former family liaison officer with West Yorkshire Police, recounted her initial interactions with Karen, describing her as a grieving mother with visible signs of exhaustion.
Christine’s observations will be featured in the upcoming two-part Prime Video documentary “The Hunt for Shannon Matthews,” which delves into the 24-day abduction orchestrated by Karen and her boyfriend’s uncle, Michael Donovan, in a scheme to claim a £50,000 reward. In the documentary, Christine highlighted Karen’s perplexing statements to the police following Shannon’s disappearance, expressing concerns about Karen’s lack of awareness regarding potential dangers to her child.
Despite Christine’s attempts to prepare Karen for the worst, Karen appeared disconnected from the reality of the situation. During a press conference on Mother’s Day in March 2008, Karen made troubling remarks, suggesting a potential involvement of someone known to her and Shannon in the abduction. However, Karen later dismissed the notion, claiming she meant anyone who might be acquainted with them.
Shannon was discovered drugged and hidden in Donovan’s home on March 14, 2008, leading to Donovan’s arrest. Donovan, who passed away from cancer, faced charges of kidnapping and false imprisonment, while Karen eventually confessed to fabricating the incident. Both were convicted of kidnapping, false imprisonment, and perverting the course of justice, receiving eight-year prison sentences. Shannon was placed under emergency social services care with a new identity.
“The Hunt for Shannon Matthews” will premiere on Prime Video in the UK and Ireland on Sunday, August 17.