FOI Heather MOOKS Records (253-2024/25)

Request

I would like to make an FOI request in partnership with now retired Detective Inspector [REDACTED INFORMATION].

We are working together on a documentary about Heather Mooks who poisoned her husband John Mooks in 2007.

We would like to submit an FOI for the case file relating to Heather Mooks case including any evidence that was presented to the court as part of the case that lead to her conviction.

Response

Extent and Result of Searches to Locate Information

To locate the information relevant to your request searches were conducted within North Yorkshire Police.  I can confirm that the information requested is held.

Decision

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 14 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (the Act) I have decided to refuse your request, as it has been deemed ‘vexatious’. Section 1(1) does not oblige a public authority to comply with a request for information if the request is vexatious, and no public interest test is required.

The ICO guidance on dealing with vexatious requests clarifies that section 14 can be considered

where the request is likely to cause a disproportionate or unjustified level of disruption, irritation, burden or distress.

Rationale for decision

The Freedom of Information (FOI) Act allows individuals to seek access to official information in order to gain transparency and accountability from public bodies. The expectation is that individuals will use this right responsibly and proportionately.

The ICO guidance sets out a number of indicators which have been reviewed and it has been determined that your request meets the following vexatious indicators:

A single request taken in isolation, may be vexatious solely on the grounds of burden. That is, where complying with the request would place a grossly oppressive burden on your resources which outweighs any value or serious purpose the request may have.

I note that the case file requested has over 2000 documents. This would require a page-by-page manual review to determine the suitability of each document for disclosure. This would place an excessive burden on the force.

Pursuant to Section 17(5) of the Freedom of Information Act this letter acts as a Refusal Notice.