Jersey probe police chief 'may sue'

Deputy police chief Lenny Harper said the email, sent by health and social services minister Ben Shenton to Cabinet colleagues, is "childish and bizarre" and "unhelpful to the victims".

The email contains a personal attack on Mr Harper, where he is referred to as "Lenny Henry" and mocks the investigation, questioning whether the remains found so far are animal or human bones.

Police investigating alleged decades of abuse at former children's home Haut de la Garenne say more than 160 people claim they were physically and sexually abused since the 1960s.

Forensic teams searching the site have found human remains buried in a stairwell and a network of secret underground chambers where victims claim they were abused.

The email states: "My wife keeps referring to Lenny Harper as Lenny Henry - I don't think she's far wrong."

Mr Harper said the email was a "clear attempt to damage the inquiry" and he planned to seek legal advice with a view to a libel action.

He said: "I have seen the very personal attack on me by Mr Shenton. My view is that it is rather childish and bizarre.

"It is unhelpful to the victims and the investigation. It is also in marked contrast to the support given by the Chief Minister and the Home Affairs Minister and the magnificent response from the community."

Mr Shenton was unavailable for comment.