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Data breach investigation into Minnie Merriman's medical records

Iona YoungBBC Scotland News
Police Scotland A young girl with a white top sits at a beach promenadePolice Scotland
Minnie Merriman was described by her family as "incredible, beautiful and brave"

NHS Tayside is investigating an alleged data breach into the medical records of a nine-year-old girl at the centre of a murder probe.

Minnie Merriman, from West Yorkshire, died at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee after being found seriously injured at an industrial estate in Arbroath.

Her father has appeared in court charged with her murder.

NHS Tayside said it was "investigating the circumstances" of the alleged breach that happened in a clinical area where staff access patient information.

A spokesperson added: "As a matter of governance, any data protection breach would be recorded and investigated by NHS Tayside and, where appropriate, reported to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

"It would not be appropriate for us to comment further on individual staffing matters."

A Minnie Mouse toy sitting among floral tributes
A Minnie Mouse toy was among the tributes left at the scene of the incident in Arbroath

Officers had been called to the Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath shortly after midnight on Monday.

Police said they were not looking for anyone else in connection with Minnie's death and the other members of the family - who were camping in the area - are being supported by specialist officers.

Her father Christopher Rice, 35, from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, made no plea during an appearance in private at Forfar Sheriff Court on Wednesday and was remanded in custody.

In a statement, Minnie's family said: "We are devastated with the loss of our beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo.

"Our family asks that our privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time."