Police launch fresh appeal for killer of mother-of-three 30 years after her death

Partially clothed body of Janine Downes found in roadside hedge in Shropshire in 1991

Photo issued by West Mercia Police of Janine Downes, as a senior detective has appealed for information to track down the killer who sexually assaulted and strangled her in 1991 (West Mercia Police/PA Wire)

Police have launched a fresh appeal for clues to trace a killer who sexually assaulted and strangled a mother-of-three in 1991.

The partially clothed body of 22-year-old Janine Downes was found in a hedge by the side of the A464 near the town of Shifnal in Shropshire on 2 February 1991.

In an appeal marking the 30th anniversary of her death, West Mercia Police said they were still unsure whether the sex worker from Wolverhamton was killed by a stranger or someone she knew.

Her death came less than five months after her friend Gail Whitehouse, also a sex worker, was killed. That case also remains unsolved.

“To date, despite a continuous and full investigation and several arrests being made, nobody has been charged with her murder and I desperately want to change that,” said Detective Inspector Lee Holehouse.

“Janine’s body was found dumped in a lay-by on the A464 just outside of Shifnal near Hatton. She had been dragged a short distance and concealed in a hedge."

He added: “We the police are still unclear as to what happened to Janine in the hours and days before her death. We are unclear as to whether it's likely that Janine was killed by a stranger or someone known to her.

”We do know that Janine was a sex worker working in the Wolverhampton area at around the time of her death, and would appeal to anybody who was within this circle at the time, or even now and who may have information, to contact us.

“Moreover, I appeal to anybody with any information which may lead to the identity of Janine's killer to get in touch in order that we can get the justice that Janine and her family deserve.

”Janine's family have lived without closure for far too long. If you know what happened or have any information which may help, please help us.“

Speaking 10 years ago, on the 20th anniversary of her death, her father, John Downes, said: ”Janine did what she did to make ends meet – to feed and clothe her children.

“She took to prostitution for her children – she just couldn't manage. I told her to stop and said we'd help her. She wouldn't harm anyone.”

Anyone with information to assist the inquiry is urged to pass information to the West Mercia Police website or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.