EastEnders has confirmed that Amy Mitchell (Ellie Dadd) is being groomed by suspended detective Craig Ingram (Matthew James Bailey), a storyline developed with input from Barnardo's and End Violence Against Women.
Craig's manipulation begins after Amy's confession
Craig was introduced in July to investigate the attack on Joel Marshall (Max Murray). During interviews with teenage suspects, including Amy—daughter of colleague Jack Branning (Scott Maslen)—he learned she was responsible for the assault. Amy, believing him trustworthy, confided in him.
Craig considered reporting her confession but was removed from the case before deciding. A complaint against him revealed prior allegations, with DS Reynolds confirming an investigation into gross misconduct over 'engaging in inappropriate relationships with a female officer.' Craig hid this from Amy, claiming he'd kept her name out of it and urging her to come to him if needed. He later asked her for a drink and kissed her.
Storyline developed with expert guidance
When Jack discovered Craig had been texting Amy, Craig deflected by revealing Amy's attack on Joel, then continued meeting her in secret. Amy, unaware of his suspension, believes Craig is the only thing standing between her and serious consequences.
EastEnders boss Ben Wadey said: 'When telling a storyline like Amy's, we have a huge responsibility to highlight and raise awareness of the warning signs of grooming. We're grateful to be working with Barnardo's and End Violence Against Women to help us tell this story.'
Experts highlight subtle signs of grooming
Lynn Perry, Barnardo's Chief Executive, added: 'We welcomed the opportunity to provide expert advice on this storyline – which is a powerful reminder that there is no stereotypical victim or perpetrator of grooming. Young people from all walks of life can be targeted and fall victim to controlling behaviour – and many are often unaware that they are being groomed.'
'We hope this important storyline can highlight how subtle the signs of grooming can be and how it builds over time. To any viewers who recognise themselves in this story – who may be currently experiencing abuse or might have in the past – we hope this storyline shows you that the abuse was not your fault and we encourage you to seek support.'
Janaya Walker, Interim Director at End Violence Against Women Coalition, said: 'We're proud to have worked with the EastEnders team on this storyline about grooming and police-perpetrated abuse, which has been delivered with sensitivity and care. On-screen portrayals like this have the power to shift attitudes and increase understanding of abuse across society.'
'This storyline will help raise awareness about how those in a position of trust can abuse their power to target women and girls. We hope it can play an important role in making these experiences visible and help victims watching at home to understand that what happened to them was abuse, and to seek support.'
Over the coming months, Amy will be incrementally manipulated by Craig, who creates an environment where she believes he's the only person she can trust, leading her into danger.
