Joanne Mackel seeks answers about her mother's murder

Joanne Mackel, 57, has dedicated her life to uncovering the truth about her mother, Ann Law, who disappeared in 1973 when Joanne was just five years old. Joanne's father, Gilbert Law, had a history of violence and was charged with her mother's murder after asking his son to help him "dig up your mam." The case was thrown out, leaving Joanne with lasting questions. Joanne believes the initial police investigation was poorly managed, leading to decades of uncertainty about her mother's fate. She joined Northumbria Police as a rookie officer, driven by the desire to find answers. Despite her efforts, the case remains the longest-running missing person investigation in the area. Ann Law was last seen during a violent incident at home. Gilbert, diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, had already attempted to harm Ann before her disappearance. Joanne recalls the troubling atmosphere of her childhood and the lack of police action during her mother's case. When Gilbert attempted to involve his son Trevor in finding their mother, it led to renewed police interest in the case. However, Gilbert's subsequent trials ended with no convictions due to his mental health status. In 2010, efforts were made to excavate after a possible lead was identified, but the results were inconclusive. Joanne continues to seek justice for her mother while reflecting on her experiences as a police officer. She emphasizes the importance of addressing domestic violence and provides resources for those affected. Joanne has shared her story in a podcast titled "Dig Up Your Mam," allowing listeners to understand her family's struggles and the impact of the unresolved case.