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Wiltshire Police officers and staff alongside members of the public have been recognised for their bravery, courage, and dedication in the latest Wiltshire Police Force Awards ceremony.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper welcomed The Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire Mrs Sarah Troughton, the High Sheriff of Wiltshire Dr Olivia Chapple OBE and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson at the event in The Corn Exchange in Devizes on Thursday 7 November.
Officers, staff, and members of the public attended the ceremony, alongside their guests, to celebrate careers and contributions that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to our communities – including saving lives.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: “This was a wonderful evening celebrating the incredible achievements of Wiltshire Police officers, staff and volunteers along with members of our community.
“I have had the honour of witnessing first-hand the tireless efforts, care and professionalism displayed by our teams and our communities, who have selflessly put the needs of others ahead of themselves.
“Policing is a privilege, that demands the highest standards of public service, integrity and compassion. Our communities deserve nothing less.
“We should also recognise that many of these achievements would not be possible without the encouragement, strength and support from family members and friends.
“To all of the award recipients, well done and thank you.”
The following awards were presented throughout the evening:
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: "The focus of these awards is to recognise and celebrate the outstanding efforts of our personnel, who have gone beyond the call of duty to ensure the safety of Wiltshire's residents.
"Through hearing the stories of our officers, staff, volunteers and members of the public, it's clear that they risked their personal safety and made extraordinary efforts to uphold the core values of public service and protection that underpin the work of Wiltshire Police.
"The standards highlighted by them, serve as a benchmark for all of us.
"It is our responsibility to complement their individual achievements with consistent excellence across the Force and ensure that we all work towards the common goal of making Wiltshire Police one of the best performing forces in the country."
Wiltshire Police officers and staff alongside members of the public have been recognised for their bravery, courage, and dedication in the latest Wiltshire Police Force Awards ceremony.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper welcomed The Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire Mrs Sarah Troughton, the High Sheriff of Wiltshire Dr Olivia Chapple OBE and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson at the event in The Corn Exchange in Devizes on Thursday 7 November.
Officers, staff, and members of the public attended the ceremony, alongside their guests, to celebrate careers and contributions that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to our communities – including saving lives.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: “This was a wonderful evening celebrating the incredible achievements of Wiltshire Police officers, staff and volunteers along with members of our community.
“I have had the honour of witnessing first-hand the tireless efforts, care and professionalism displayed by our teams and our communities, who have selflessly put the needs of others ahead of themselves.
“Policing is a privilege, that demands the highest standards of public service, integrity and compassion. Our communities deserve nothing less.
“We should also recognise that many of these achievements would not be possible without the encouragement, strength and support from family members and friends.
“To all of the award recipients, well done and thank you.”
The following awards were presented throughout the evening:
• Nineteen Long Service Awards
• Two Chief Constable’s Certificate of Recognition for Members of the Public
• Two Chief Constable’s Commendation
• Two Outstanding Teamwork Award
• One PCC Volunteer of the Year
• One PCC Special Constable of the Year
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: "The focus of these awards is to recognise and celebrate the outstanding efforts of our personnel, who have gone beyond the call of duty to ensure the safety of Wiltshire's residents.
"Through hearing the stories of our officers, staff, volunteers and members of the public, it's clear that they risked their personal safety and made extraordinary efforts to uphold the core values of public service and protection that underpin the work of Wiltshire Police.
"The standards highlighted by them, serve as a benchmark for all of us.
"It is our responsibility to complement their individual achievements with consistent excellence across the Force and ensure that we all work towards the common goal of making Wiltshire Police one of the best performing forces in the country."
Long Service - Police Constable (Acting Police Sergeant) Michelle Barratt
Police Constable Michelle Barratt (2860) is awarded her long service award for dedicating 14 years to Greater Manchester Police and seven years to Wiltshire Police. Michelle transferred to Wiltshire Police in July 2017 where she was placed in Amesbury on Response.
Michelle spent time on Response and after a spell of sickness was placed on restricted duties with what is now known as the Community Investigation Team. In 2023, Michelle had a three-month attachment to the Sentinel Team, a proactive team of investigators and support staff who conduct proactive led investigations into child sexual exploitation, adult sexual exploitation, modern slavery and human trafficking.
In January 2024, she worked on Operation Samsun, an internal PSD investigation and in May 2024, Michelle joined the Domestic Abuse Support Team where she remains to date.
Michelle shares two standout moments of her career. One where she helped save a deaf victim from a forced marriage. The victim's family had flights booked to Pakistan and was holding her passport against her will. Michelle was able to communicate with the victim through lip reading and was able to negotiate the passport back for her and then helped her to the safety away from her partner.
Her second highlight was when she was first to help a colleague who was struggling to apprehend a drunk driver who was fighting him. Michelle helped to secure and arrest the suspect. Her colleague still mentions it to this day, and it raises a smile that she was his knight in shining hi-vis!
Michelle’s dedication to the Force, her colleagues and our communities shows an exemplary performance within policing. She continues to display her passion for helping others and protecting those most vulnerable.
Thank you for your service and congratulations on your Long Service Award.
Long Service - Detective Sergeant Claire Watts
Detective Sergeant Claire Watts began her career as a police constable on response in Swindon in September 2003.
After four years, Claire played a key role in establishing the Volume Crime Unit and became a Police Development Unit Officer, assisting with the training of new officers.
Throughout her career, Claire has been involved in several high-profile and significant operations, including investigations into child abuse within boarding schools, the Dr. Baines sexual assault case, and Wiltshire’s first paedophile hunter group case.
Her career has been marked by a range of diverse and challenging roles. She became a Detective in the Burglary Team and spent five years in the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). She was later promoted to Detective Sergeant within the Intelligence Department, all while balancing the demands of raising a young family. These accomplishments are career highlights for Claire, who is proud to have achieved them with the support of her husband and colleagues.
Claire’s unwavering dedication to her cases and commitment to achieving results, even in the most difficult circumstances, exemplifies excellent performance in policing. She has provided outstanding service to the communities of Wiltshire and Swindon.
Thank you for your service, and congratulations on receiving the Long Service Award.
Long Service – Police Constable Paul Bezzant
Police Constable Paul Bezzant (1899) first joined Wiltshire Police in 2004 as a Swindon Response Officer.
After dedicating seven years to response duties, Paul was selected for a specialised unit focused on burglary offences. While awaiting his new assignment, he took on the temporary role of Beat Manager for Swindon Town Centre, a job he found encapsulated everything he thought a police officer should be.
Throughout his career, Paul has engaged in various support roles, including Public Order, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Defence, Counter Terrorism Search, and most recently, being a Police Liaison Officer.
Paul expresses deep gratitude to Inspector Madge Lynch (now retired), who recognised his potential and placed him in his current position. He recalls her encouragement, affirming that he had made the right choice and that this role was a better fit than his previous one. Under her guidance, along with the support of other influential officers, Paul learned the true value of community policing. He embraced the importance of taking action, making informed decisions, and driving positive results within his community.
Paul, thank you for your exemplary service, and congratulations on receiving the Long Service Award.
Long Service - Police Constable Andrew Plenderleith
Police Constable Andrew Plenderleith (1921) is awarded the Long Service Award in recognition of his 20 years of dedicated service to Wiltshire Police. He began his career in 2004 as a member of Response Team Five in Swindon.
After six years, Andrew moved to the Local Crime Team in Swindon, where he was able to apply both his response experience and his knowledge of the diverse communities in the Swindon area.
In 2015, Andrew returned to Swindon Response, joining Team Four. After another seven years of service, he transferred to the Swindon Volume Crime Team, where he continues to serve today. His work in this role enhances the service provided to victims of crime.
Throughout his career, Andrew has demonstrated versatility, dedication, and a commitment to serving the Swindon community. His proactive policing over two decades has made a significant contribution to improving public safety.
Thank you for your service and congratulations on your Long Service Award.
Long Service Award – Detective Superintendent Conway Duncan
Detective Superintendent Conway Duncan began his journey with Wiltshire Police in March 2004 as a police constable on response in Swindon. He then moved to Neighbourhoods, where he was promoted to Sergeant.
Conway then had the opportunity to serve as Acting Inspector for His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, a role he held with great enthusiasm and dedication. Following this, he was offered the position of Staff Officer, which allowed him to advance his application for the High Potential Development Scheme. He considers this a valuable career highlight that has opened many doors for him professionally.
His experience is evident in various roles, including positions in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the Professional Standards Department (PSD), the Force Investigative Model (FIM), and Tri-Force. He also undertook a professional placement with Nationwide Building Society.
Conway has consistently demonstrated his dedication to the force by taking on new challenges. He credits former Chief Constable Elizabeth Neville and now-retired Superintendent Gavin Williams for his initial progress. Their support has profoundly influenced him throughout his career.
Conway has since taken on key roles within Wiltshire Police, such as Head of Organisational Development and Change, Head of Crime Standards and Justice, and Head of Contact Management and Special Ops. His dedication, care for the public, and the support of his colleagues have led him to his current position as Head of Crime Standards and Justice.
Thank you for your service and congratulations on your Long Service Award.
Long Service – Police Constable Emily Thomas
Police Constable Emily Thomas joined Wiltshire Police in March 2004 as a Response Officer in Trowbridge. After four years, driven by a deep desire to serve the countryside, Emily transitioned to rural policing, inspired by her upbringing in a village and the mentorship of PC Mark Newberry.
During her early years, Emily formed a good working relationship with PC Newberry and she considers this a pivotal period in her career. Emily fondly recalls PC Newberry’s valuable knowledge and often humorous advice. Following Mark’s retirement in 2008, Emily stepped into his role, embracing the challenge of “filling his enormous boots” for the next eight years.
In 2009, Emily completed her wildlife training in Essex, fuelling her passion for investigating animal-related cases. In 2010, she became the Neighbourhood Policing Team manager in Melksham. Although the team was disbanded after six years, Emily cherished the lasting friendships formed during this time.
Returning to Trowbridge, Emily found support from Inspector Andy Fee, who encouraged her commitment to wildlife crime. With the opportunity to collaborate with PC Marc Jackson, Emily tackled cases across various areas, even earning raised eyebrows when she reported an arrest for stealing snowdrops on Salisbury Plain.
In 2017, with backing from Inspector Fee and Sergeant Geoff Rice, Emily joined the Rural Crime Team. This role has brought both challenges and political complexities, yet Emily describes it as the most satisfying period of her career.
Emily's hard work and dedication have enabled her to serve the rural communities of Wiltshire with compassion and integrity.
Thank you for your service and congratulations on your Long Service Award.
Long service award – Detective Constable David Topp
Detective Constable David Topp (1935) joined Wiltshire Police in March 2004 where he attended the last of the 15-week training courses at Moreton in Marsh Training College before joining the Tutor Unit in Salisbury City Centre. He remained in the city as a response officer.
In 2008, David moved to the Salisbury Crime Investigation Department (CID), where he completed his Detective qualifications. For the past eight years, he has been part of the Major Crime Investigation Team.
Throughout his career with Wiltshire Police, David has worked on numerous high-profile cases, including those involving murder, manslaughter, and grievous bodily harm (GBH). A career highlight for David was securing the conviction and extradition of Moses Tomas from the USA for a serious assault in Salisbury City Centre while working in CID.
David has also served as the case officer for Operations Meadow, Micro, Galaxy, and Mantle 2.
Thank you for your service and dedication to keeping the public of Wiltshire safe. Your actions are the embodiment of the Force values and are something to be immensely proud of. Congratulations on your long service award.
Long Service – Detective Constable Amanda Lord
Detective Constable Amanda Lord (1940) began her career in May 2004, working on response in Swindon. This experience gave her valuable skills and insight into the diverse ways people live their lives and the significant impact police attendance can make.
Amanda then transitioned to a neighbourhood policing area known for being historically disadvantaged, where she encountered different challenges. Working within this community deepened her desire to take on a more specialised role, leading to an attachment with the Child Protection Team. After completing her training with the unit, she achieved Detective Constable accreditation, and became a Child Protection Officer.
A career highlight for Amanda was earning the trust of a frightened child, enabling them to feel safe enough to share their experiences with her. She is proud and in awe of the brave young people who, against all odds, find the strength to speak out.
Amanda would like to thank her family for their support and understanding throughout her career. She joined the police when her sons were young and balancing the demands of a young family with a busy career was challenging. Determined to set a positive example, she aimed to show her children that sometimes sacrifices are necessary to meet commitments and help others when we can. She hopes to have made them proud.
Amanda’s unwavering commitment to victims and her dedication to seeking justice, even in the most difficult cases, embody the highest values of policing. Her career has been marked by exceptional service to the communities of Wiltshire.
Congratulations on your Long Service Award.
Long Service - Detective Sergeant Darren Penny
Detective Sergeant Darren Penny (1954) began his policing career as a Beat Officer in Tidworth. After two years, he moved to Amesbury, where he was promoted to Community Beat Manager.
Darren later transferred to Salisbury, working in Response, before spending a year with the South Priority Crime Team. In 2015, he joined the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) in Salisbury, where he trained to become a Detective. Three years later, he moved to the Public Protection Department (PPD), a role he considers a career highlight as it was complex but very rewarding.
In 2020, he was promoted to Sergeant and returned to Amesbury to work in Response. He then transitioned to Operation Fortitude, investigating Acquisitive Crime. Today, DS Penny serves as a Detective Sergeant in the Digital Investigations and Intelligence Unit (DIIU).
Darren wishes to acknowledge the late Detective Sergeant Nigel Porter, who was a key figure in his career. Nigel’s support and guidance helped shape Darren into the dedicated professional he is today.
Darren’s outstanding professionalism and commitment to every role, including his current position in combating cybercrime, have been essential in protecting communities across Wiltshire.
Thank you for your service and congratulations on your Long Service Award.
Long Service – Inspector Gavin Nix
Inspector Gavin Nix joined Gwent Police in February 2004, before transferring to Wiltshire Police in May 2007.
His first role in Wiltshire Police was a Chippenham Response Officer, before he was promoted to Sergeant in 2012.
Gavin worked as a Swindon Response Sergeant between 2012 and 2014, moving to Custody Sergeant in Swindon and Melksham for the following two years before moving to Devizes as a Community Policing Team Sergeant in 2016.
After two years as Acting Inspector, Gavin became the Protest Sergeant working on the A303 Stonehenge tunnel project, Operation Angelus. He was promoted to Inspector in the same team. In October 2024, Gavin went back to being a Response Duty Inspector.
This is not an exclusive list of roles over Gavin’s long career, as he is also the Deputy Force Lead for Negotiators and the Operational Force Lead for Field Impairment Tests (FIT). He has also gained many skills and experience through these roles.
A highlight of Gavin’s career was when he represented Wiltshire at the Force Bravery Awards in 2021 following an incident in Trowbridge. Officers, including Gavin, entered a block of flats which was on fire to help the people trapped inside escape. The team were also able to arrest the arson suspect in the process.
There have been many people Gavin has thoroughly enjoyed working with and learned lots from. These include now retired, Sergeant Al Webb, Inspector Liam Winstone, Inspector Chris Martin, Chief Inspector Keith Ewart and PC Al Wilkinson. He also acknowledges PC Chris Miller and PC Mat Jacobs for working hard and being reliable and trusted colleagues.
Thank you for your service and dedication to keeping the public of Wiltshire safe.
Congratulations on your achievements and your Long Service Award.
Long Service – Hayley Williams
Hayley Williams joined Wiltshire Police in 2004 as a Contact Centre Operator in the Crime and Communications Centre (CCC).
Five years later, she joined the Local Crime Team working as an Investigator at Gablecross Station in Swindon before transferring to Melksham.
In 2018, Wiltshire Police launched the Digital Investigations and Intelligence Unit (DIIU), and during this time, Hayley became a Digital Media Investigator. This was a career highlight for Hayley, as she played a large part in moulding Wiltshire Police’s response to dealing with digital investigations.
In 2022, Hayley was successful in her application for Strategic Support Officer within the Public Protection Department, where she currently works alongside Detective Superintendent Angela Shipp, helping to protect the most vulnerable in communities across Wiltshire and Swindon.
Hayley is thankful to her husband Leighton for the push out of her comfort zone to develop her career, and mum Annette for her ongoing support outside of the workplace.
Thank you for your service and congratulations on your Long Service Award.
Long Service – Tracy Ince
Tracy Ince joined Wiltshire Police in January 2004 in Human Resources (HR) as an Attendance Management Officer.
Over her career, she has been redeployed to different departments, including the Crime Management Unit in 2007, the Enquiry Office for Trowbridge, Melksham, and Salisbury in 2017, and the Neighbourhood Harm Reduction Unit (NHRU) in 2020, where she currently works as a Watch Scheme Coordinator.
During her various roles with the Force, Tracy has gained experience in injury claims, statistics, Niche reviews, victim satisfaction referrals, and forensic submissions. She has also coordinated four criminal investigation departments, overseeing around 120 staff members.
Notable moments during her career include numerous community engagement events, particularly the recent Girl Guides Police Challenge Day, where 100 guides attended HQ to complete three exercises to earn their Police Challenge Badge.
Tracy also fondly reflects on the time when a Channel 4 film crew shadowed the Force for three months for the documentary "999: What’s Your Emergency?"
She is also immensely proud of furthering her career in 2018 by gaining a Diploma in Business.
Tracy recognises the NHRU as an amazing department to work for and acknowledges her colleagues for their support. She feels that Wiltshire Police have always looked after her and she enjoys being part of the police family.
Thank you, Tracy for your hard work and continued commitment to your role. And congratulations on your Long Service Award.
Long Service – Louise Earle
Louise Earle initially joined Wiltshire Police in 2003 on an unpaid six-month work placement in the Criminal Justice Unit (CJU) as part of her National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ). She was required to work one day a week and after a few months asked if she could work a second day with the answer being a resounding yes. Louise worked on the collision enquiries desk and fell in love with the role – confirming to her that this was what she wanted to do as a career.
The following year, Louise was offered a permanent position in the Courts Team within the CJU, a role she worked in for nine years.
Louise then moved into the Evidential Property Department, working with exhibits and evidence. She had a real passion for this business area and took a huge amount of personal responsibility and pride in the work she did.
In 2023, Louise became the Legacy Review Supervisor and Senior Decision Maker, managing a team of six who review archived evidence to determine whether items are still required or if they can be disposed of. She thoroughly enjoys this new role.
A career highlight for Louise was when a film crew attended Melksham Police Station and videoed her as part of a documentary focusing on her property store which housed exhibits relating to a human trafficking case.
Louise credits her success in her supervisory position to her line manager Paula Shea. Paula has included Louise in meetings and projects to gain experience of working in a managerial role.
Thank you for the commitment, hard work and dedication you have shown to your role and congratulations on your Long Service Award.
Long Service – Special Constable Shane Wheeler
Section Leader Special Constable Shane Wheeler began his training in November 2009 and went on to work with the Devizes Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) from June 2010.
PC Julie Mason made him feel part of the team and provided all the initial support required. Unfortunately, during his fourth shift, Shane was injured in a road traffic collision involving a drunk driver. One year on, Shane returned determined to start his service in the police again – right from scratch.
On his return, he found that the Force had moved to a new hub system, and he struggled with this change and even considered giving up. However, Special Inspector Guy Sanders asked Shane to join a team of Special Constables in Devizes, where his confidence grew, and he became close to this team.
In 2017, Shane joined the newly formed Specials Road Safety Unit (SRSU), which later integrated into the Roads Policing Unit (RPU). Sergeant Will Ayres welcomed Shane into the unit and helped develop and improve his skills.
Shane credits his successful career to his wife Diane, who has supported both his full-time job and his voluntary work within Wiltshire Police over the past 15 years. Diane has been there throughout. From him being late home from duty, being tired after the working week and then doing a 12-hour police shift on his day off, constantly pointing out offences on every road trip, and always watching TV police programmes.
Shane, thank you for your commitment, hard work, and dedication to your role.
Chief Constable’s Certificate of Recognition for Members of the Public Award – Louise Terry
Louise Terry is awarded the Chief Constable’s Certificate of Recognition for Members of the Public for her efforts to help a cyclist who was hit on the A4 between Avebury and Calne.
On the evening of 21 April 2024, Louise and her daughter followed a van that carelessly struck a cyclist, leaving him injured on the road.
Without hesitation, she pulled over and went to the cyclist’s aid, immediately beginning CPR. While on the phone with the ambulance service, she performed chest compressions and attempted resuscitation.
Despite her best efforts and the attendance of paramedics, the cyclist was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. The van driver was arrested and later charged with causing death by careless driving. Although the CPR was unsuccessful, Louise’s actions went beyond expectations. She at least gave the cyclist a chance of survival.
Louise, your actions exemplify the highest standards of civic responsibility, deserving of our utmost admiration and recognition. Thank you and congratulations on your award.
Chief Constable’s Certificate of Recognition for Members of the Public Award –Ashton McCabe
Ashton McCabe is awarded the Chief Constable’s Certificate of Recognition for Members of the Public for his invaluable actions during a critical incident on Sidmouth Street in Devizes on 29 June 2024.
When a male was stabbed, Ashton quickly intervened, providing emergency first aid by applying pressure to the victim's neck wound. He also played a crucial role in helping to apprehend the suspect by restraining the suspect's legs while officers struggled to detain him.
Additionally, Ashton showed remarkable initiative by directing bystanders to block traffic and clear the area, ensuring the officers could respond safely.
Throughout this challenging incident, Ashton remained calm and provided essential assistance to the responding officers.
Thank you for your courage and vital support to the emergency services that day. Congratulations on receiving the Chief Constable’s Certificate of Recognition for Members of the Public.
Chief Constable Commendation – Police Constable Nicola Crabbe
On the morning of Tuesday 21 May 2024, Police Constable Nicola Crabbe showed extraordinary courage and dedication to duty by responding to a serious emergency.
A member of the public had called 999 reporting that they thought they’d spotted a body floating body in the Kennet and Avon Canal in Devizes.
At the time Nicola and PCSO Kelly Watts from Devizes Neighbourhood Policing Team were on patrol and attended the location. On arrival, Nicola immediately identified that there was indeed a person in the canal, face down in the water.
Without hesitation or consideration for her own safety, Nicola jumped into the canal and swam to the woman and then pulled her along in cold, murky water to the nearby bank. Nicola then had to, with some difficultly, lift the unconscious woman out of canal water.
Both Nicola and Kelly then started CPR.
It transpired that the woman had suffered a medical episode whilst cycling on the canal path and had fallen into the water. It was estimated that she had been face down in the canal for around 20 minutes, and despite best attempts of the officers and then medical staff who arrived soon afterwards the woman died later that day in hospital surrounded by her close family.
Although an extremely tragic situation and outcome, the actions taken by Nicola on that day allowed for a distraught family to say goodbye to their loved one.
Nicola acted without thinking about her own safety, in fact, she very much put the concerns for the public above her own. Her actions were nothing but courageous.
Nicola, thank you for your courage, dedication and quick thinking, and congratulations on your much deserved Chief Constable Commendation.
Chief Constable’s Commendation – Police Constable Nicola Crabbe and Police Community Support Officer Kelly Watts
On the afternoon of 29 June 2024, Police Constable Nicola Crabbe and Police Community Support Officer Kelly Watts displayed incredible bravery in responding to what was, at the time, an unknown incident involving two males on Sidmouth Street in Devizes.
Three calls were made by different members of the public, reporting that one male was being chased by another through Devizes town centre. The male being chased was reported to be bleeding from the head, but no further details were provided about the injury or whether either individual was armed.
PC Crabbe and PCSO Watts were the first to arrive on the scene. Without hesitation or regard for their own safety, they approached the men and separated them. Unbeknownst to the officers, the suspect had already stabbed the victim approximately three times, twice in the neck.
With the assistance of PCSO Watts, PC Crabbe attempted to restrain the suspect and retrieve the knife. The pair bravely struggled with the suspect, managing to restrain him with help from a member of the public. Despite the suspect grabbing PC Crabbe’s hair and assaulting her, she maintained control until additional officers arrived. PCSO Watts’ actions went far beyond what is expected of a Police Community Support Officer.
PC Crabbe and PCSO Watts’ quick intervention and courage in an uncertain and dangerous situation resulted in the apprehension of an offender for attempted murder and saved the victim’s life.
Both officers demonstrated immense bravery in dealing with the suspect, upholding the law, and protecting the public. Thank you for your service and congratulations on your award.
Chief Constable’s Outstanding Teamwork Award – Operation Glendale
Operation Glendale was a complex and challenging murder investigation that attracted significant public interest due to the young ages of those involved and the brutal nature of the crime. Despite early arrests, the dedicated team remained determined to uncover the truth and ensure justice was served for the victim, Owen Dunn, who was fatally stabbed to the heart.
Through exceptional teamwork, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to seeking the truth, the investigation team successfully identified the offenders and secured overwhelming evidence against them. Their efforts culminated in a three-week Crown Court trial, where two individuals were found guilty of murder by a unanimous jury verdict and received life sentences.
We recognise the outstanding contributions of those who played pivotal roles in this successful investigation and prosecution.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker, Detective Sergeant Louise Kuklinski (1896), Detective Constable Aaron Rowe , Detective Constable Robin Barratt , Detective Constable Emma Rossiter, Detective Constable Sharon Rosier, Major Crime Investigating Officer Emma Millarvie, Intelligence Analyst Frances Warren and Police Sergeant Danny Salmon on behalf of Neighbourhood Policing Teams.
The investigation's success would not have been possible without the determination, dedication, and professionalism of these individuals. They demonstrated the highest levels of public service, impartiality and integrity throughout the challenges faced and always kept the victim and their family at the forefront.
Their collective efforts not only brought the offenders to justice but also provided closure and support to the victim's family during their most difficult time. The teamwork, attention to detail, and commitment displayed by all involved, serve as an inspiration to us all.
Chief Constable’s Outstanding Teamwork Award - PC Chahida Boutarfas, PC Shannon Stephenson, PC Sam Shellard, PC Christopher Marshall, PC Joshua Hammond, PC Aga Markiewicz, PC Reece Follett, PC Millie Hudson, PC Lilianna Illston-Baggs, PC Thomas Thatcher, PC Guy Hamel, PC Sean Surgey, PC Craig Winner-Pardoe, PC Alice Proctor and PC Thomas Thatcher. PCSO’s Leigh Holcomb, William Browne and Sophie Piper. PS Francesca Archer. CCO Sharon Mackenzie and Bethany Holt
The individuals listed have been awarded a Chief Constable’s Outstanding Teamwork Award for their roles and teamwork during an incident involving a person in crisis.
On 16 June 2024, officers responded to a call of a vulnerable man suffering from a mental health crisis on the top floor of a multi-storey car park in Trowbridge. He was also heavily intoxicated and threatening to jump.
Between the officers at the scene, they attempted to engage with the man, who was clearly in distress. The male attempted to jump but officers grabbed hold of him without hesitation and held onto him for 30 minutes until the fire service arrived to bring him to safety. Other officers arrived and used throw lines from their vehicles to help secure the man and assist those holding on to him.
The man was safely returned to the ground where he was detained under the Mental Health Act and taken to a place of safety.
The physically and mentally demanding nature of the situation was met with unwavering resolve, highlighting the critical role everyone played in ensuring a successful outcome.
In recognition of extraordinary courage and commitment, this award honours the officers whose quick thinking and bravery in challenging circumstances prevented a potential tragedy. Their relentless efforts, from the initial 999 call through to the meticulous coordination of response and support, demonstrated exceptional teamwork and dedication.
Thank you for your outstanding efforts, and congratulations on receiving the Outstanding Teamwork Award.
PCC Special of the Year – SPC Damien Penman
The recipient of the special constable of the year award has developed a system which has not only allowed his fellow officers to work more efficiently and accurately, but it has undoubtedly made Wiltshire a safer place for our residents.
Whilst some of us may not be the technologically minded, we must all recognise the important part it plays in our world, and how the systems we use can make us more effective in the work we do.
Special Constable Damien Penman recognised the limitations in the systems which were being used to gather information as part of fast paced missing persons investigations, where there were only specific staff who could analyse large amounts of mobile phone mast data.
Special Constable Penman worked with the Digital Investigation and Intelligence Unit and used his professional knowledge to create a database which can be used by any Wiltshire Police officer.
Through this piece of work, hundreds of hours have been saved and we are now able to access more accurate real-time information when either searching for dangerous suspects or people who are at risk of harm.
You have not only done a lot of this work in your spare time, but you have handed over the rights to this piece of software at no cost to Wiltshire Police, when you easily could have taken it to the open market. This demonstrates your passion for ensuring the safety of our residents, and upholding the values of public service to a high standard.
By creating this database, and making it accessible for all Wiltshire Police officers, I’d like to thank you for leaving a legacy which exemplifies the huge advantages of special constables integrating their professional knowledge into their policing lives, and will benefit this organisation for many years to come.
PCC Volunteer of the Year - Peter Goodenough
I am passionate that the quality of the training we provide to our officers and staff should not only be fit for purpose, but should be the best that we can offer. That factors in a combination of the facilities, the packages we offer and the experience of the staff delivering it.
As part of these packages, our staff and officers need to encounter members of the public who are capable of giving critical and honest feedback with regards to performance in a training scenario.
Peter, you have given up over a hundred hours of your time over the past year to impart your experience within our training framework and your loyalty and commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed.
In your former role as the head of security detail to Elizabeth II, your ability to evaluate situations and communicate clearly with colleagues, are skills which are integral to the work we do.
Your work as a lead trainer for the MOD has meant we have been able to benefit from your career, and your professionalism and charisma has made a positive impact on the way our packages are delivered.
Your expertise extends beyond the scope of training our staff and officers, and you were one of the first volunteers to join Wiltshire College students in Salisbury and Trowbridge as they conducted successful safety sweeps with our Citizens in Policing team. This initial pilot has been expanded to other parts of the county, and this is partly due to the positive results from those first operations.
I’d like thank you for the exceptional contribution you make to the communities we serve and for your continued support of Wiltshire Police.