Essex officers commended for ‘remarkable’ work

FOUR Essex Police officers have been praised at the Chief Constable’s Commendation Ceremony.

Detective Constable Peter Harris was commended for his investigation into a crash in which an officer was seriously injured in January 2015 – leading to an 18-year-old man being jailed for six years.

Along with a specialist search team DC Harris, based in Boreham, searched a hazardous area within a derelict building where the suspect was arrested in February.

While searching for evidence he lost his footing and fell, fracturing several bones in his arm, and spent the next six weeks in plaster.

Worried his absence would affect the suspect’s prosecution, he asked to return to work after just five days of rest to continue the investigation.

DC Gillian Partridge and DC Kathrine Binks also received commendations for their commitment and professionalism in a complex child abuse investigation in November 2014, which led to a 54-year-old man being sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment.

The dedication from both officers, along with colleagues from the Police Online Investigation Team, led to the suspect being charged within 24 hours of his arrest.

And Sgt Mark Yorke-Wade was commended for bravery and dedication to saving a woman’s life in June 2015.

He had attended an incident where a missing woman had threatened to harm herself on the railway. He saw the woman attempting to climb closed barriers on the line and knowing a train would soon arrive he climbed the barrier and placed himself between the track and the woman.

Mr Kavanagh, speaking at last month’s ceremony, said: “It is one of the high spots in my calendar to recognise the remarkable work our officers and staff do daily.

“We want to say thank you for your bravery, your dignity and your commitment during those stressful situations.”

Roger Hirst, Essex Police and Crime Commissioner, added: “The strong feeling across Essex is admiration for your hard work and these ceremonies celebrate the work of police.

“It’s lovely to see recognition for bravery. What you are doing is extremely valuable to our community.”