Great work by these officers honoured at awards ceremony

A TEAM of Essex Police officers who helped dismantle an organised crime gang have been honoured at a force awards ceremony.

More than 40 police officers and members of staff from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate were named for their work bringing a violent trio to justice.

DC Matthew Lincoln, DS Mick Ruddock, DC Tina Duffus, DCI Tony Pledger, DC Geoff McCreery, DCI Martin Pasmore, DS Liz Morgan, DC Lisa Gregory, DC Dave McGorrell, DI Mat Scott, DI Rob Haines were all recognised for their achievements in bringing serious and dangerous offenders to justice at the ceremony on 23 October. Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Smith and Detective Inspector Mat Scott were also honoured.

Head of the Serious Crime Directorate, Assistant Chief Constable Nick Downing, said: “I am very proud to be able to recognise officers, staff and partners for their exceptional work in securing the best possible outcomes for victims of serious crimes and their families, and for helping to keep Kent and Essex as safe places in which to live, work and visit.

“It takes a special kind of person to be able to investigate serious crimes, which are often complex in nature and highly emotive for those affected by them. Fortunately we have such people in abundance and I am constantly impressed by their work ethic, professionalism and dedication to securing positive outcomes for the communities they serve.

“From investigating historic crimes and frauds to murders, armed robberies and kidnappings, the directorate has proved to be a valuable asset shared between Kent and Essex.”