A Thanet detective is among officers who have been commended by the Chief Constable for their efforts in protecting vulnerable people.
Between them the four detectives, police constable and call handler provided vital assistance to a distressed man and woman and protected multiple children from sexual exploitation – securing custodial sentences of more than 40 years in the process.
Seven members of the public were also praised at the ceremony, which took place at the Kent Police College yesterday (November 21).
Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott was guest of honour.
Offenders jailed
Detective Constable Jennifer Brightman, from the Thanet Vulnerability Investigation Team, received the Certificate of Merit following two sexual abuse investigations that saw two offenders jailed for a combined 30 years.
In 2016 she took on a case which had seen a young girl be abused by a man on multiple occasions over the previous two years.
The victim was young and extremely vulnerable but DC Brightman was able to build her trust to not only help ensure she got the right support, but also gather enough evidence to bring the offender to justice.
The offender was eventually jailed for over 14 years after being charged with nine offences.
DC Brightman also secured a 16 year prison sentence for a case that had previously been discontinued in 2008.
The case was resumed in 2013 and in the coming years she was able to familiarise herself with the circumstances, support the victim, and gain enough evidence to secure the lengthy prison sentence.
‘Proud’
Alan Pughsley, Chief Constable of Kent Police, said: “I am extremely proud of these officers and staff who have demonstrated outstanding professionalism and dedication.
‘Their endeavours show the different and complex challenges my officers overcome on a daily basis, not only to bring offenders to justice but also safeguard vulnerable people.
“It is worth noting that these are however just a few examples of the outstanding work ethic and commitment I see from all of my officers and staff on a daily basis. It is these traits that help us secure positive outcomes for the communities we serve.”
‘Honour’
Kent’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott added: “It was an honour for me to attend the Chief Constable’s Awards Ceremony.
“Every member of the Kent Police family – officers, staff and volunteers – sets out to give a first class service to the public but there are times when individuals and teams perform exceptional police work which exceeds even the high standards the force expects of them.
“It is entirely right these people are recognised and I personally thank them for all they have done.”