OFFICERS who investigated an arson attack which led to the death of a Warndon man have been rewarded for their work.
Det Ch Insp Paul Williamson, Det Insp Neil Austin, Det Supt Kate Stevens, Det Supt Richard Bentley, Det Con Shelley Orr, Det Con Julie Slater, Dec Con Kim Carpenter, Det Con Mark Morton and Christina Quinn were presented with a Departmental Commendation Award at a ceremony at the police headquarters in Hindlip Hall.
Andrew Heath was found dead following a fire at his flat in Chedworth Close which happened about 4am on December 14 2011.
A total of three wheelie bins were placed in the porch of his front door and set alight, with the ensuing blaze killing the 52-year-old.
Daniel Martin pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to ten years in prison in November 2013 after ten months of complex investigations.
Matthew Davies and Sarah Martin were also found guilty of perverting the course of justice and misleading the police enquiry.
The team were also presented with a national award for ‘outstanding leadership in an investigation’ at a National Excellence in Investigations award ceremony.
Ch Supt of Protective Services Andy Rowsell said: “This evening celebrates the hard work and professionalism shown by our officers when helping to protect our communities from harm.
“They are often put in difficult and life threatening situations as part of their job and these awards recognise and appreciate their determination.”
The ceremony hailed the commitment, performance and dedication shown by staff who make a difference to the communities they serve.
