Police colleagues applaud outstanding achievements at Exeter awards ceremony

Police officers, staff and volunteers have been celebrated at a recent awards ceremony in Exeter.

The event at the city’s Northcott Theatre took place to recognise those who go above and beyond while serving with Devon & Cornwall Police.

Sergeant Steve Mingo – who was a Police Constable at the time of the incidents – was a double winner on the night as he received both a Superintendent’s Certificate and a Chief Superintendent’s Commendation. The dedicated officer received the certificate for being part of a team who investigated a large amount of plant machinery stolen in Hampshire and being sold at a property in East Devon. Steve’s fast work in obtaining and executing a warrant led to a suspect being arrested and an organised crime group disrupted. The property had been stolen at various locations nationwide and was ultimately recovered and returned to its rightful owners.

Steve’s commendation was to recognise his outstanding work following a serious road traffic collision outside Honiton police station. The car driver was trapped with injuries and Steve’s actions ultimately saved the man’s life after the man stopped breathing. The officer was able to remain calm and liaise with other members of the public, as well as secure the scene to preserve evidence.  

Another double recipient was Detective Constable Alex Powe who is based at Exeter police station. Alex received both a Supt’s Certificate and a Chief Supt Commendation at the awards ceremony.

The officer was praised for investigating a complicated rape inquiry concerning a female in Exeter. The offender was found guilty at court and sentenced to eight years imprisonment. Alex also received praise and recognition for exceptional perseverance in securing a seven and half jail term following a complex sexual abuse case. The officer worked tirelessly to maintain the victim’s trust and went the extra mile to gather over 40 years’ worth of evidence to put before the court. The case was so strong that the offender pleaded guilty.    

Special Constable (volunteer) Andy Kinch received a Supt’s Certificate for finding a missing girl in Exmouth who was seriously injured. The teenager was found in the dark and during torrential rain and strong winds. Andy was calm and professional and stayed with the injured girl for approximately 90 minutes until the paramedics arrived. He is praised for being a fantastic, selfless police volunteer. 

Police staff member Chris Bibey, who works at Exeter custody centre, was off duty when he helped to save a man’s life. Chris was at a supermarket in Cullompton when he came across a distressed man and his wife and realised the man was choking. Chris managed to help the couple and administered first aid until a large sweet left his throat. The man made a fast recovery thanks to Chris’ swift actions and Chris has received a Supt’s Certificate.   

The team award for a Chief Supt’s Commendation was presented to Sergeant Richard Stonecliffe and the rest of the Exmouth Neighbourhood Police Team. They showed dedication, professionalism and tenacity to identify a complex criminal picture relating to County Lines drugs networks in the area. Following lengthy investigations, the value of both drugs and funds seized by police amounted to hundreds of thousands of pounds. Offenders were arrested and the drugs networks supressed which prevented further offences from taking place. The other officers receiving the commendation were: Police Constables Mark Edwards, Michael Elliott and Dave Pilling and they were also congratulated by the Exmouth Inspector Grant Leitch who went along to the ceremony to support them and offer his personal thanks.              

Sgt Tom Hall, Detective Constable Charlotte Dowling-White, Sexual Offences Liaison Officer Kelly-Ann Hutchens and Police Staff Investigator Paul Richardson worked on a team who investigated incidents of young girls being approached by men in a van.

A suspect was identified and arrested in Torquay and later sentenced to a six year jail term for two counts of child rape, six counts of inciting sexual activity with a child and one count of possessing an indecent image.

The officers received a Supt’s Certificate for a fast-paced enquiry which removed a dangerous offender from the streets.     

Detective Sergeant Tim Worden investigated a complex rape trial which took more than three years to get to court. Tim displayed dedication, compassion, professionalism and empathy throughout the inquiry and was thanked by the female victim for his “superb communication at every turn”.  

Tim gave hope to the victim, despite the delays and promised to deliver justice - which he achieved. For this Tim has received a Chief Supt’s Commendation.                      

Area Commander Chief Superintendent Dan Evans was at the ceremony to hand out certificates and congratulate the guests. He told them: “You are all very deserving of the awards and you should all be very proud of what you have achieved. I would also like to thank your family and friends who support you. Policing is a difficult job with many pressures and we could not do it without their support.”      

Also present at the event was local Superintendent Antony Hart and other senior officers including Chief Inspector Chris Conway and Chief Inspector Mandy Butler, as well as Specials Chief Officer Ashley Frayling.   

Family and friends joined the recipients, as well as the Right Worshipful Lord Mayor of Exeter, Cllr Kevin Mitchell and Deputy Mayor of Exmouth Cllr Steve Gazzard. 

The award nominees work across the local policing area which covers Exeter, East and Mid Devon.