Four detectives commended in Shrewsbury murder investigation
Four detectives who took lead roles during a murder investigation in Shrewsbury, have been commended for their "outstanding" work.
The four officers were nominated for recognition following the investigation into the death of 30-year-old Wesley Morris who was found dead at his flat in Lancaster Road on October 12, 2010.
A local man, Shawn Heath Adams, aged 39, was arrested and charged with murder. He subsequently pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and received a nine year indeterminate prison sentence at Stafford Crown Court in June last year.
The four officers awarded Superintendent's Commendations, are Temporary Detective Inspector Jonathan Matthews for "outstanding leadership and victim care as the deputy senior investigating officer"; Detective Sergeant Mark Hill for "outstanding professionalism, detective ability and leadership as detective sergeant in the case"; Detective Constable Oliver Ewels for "outstanding professionalism, dedication, detective ability and leadership as officer in the case"; and Detective Constable Rob Loach for "outstanding professionalism, dedication and detective ability as the principal family liaison and enquiry team officer".
They were nominated by the senior investigating officer, Temporary Detective Superintendent Paul Williamson. He said: "They were key players in the initial response and small investigation team which subsequently resulted in the successful prosecution and sentencing of a dangerous offender.
"The prosecuting counsel commended the work of West Mercia Police and the officers involved and stated it was one of the most thorough murder investigations he had ever seen.
"The case therefore not only maintained but further enhanced the Force's reputation in being able to respond to the most serious of crimes and secure a successful outcome not only for the benefit of the public but also the victim's family."
He said T/DI Matthews's management and enquiries at the beginning of the investigation were exemplary. "He worked tirelessly to ensure the evidential requirements of the case were met and ensured the service provided to the family of the victim and witnesses was delivered to a high standard in demanding and difficult circumstances."
DS Hill used all his skills and experience to challenge and review the various actions, ensuring it was the most efficient of investigations. "He supported me and the team in every aspect and provided excellent support with the post charge/pre trial process, especially around expert witnesses and liaison with prosecuting counsel."
DC Ewels ensured all facets of the investigation were kept on track throughout and directed a number of critical enquiries to make sure all relevant deadlines were met. "The quality and standard of his file preparation was praised by the Crown Prosecution Service, the barrister and myself. He remained dedicated from the start to the end of the case and identified key lines of enquiry in several specific areas."
DC Loach was deployed as a designated family liaison officer for Mr Morris's family while also being utilised as an enquiry officer with specific and challenging tasks within the investigation. "He supported the family throughout the investigation and court case and was personally thanked by the prosecuting barrister. The family was also very appreciative of his work with them."
