Detectives commended for investigation into fatal Oswestry stabbing
Two detectives have been commended for their work during the police investigation into the fatal stabbing of an Oswestry woman.
Detective Constables Mat Crisp and Sam Salt had lead roles during the year-long investigation following the death of 45-year-old Jill Nevitt.
Mrs Nevitt was killed at her home in Orchard Street, Oswestry on December 14, 2010. Her ex partner Brian Woodmass, aged 59, was jailed for 12 years after admitting manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility when he appeared before Stafford Crown Court in December last year.
DC Crisp was appointed Officer in the Case and DC Salt the Family Liaison Officer. They have been awarded Superintendent's Commendations for their "professionalism, thoroughness and resilience.
Superintendent Steve Eccleston, the senior investigating officer in the case, said DC Crisp took responsibility for managing all lines of enquiry dealing with a number of challenges. "He took all these in his stride, addressing each new challenge as it arose in a very thorough and professional manner."
He was also responsible for producing the initial file of evidence for the defendant's early court appearances. The excellent work of DC Crisp was also recognised by the Crown Prosecution Service, who praised his exceptional knowledge of the case and his efficiency throughout.
Superintendent Eccleston said DC Salt was the lead Family Liaison Officer working with Mrs Nevitt's close-knit family and managing a number of difficult situations as they arose.
"She managed all of these challenges with utmost professionalism and was able to build an excellent relationship with the family members. This was vital when it was necessary to gather detailed information about the previous relationship between Mrs Nevitt and the defendant.
"DC Salt also provided invaluable support to the court and the prosecution team during the court process."
