A police officer has been awarded for her exceptional work in securing 14 convictions during a prison investigation in Redditch.

DC Claire Masters was awarded a Chief Superintendent Commendation by DCI Gareth Lougher and Chief Superintendent Grant Wills in a special ceremony for her help during Operation Amalfi.

This operation was a three-year investigation into the movement of prohibited items into HMP Hewell in Redditch.

Throughout the investigation, DC Masters is said to have shown exceptional organisational skills, diligence and commitment which helped result in 14 defendants being charged with the systematic conveyance of contraband into the prison system.

A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: “Claire’s hard work and tenacity is a credit to her and to West Mercia Police.”

The ceremony awards officers, staff and a member of the public who have gone above and beyond their duty to protect communities across North Worcestershire.

Redditch Advertiser: Darren Harker performed first aid on a man who had a cardiac arrest Darren Harker performed first aid on a man who had a cardiac arrest (Image: West Mercia Police)

Another award went to Wyre Forest District Council worker, Darren Harker, who was presented with the Royal Humane Society Resuscitation award for his selflessness and bravery after he helped save a life on October 13 2022 during an incident in Brintons Park.

Mr Harker quickly arrived on the scene to find a man having a cardiac arrest and started first aid whilst waiting for the emergency service by providing chest compressions to the man.

Thanks to Mr Harker and following treatment at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital, the man made a recovery and was able to leave.  

Superintendent Mel Paley said: “The awarding of these commendations recognises fantastic work. It also highlights there are many more across the force area and nationally who deliver exceptional levels of service and regularly go above and beyond to keep us all safe.

“I am immensely proud and honoured to lead the men and women who deliver policing services across North Worcester, and tonight is a key highlight of this year for both me and my command team.”

Redditch Advertiser: DC Emma Chivers and DC Paul Lofthouse helped secure a conviction in a sexual assault investigation DC Emma Chivers and DC Paul Lofthouse helped secure a conviction in a sexual assault investigation (Image: West Mercia Police)

The final award went to DC Masters, DC Emma Chivers and DC Paul Lofthouse for their work on a complex investigation into the repeated sexual assault of a young child.

The team showed exceptional compassion, personal resilience and professionalism which contributed to securing key evidence leading to a guilty plea and the suspect receiving an 18-year custodial sentence for the offences.