Murder probe praised at awards ceremony

Dyfed-Powys Police handed out over 60 commendations and 20 certificates of appreciation during a ceremony held at its headquarters on Friday November 3.

The team who worked on the investigation into the murder of Private Matthew Boyd in Brecon have been recognised for their commitment.

In May 2016, Private Boyd of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment was discovered fatally injured in Lion Street, Brecon.

CCTV evidence revealed he had been subject to a sustained and vicious attack before being left for dead.

There were no witnesses to the incident and an incident room was set up, with the investigation team securing a conviction seven months later.

Detective Superintendent David Guiney, the senior investigating officer on the case was commended after he was responsible for all aspects of the investigation.

It was he who took the overnight call that there had been a murder in the town centre.

In a high profile investigation, he commanded all aspects of investigation, family liaison, media strategy and community tension. The officer showed diligence and dedication in the leadership of a difficult and challenging investigation.

Deputy senior investigating officer, Detective Inspector Neil Jenkins was also rewarded, and at the awards it was said he displayed great resilience in supporting this investigation whilst simultaneously managing day-to-day business as DI for South Powys during a particularly busy period in the lead up to the trial.

His positive attitude and strong work ethic made a significant contribution to achieving the successful outcome at court.

Chief Constable Mark Collins said: “The officers and staff being awarded with Certificates of Commendation and Certificates of Appreciation have displayed bravery, professionalism and a commitment to duty.

"The police service has always been a vocation requiring dedication from those entrusted to serve within it and I would like to extend my gratitude on behalf of the communities of Dyfed-Powys for the courage and commitment shown by each of the recipients.

“I have great pleasure in awarding them with their commendations and certificates, as their achievements are a reminder to us all of the level of work, effort and support provided to the public that they service.

“Furthermore, I am well aware of the tremendous support given by both family and friends and I recognise the important part that they play in the lives of officers and staff to enable them to continue to provide a first class service to the wider community. For this, I would like to extend a personal thank you.”