THAMES Valley Police has commended a number of officers and staff for their roles in a major investigation following the murder of Reece Heffernan.
The latest Chief Constable’s Commendations ceremony at Holdsworth Hall, Sulhamstead, saw Chief Constable Jason Hogg presenting awards to those who had worked to achieve justice for Reece.
Reece was stood outside a house in Romany Lane on Sunday, October 31, 2021, talking to two friends when they were approached by two cars.
One of the cars stopped and two men rushed towards the group with a knife, with a narrow hallway preventing Reece from escaping.
Officers were called to the scene, where Reece, 22, died as a result of his injuries.
Detective Superintendant Howard led the investigation into the murder as senior investigating officer and was commended for their “insightful decision-making and excellent leadership,” which enabled a meticulous, thorough, and timely investigation.
This includes the securing of significant identification of some of the offenders, vehicles, and routes taken surrounding the incident in spite of considerable measures being taken by perpetrators to hide prior planning.
Det Supt Howard met complex challenges in the investigation with “diligent and tireless” pursuit of evidence.
Case officer DC Heath was also commended at the event for their work obtaining and reducing dash cam footage and technical examinations into evidence–including tracking the history of the vehicles involved– which was crucial to proving that the incident was pre-planned.,
DC Heath was also responsible for the management of the two eyewitnesses and a further witness who provided important contextual information.
His professionalism and flexibility were key components of the investigation’s effectiveness.
CCTV co-ordinator Jon collated and prepared large amounts of instrumental CCTV footage for trial and was commended for “tireless” work, “diligence… and a sound investigative mindset and problem solving approach.”
The team was commended overall for “excellent leadership, tenacity in securing evidence” during a challenging investigation, resulting in successful prosecution.
Three men were subsequently convicted of murder and sentenced to a total of 71 years in prison between them.
Det Supt Howard said: “I take a sense of pride in the work that the team by achieving justice for Reece, his family and friends and hopefully trying to provide some reassurance to the community.”
Jon added: “Having been responsible for managing the CCTV element for a number of complex and protracted investigations, I am proud of the CCTV team’s contribution toward convicting dangerous individuals, securing justice for victims and providing answers to the families of those involved.
“I very much appreciate the recognition of that contribution, as represented in the award of this commendation.”
