A POLICE officer has been given an award for her role in an investigation into a murder in Brentwood.

Ds Michelle Stoten was recognised with a Judge’s Commendation, presented to her by ACC Steve Worron, for showing the highest level of professionalism during the probe into the fatal stabbing of Frances Nsiangangu in Tower Hill in September 2014.

The subsequent investigation and trial lasted 13 months with Ds Stoten acting as case supervisor. Along with the case officer, she conducted a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the murder and after reviewing numerous CCTV and telephone evidence established the movements of the suspects and the victim.

During the seven-week trial, Ds Stoten worked around the clock to support the prosecuting council and worked extensive hours. Her hard work paid off when the jury found Bernard Ampaw guilty of murder and robbery and co-defendant Clive Mundoma guilty of robbery. The actions of Michelle and her colleagues helped ensure two dangerous criminals faced justice and lengthy prison sentence for their crimes.

Ds Stoten's award was one of more than 30 certificates given to officers and staff from Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate at an awards ceremony at the Essex Police HQ in Chelmsford.

Essex's Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh said: "Whether it’s Analysts, Crime Scene Examiners, Family Liaison Officers or Senior Investigating Officers, the quality of the detective and investigative work this team show across Kent and Essex is the best in the country. The Deputy and I are immensely proud of what they have achieved for families, for the victims of organised criminals and the victims of homicides. We need to help these individuals continue to be some of the best detectives in the country.”