In 2017 a man was convicted of raping a number of women over a period of several years.

He identified his victims, befriended them, formed a domestic relationship with them and then sought to control every aspect of their lives. He then exposed them to vile and systematic abuse.

The conviction of the man came about because of the excellent and persistent work of a team of detectives led by Detective Inspector Michelle McKillop and Detective Sergeant Dawn Lowe.

However, the courage and strength of the victims was the most important element of the case.

Securing the trust of the women and then giving them the support that they needed was a lengthy, demanding and emotionally difficult task. Detective Constable Leanne Cullivan led this aspect of work and the Chief Constable said that what she did was truly outstanding.

One victim told her: ’Leanne, you mean the world to me and my family.’ There could be no higher praise.

DC Leanne Cullivan received a Chief Constable’s commendation and her team, Lissa Barklie, Kate Crompton, Anthony Corlett, Karen Gardner, Dawn Lowe, Stuart McLean, Michelle McKillop, Louise Sales, Alison Thompson and Emily Perkins were formally recognised for their investigative excellence.