Success of Bromley Police's Crime Squad rewarded (From News Shopper)

Success of Bromley Police's Crime Squad rewarded

1:29pm Friday 8th February 2013 in Bromley By Patrick Grafton-Green

BROMLEY Police's Crime Squad have received a commendation for their work after it resulted in the detection of hundreds of burglary offences last year.

Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Simon Byrne praised their "determination, professionalism and outstanding investigation skills" as they received the award at a special ceremony in Hendon.

The work of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Crime Squad - which is comprised of six police officers - resulted in 11 custodial sentences in two major investigations in 2012.

An extensive criminal network of offenders were identified after 200 offences were linked in a five month period across Croydon and Bromley.

Eight suspects were arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit burglary, receiving a combined total of 25 years imprisonment.

The Crime Squad also led the investigation into an organised criminal network committing night time residential burglary offences in Bromley and surrounding boroughs and counties.

This operation resulted in the detection of 220 residential burglary offences in London and Kent.

Three suspects have been jailed and two are currently in prison awaiting sentencing.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Furphy from Bromley Police said: "I am very proud of the achievements Bromley's CID Crime Squad in dismantling these criminal networks. It is a privilege to be leading the team serving the communities of Bromley with such determination and professionalism."