Detectives who unravelled a complex web of manipulation in order to solve two murders have been commended for their work.

DI Lydia George, DC Reuben Brame, DC Emily Larkin and DC Kerry Turner received their awards from Essex Police Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington.

The team’s work featured in an ITV documentary, The Essex Millionaire Murders, which shined a light on the hugely complex investigation into the death of loving parents Carol and Stephen Baxter on Mersea Island, Essex.

The two-part production was broadcast on ITV 1 on Monday 28 and Tuesday 29 April.

Also commended were DS Adam High, DC Andrew Quinn, Katherine Judge, Michael Smith and Cat Taylor, who all made significant and expert contributions to the investigation.

The work of the whole team resulted in the conviction of double murderer Luke D’Wit and him being given a 37-year prison sentence – one of the most significant sentences ever secured after an Essex Police investigation.

Unwavering dedication and determination
Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington said: "Due to the unwavering dedication and determination of the officers and staff who have been commended, a dangerous and manipulative individual has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term, bringing some measure of justice to the victims' family for the heinous crime he committed.

"Together, they devoted thousands of hours to this extremely complex investigation and so I’m delighted to have been able to recognise them in front of their families.

"Essex is a family force and we all support each other but it’s particularly important to acknowledge the support provided by family and friends which allow our officers and staff to dedicate themselves to the incredible work they perform, day in and day out, to keep our neighbourhoods safe."

Watch the team unravel the Baxter murder case and secure justice for Carol, Stephen and their family in the two-part true-crime documentary series; The Essex Millionaire Murders on ITVX.