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Officers and staff of Paul Taylor murder investigation ‘a fantastic example’ of team work

Officers and staff who worked on a complex investigation which resulted in a man being sentenced to life in prison for murder, have been commended by Chief Constable Darren Martland.

Jack Crawley was sentenced on October 23, 2024 for the murder of Paul Taylor, following a complex ‘no body’ investigation and a lengthy trial.

READ MORE: Paul Taylor Murder: ‘Highly Dangerous Young Man’ Sentenced To Life In Prison For ‘Brutal’ Attack

Detective Superintendent Ian Hussey led the investigation said: “All of those commended played a vital role in the investigation – from the detectives on the ground uncovering evidence and those meticulously trawling through CCTV footage to the officers who worked sensitively with the family of the deceased in their Family Liaison Officer role.

“Such a complex and challenging investigation needs a great many people to come together and work tirelessly and professionally in order to achieve justice on behalf of the family.

“I am extremely proud of all those involved in this investigation. Their efforts reflect positively on the Constabulary and our organisations on-going work to deliver an outstanding policing service to the people of Cumbria.”

Those who received Chief Constable’s Commendations included:

  • Det Supt Ian Hussey
  • DCI Paddy McDonnell
  • DCI Amanda Sykes
  • DI Martyn Park
  • DS Beth Casson
  • DS Dave Noble
  • Gary Humes
  • DC Lou Rayment
  • DC Jonathan Lowden
  • DC Tim Prangnell
  • DS Steve Kidd
  • CSI Jason Goodwin
  • DC Chris Hind
  • Sarah Potter
  • Helen Quinn
  • John Robinson
  • DC Leonie Wiggin
  • Emma Carruthers 
  • Claire McKenna
  • Jake Scott
  • DI Duncan Brooker

The nominations were supported by Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Ashton.

Detective Chief Superintendent Ashton said: “This investigation was a fantastic example of how a team approach can achieve remarkable results.

“Their work, and the work of the officers and staff reporting to them, ensured that a dangerous individual was sentenced to life with a minimum of 37 years.”

The death of Mr Taylor was initially treated as a high-risk missing person but, due to the circumstances, a Major Incident Room was quickly established and an investigation launched to uncover whether there had been criminality.

Extensive investigative work by a team of detectives uncovered evidence, including forensic evidence, which would help establish what had taken place and Crawley’s involvement.