"The entire event was traumatic to say the least but Chris was there by our side, guiding us and always comforting, sensible, realistic and supportive. I don't know how we would have been able to go through this process without him."
Hawkesbury police officer Detective Senior Constable Christopher Page’s professionalism and compassion during the successful prosecution of sexual offences have been expressed by the family of the victim in a tribute that has helped see him presented with the Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson Police Officer of the Year Award.
The Rotary Club of Windsor held the awards at Hawkesbury Race Club on August 22, with five finalists named for the prestigious title.
Leading Senior Constable Miles Burden, Senior Constable Matt Jarvis, Constable Geoff Goldsmith and Detective Senior Constable Jon Hughes lined up as finalists alongside Detective Senior Constable Page.
Hawkesbury Police Area Commander, Detective Superintendent Jim Stewart, said he was honoured to present Detective Senior Constable Page with the award.
“It was fantastic to see the finalists attend with their families on such an important night and the support from Rotary and community members was impressive,” he said.
Detective Senior Constable Page was the officer in charge in the prosecution of Richard James Russell, charged with sexual offences.
“After a protracted investigation, in March 2018 the accused was sentenced in the Downing Centre District Court to nine years’ imprisonment,” a statement from local police said. “The difficult investigative process, victim care and professionalism displayed by Detective Senior Constable Page is the reason for his nomination.
“It was a complex investigation that required dedication and tenacity over a long period of time to gain the result that was obtained. This successful prosecution and conviction was possible due to the professionalism, dedication and skills of Detective Senior Constable Page. The professionalism and compassion of Detective Senior Constable Page during the investigation, prosecution and conviction of Richard James Russell is of the highest standard and reflects highly upon him.”
