Insp. Alan Grayson - DIVISIONAL COMMENDATION
Three police officers, whose investigations led to a man being jailed for 30 months for making - or possessing - an explosive under suspicious circumstances, have been commended for their work.
The advice of the Attorney General was sought in the prosecution, with the investigation also involving Special Branch, the UK Police National Bomb Data Centre at New Scotland Yard and the Security Service.
Insp. Alan Grayson, who has experience within Special Branch and National Counter- Terrorism, led the investigation, assisted by Sgt. Peter Frankish and PC Paul Cooper.
“The operational plan had to reflect that the man was thought to be producing home-made explosives at his home in Chedworth Drive, Worcester, creating a danger to himself and those around him,” said Ch. Supt. Jane Horwood, South Worcestershire Police Divisional Commander.
“Additionally, although there was no specific intelligence to link him to any suspected terrorist or extremist activity, such motivations couldn’t be ruled out.
“Forensic examination of suspicious articles and substances, seized immediately after his arrest on 22nd February, 2007, confirmed that he was making explosives - one of which was particularly dangerous if handled incorrectly - using information found on the internet.
“He admitted making and testing explosives in his flat, but due to their complexities, advice was sought from a Health and Safety Executive explosives expert.
“He joined in the final interviews, establishing the recklessness of the man's actions given the type of explosives he had made, the risk his activities posed and the lack of safety knowledge that he possessed,” added Ch. Supt. Horwood.
Insp. Grayson was commended for his commitment, tenacity and leadership skills, Sgt. Frankish for his commitment, investigative ability and supervisory skills and PC Cooper for his commitment and investigative skills - ensuring that potentially serious consequences were avoided.
• The 30-month sentence was reduced on Appeal to time served and the remainder suspended.