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The Commissioner’s commendations were given to three Royal Gibraltar Police detectives for their work in bringing an dangerous child sex offenders to justice.
Detective Sergeant Jo Ullger was recognized for her meticulous investigation on Graham Southwell. This led to an historic prosecution.
The case, described by Police Commissioner Richard Ullger as ‘extremely complex, protracted and sensitive’, saw Southwell convicted of 19 child sex offences against five victims.
READ MORE Child sex offender, 63, who did ‘unspeakable things for quarter of a century’ jailed for 39 years in Gibraltar
Last week, he was sentenced to 39 years in prison – a sentence that is being described as one of the longest in recent Gibraltar history.
Southwell’s final years will likely be spent in HMP Windmill.
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At the ceremony of commendation, Commissioner Ullger thanked the officers for their extraordinary efforts. He said: “I’m immensely proud of what the officers have achieved in investigating this heinous criminal act, and I am grateful for the commitment and dedication they’ve shown throughout.”
In a court-read impact statement, one victim stated: “He stole my opportunity to have a normal childhood.”
During the emotionally charged sentencing last week, prosecutors painted a damning picture of Southwell, 63, as a ‘predator’ and ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ who committed ‘unspeakable things’ against his young victims.
Richard Ullger from the Royal Gibraltar Police applauded the verdict. He said: “This sentencing sends a message that our officers are relentlessly pursuing justice and prosecuting those who sexually attack children, wherever that abuse occurred.”
The courage of the victims in coming forward to report their crimes was particularly commended by investigators.
