New Zealand Police Deputy Commissioner Two of Rotorua's police officers have been recognised for their work on the Nia Glassie murder case.
Detective Sergeant Garry Hawkins and Detective Mahara Alcock were awarded a silver merit commendation and a Commissioners Commendation respectively for dedication to duty.
The officers, from Rotorua Police CIB, received the awards at the Rotorua District Council chambers yesterday.
New Zealand Police Deputy Commissioner Viv Rickards, who presented the awards, said the officers were very deserving.
"It was clearly justified because it was quite a high-profile case for Rotorua and the work done behind the scenes is not known and both [officers] received the awards for the investigation of that case.
"It's not always the cops out there shooting guns, it's these people working hard out in the background who are proving to be successful."
Wiremu Curtis, 19, and his brother, Michael Curtis, 22, were found guilty of murdering 3-year-old Nia after her death in August 2007. They were each sentenced to life with a 17-year non-parole period.
Her mother, Lisa Kuka, is serving a nine-year jail term for manslaughter for failing to protect Nia and failing to get her medical treatment.
Nia died from the massive injuries she suffered after the brothers kicked her in the head.
Mr Hawkins received the silver merit award for his work in leading the prosecution team during the court case.
He said he was honoured to receive the award for the work he did during the investigation, work he described as "hard personally and mentally".
Mr Hawkins said the case touched the hearts of all the police officers who worked on it.
Mrs Alcock said although she and Mr Hawkins received awards it was the work done by all who were involved which brought about the successful outcome of a conviction.
Commendations for Glassie officers
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