Detective Wins Top Award for Cracking Landmark Corporate Manslaughter Case

Detective Constable (DC) Martin Hearn has been awarded a Chief Superintendent’s Commendation for his exceptional investigative skills and unwavering dedication in solving a complex corporate manslaughter case. The award ceremony, hosted by Devon & Cornwall Police, recognised DC Hearn’s pivotal role in securing a conviction against H&A Recycling, a recycling plant in Redruth.

Tragic Incident Sparks Investigation

In November 2017, the death of a young employee at H&A Recycling prompted an intensive investigation. The worker tragically became trapped in a baler machine, highlighting severe lapses in workplace safety. DC Hearn, alongside his team including Sergeant Nige Green and now-retired Inspector Steve Hambly, uncovered shocking conditions faced by the workforce. Employees, mostly young men, endured unsanitary and hazardous environments with rats, rubbish, and strong odours. Their tasks were perilously beyond the scope of their roles, all for meagre wages.

Meticulous Investigation Leads to Landmark Conviction

DC Hearn volunteered to act as the Case Officer, embarking on a three-year journey to uncover the truth. His meticulous efforts, in collaboration with the Crown Prosecution Service Special Crime Division, revealed the company’s gross negligence. The investigation involved sifting through extensive evidence, including employee training records, computer data, and vast amounts of CCTV footage. The thorough analysis confirmed H&A Recycling’s failure to ensure safe operation of heavy-duty machinery and a secure working environment.

As a result of the investigation, H&A Recycling pleaded guilty to corporate manslaughter and was fined approximately £200,000. The conviction marked the first corporate manslaughter case for Devon & Cornwall Police and remains one of the few such convictions nationwide.

Recognition of Exemplary Service

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Commander Chief Superintendent Ben Deer presented the commendation to DC Hearn, lauding his exemplary work. “I was delighted to present DC Hearn with a Chief Superintendent’s Commendation for his exemplary investigative work into the H&A Recycling corporate manslaughter case. Despite a lengthy, complex investigation, DC Hearn’s efforts and thorough investigation alongside his team led the company to pleading guilty to corporate manslaughter at Plymouth Crown Court,” said Chief Superintendent Deer.

He continued, “It is a huge tragedy that a young person lost their life as a result of poor working conditions. DC Hearn’s commitment to gathering and analysing all of the evidence has led to the company being prosecuted and has prevented further employees from being at risk of death or serious injury whilst at work.”

A Landmark Case for Workplace Safety

DC Hearn’s commendation underscores the importance of diligent investigative work in upholding workplace safety standards. This landmark case has not only brought justice to the deceased employee but has also set a precedent, emphasising the critical need for employers to prioritise the health and safety of their workers.