A Detective Sergeant who investigated the rape of a young girl in Appleby, resulting in the two teenagers responsible each being sentenced to more than five years in prison, has received a commendation from the judge who presided over the case.
Two boys, aged 14 and 15 when they committed the offence prior to the start of the 2019 Appleby Horse Fair, were both jailed for five years and four months each and must sign the sex offenders' register indefinitely.
The investigation was complex and lengthy and required Detective Sergeant Gilsenan to support the victim through the three years it took to secure the result at court.
In his commendation Judge Unsworth KC wrote that Detective Sergeant Gilsenan was being recognised for his "outstanding work as officer in the case leading the investigation".
Judge Unsworth added: "The case was a high profile one which required very sensitive handling. The case caused much concern in the local community.
"The police acted very swiftly and the prosecution was met with numerous obstacles over a period of several years.
"Det Sgt Gilsenan’s determined and resilient approach was manifestly evident as was his dedicated commitment throughout."
Sergeant Gilsenan said: "This was a complex and difficult case which took a number of years to reach a conclusion.
"The victim showed great courage during this period, without which we would not have been able to bring the offenders to justice.
"I hope that the case serves to highlight that such terrible offences are taken extremely seriously, investigated sensitively and that victims are supported throughout."