Detective Sergeant Bob Cooper Honoured by Prince of Wales at Windsor
Detective Sergeant Bob Cooper was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Police Medal by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, November 8. The medal recognises police officers across the UK for distinguished service or bravery in dangerous situations.
Decades of Service Fighting Serious Crime
DS Cooper began his policing career in 1991. After years tackling major and serious organised crime, he spent the last four years with Wiltshire Police as the tactical lead for rape and serious sexual offences, before moving on to improve investigative crime standards.
His role involved overhauling how the force handled rape cases, improving the victim’s journey through the Criminal Justice System, and working alongside the Crown Prosecution Service to raise investigation standards and change the culture around sexual violence.
Championing Victims and Raising Standards
DS Cooper also collaborated closely with community policing teams to enhance first contact with victims and guided senior officers on better investigative practices. Now working with the National Crime Agency, Cooper described his work in the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) arena as “incredibly challenging” but deeply rewarding.
“I wanted to make a difference wherever I could,” Cooper said. “Whether it was improving services, securing funding for Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC), or helping officers improve how they engaged with victims at first contact, it was all about making a difference.”
A Proud Moment and Grateful Tribute
Receiving the Queen’s Police Medal at Windsor Castle marked the pinnacle of Cooper’s 30-year career. He called the moment “proud” and “humble,” crediting his wife Tania and daughters Emily and Evie for their unwavering support.
Wiltshire Police Chief Constable Kier Pritchard praised Cooper’s contribution: “Bob has been an outstanding colleague and has transformed how the force handles rape and serious sexual offence investigations. He worked tirelessly to improve victims’ experiences from first contact right through the Criminal Justice System. The Queen’s Police Medal is a just honour for his selfless dedication.”
