Sergeant Dave Cruxton of Staffordshire Police is being celebrated by his fellow officers as he bids farewell to a career spanning over three decades. Beginning his journey with the force as a cadet in 1986, Sgt Cruxton’s dedication and passion led him to the mounted branch, where he patrolled on horseback, embodying the spirit of service and commitment.
Throughout his illustrious career, Sgt Cruxton undertook a variety of roles within the Staffordshire force. From serving as a response officer to specializing as a wildlife crime officer and contributing to road policing, his versatile skill set and unwavering dedication shone through. A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police commended Sgt Cruxton for his exceptional service, citing his profound love for nature as a driving force behind his successful endeavors in tackling wildlife crime and promoting road safety initiatives.
In 2018, Sgt Cruxton transitioned to the newly-established road policing unit in the county. Here, he demonstrated his expertise and leadership abilities, progressing from a Police Constable to an Acting Sergeant. Subsequently, he assumed the role of sergeant at Longton and the Staffordshire Moorlands, where his impact on the community and his colleagues was deeply felt.
Chief Inspector Scott McGrath, the head of Staffordshire Police’s road crime team, lauded Sgt Cruxton for his legacy of unwavering dedication, adaptability, and his unwavering commitment to effecting positive change. As Sgt Cruxton prepares to embark on his well-deserved retirement, his colleagues and the community are left with a void that will undoubtedly be difficult to fill. However, the lasting imprint of his contributions will resonate for years to come, a testament to his enduring impact.
In recent years, Sgt Cruxton has extended his expertise by training frontline officers and enhancing investigations into road incidents. His involvement in the force’s off-road motorbike team in north Staffordshire, as well as his support of VIP escort duties and wide load operations, further showcase his commitment to serving and protecting the community. Additionally, Sgt Cruxton’s involvement in teaching motorbike safety and volunteering with Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Young Riders Pre-CBT scheme underscores his dedication to safety and educational initiatives.
Chief Inspector McGrath emphasized Sgt Cruxton’s passion for mentorship and education, evident in his involvement with initiatives such as BikeSafe and the Young Riders Pre-CBT scheme. This commitment to nurturing future generations and promoting safety highlights Sgt Cruxton’s enduring impact on the community and his dedication to fostering a culture of learning and growth.
As Sgt Cruxton prepares to embark on his retirement on 7th February, which coincides with his birthday, the Staffordshire Police force and the wider community will bid farewell to a stalwart guardian and a mentor whose influence will be felt long after his departure. His legacy of service, dedication, and passion for making a difference will continue to inspire all those who have had the privilege of working alongside
