Hilary Ryan, OBE

Specialist Prosecutor - Organised Crime, SEOCID

Since 2020, Hilary has been at the heart of the CPS response to Operation Venetic - the huge international effort that followed the infiltration of EncroChat, an encrypted phone network used by serious organised crime groups. Working with the National Crime Agency, French partners, Counsel and prosecutors across the country, she has helped shape the prosecution strategy behind one of the most significant operations of its kind. Her work has been central to building strong cases and helping the courts establish that EncroChat evidence is both reliable and admissible. 

Her impact has been felt across the organisation. Hilary has supported hundreds of prosecutions, shared her expertise with colleagues nationwide, and helped tackle some of the most complex disclosure challenges involved in cases on this scale. Her work has contributed to more than 2,200 convictions, and her leadership, skill and commitment have been a major part of that success.

Hilary said: “I am honoured that my work on Operation Venetic has been recognised in this way. I work closely with incredibly dedicated lawyers and investigators and with massive support from our Counsel team - the success of the operation has been very much a team effort.”

Libby Clark, MBE

Specialist Prosecutor, South East

Libby has played a vital role in delivering justice for women and girls in some of the country’s most complex and distressing cases. Notably, Libby secured the first successful prosecution under section 72 of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, securing the conviction of a man living in Kent who murdered his partner in Peru.

She also played a central role in prosecuting the murder of 10-year-old Sara Sharif, carefully building the timeline that helped secure convictions for all three defendants. Through cases like these, Libby has helped make the South East safer and strengthened public confidence in the criminal justice system.

Libby said: “I am totally surprised and deeply honoured to receive the award. I want to thank my son firstly and then close family, friends and colleagues over the years for their ongoing love and support, without which I could not at times have carried on working.

“I am fortunate to have been part of a team of truly outstanding colleagues in the Crown Prosecution Service. It is an honour and a privilege to serve the public. I acknowledge, with deep emotion, that any success on my part has come about because in so many cases there are victims.”

David Leighton – MBE

Administrative Officer, North West

For more than 17 years, David has gone above and beyond to build trust and strengthen community relationships across the North West. In response to increasing public concern around rising antisemitism, he played a key role in supporting a Jewish Community Forum with Greater Manchester Police - helping provide reassurance, understanding and practical support at a time of real concern.

He has also inspired future talent through his work with schools, universities and community groups to promote careers in the CPS and the criminal justice system. His ability to connect with young people has directly influenced recruitment, with several people joining the CPS after engaging with him - bringing the next generation of lawyers into the CPS to continue delivering justice in years to come.

David’s warmth, commitment and inclusive approach have made a lasting difference to colleagues, communities and the wider CPS.

David said: “I was surprised and deeply moved to receive this honour. It is especially gratifying to see the collective efforts of so many acknowledged, and I am grateful for the support of colleagues who have helped champion the work of the CPS.

“I hope this recognition inspires others in the vital and impactful work that we do.”