RNC MEMBERS RECOGNIZED NATIONALLY FOR COMPLEX INVESTIGATION

(Sept 4th)

Two Royal Newfoundland Constabulary members have been recognized nationally for their exceptional work on a complex investigation that resulted in more than 150 criminal charges against Newfoundland and Labrador teacher and volleyball coach Markus Hicks.

Constable Nadia Churchill and Constable Tara Molloy were honoured Thursday, September 3, 2026, with the Canadian Police Association’s Award of Excellence during its Biennial Conference in Victoria, British Columbia.

The award recognizes police association members who demonstrate exceptional commitment to service, determination and professionalism, reflecting the highest standards of the policing profession.

Churchill and Molloy were recognized for their work during the extensive investigation into Hicks, which began in August 2023 and quickly developed into a Major Case Management file involving dozens of victims of sexual violence.

Investigators faced significant challenges throughout the case, including managing tens of thousands of images and videos dating back more than 15 years, along with DNA evidence.

The investigation ultimately resulted in more than 150 criminal charges. Hicks was convicted and sentenced to 18½ years in prison in August 2025.

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Association says Churchill and Molloy demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, innovation and integrity throughout the investigation.

While accepting the award, Churchill emphasized that the recognition belonged to the wider investigative team.

“While our names may be on this award, this award does not belong to us alone,” Churchill stated. “Investigations like these are never the work of one person.”

Churchill credited more than 50 RNC officers and civilian members from different areas of the organization for their work on the file.

RNCA President Staff Sergeant Mike Summers said the national recognition reflects the standard of service demonstrated by members of the association.

“This national recognition is a reflection of their remarkable work and the high standard of service demonstrated by RNCA members every day,” Summers stated.

The RNCA also recognized the dozens of officers and civilian members who contributed to the investigation, saying its successful outcome was the result of extensive teamwork, collaboration and expertise across the organization.

The association says the investigation demonstrates the increasingly complex and demanding nature of modern policing, particularly major investigations involving large volumes of digital evidence, numerous victims and complex forensic considerations.

The RNCA says it hopes the outcome of the investigation provides some measure of support to the survivors and assists them in their continued recovery.