Young NSW detective named police officer of the year after solving serial
Detective Chris Phibbs was named NSW Police officer of the year. He led a serial assault investigation early in his career.
Chris Phibbs began detective work four months into his job. A young international student came to Auburn police station.
She reported a sexual assault. The woman had answered a cleaning job ad on Kaam Kotha, an online platform for the Nepalese diaspora.
She said she drank something the man made. He took her to his bedroom.
Then he assaulted her. She lost consciousness.
Phibbs led an 18-month investigation called Strike Force Bonilla. His work found that the attacker, Arvind Ravinesh Prasad, had contacted more than 400 women.
He assaulted multiple victims the same way. In August, Prasad was sentenced to at least 13 and a half years in prison.
He was convicted of drugging and assaulting the victims. Phibbs is now 31 years old.
He was awarded NSW Police officer of the year on Friday. He thanks his colleagues for helping him through the difficult investigation.
- Minimum 13 and a half years
- Prison sentence
- More than 400 women
- Potential victims contacted
- 18 months
- Investigation length
- Four months into detective work
- Phibbs' experience level
Why it mattersThe case shows how hard work by police can protect people at risk. It brings predators to justice. It also recognises officers who do more than their experience level might suggest. They pursue serious crimes anyway.
AustraliaThis NSW police success shows how Australian law enforcement pursues sexual assault cases and protects international students working in Australia. It highlights the dangers of online job platforms.
