The Law www.essex.police.uk March 2006 RECORD NUMBERS JOINING THE FORCE by Kate Batson & Heather Turner THE force has welcomed the highest probationer intake for several years with 258 officers joining since April 2005. The last three recruitment intakes at the end of 2005 resulted in 167 of these officers joining – one of the highest intakes of officers in Essex Police z Dc Nick history over a three-month period. Newbury, Essex Chief Constable Roger Baker said he was left, and delighted more people were coming forward to help Det Supt fight crime and keep the county safe. Kevin Macey “We have pledged to return more officers to frontline duties and our move into neighbourhood policing means that we will hand over the have more officers, PCSOs and Special Constables out on the £1,100 streets. cheque to “Good local knowledge is the key to helping reduce the fear Frances of crime in our communities, reducing the amount of crime Sharp, which is committed and improving our detection rates.” In two separate recruitment campaigns at the end of last Witness year, 1,750 application packs were made available. Service These applications have been processed and potential Manager for probationers will start to be appointed from April 3. Chelmsford Induction courses for the new probationers will be conducted at one of Essex Police’s Professional Development Units, Crown Court, located in Colchester, South Woodham Ferrers, Hatfield Heath watched by and South Ockendon. staff from Recruitment Manager Karen Puttock said: “We are delighted South-West to have recruited such a high number of officers. We are Major always looking to encourage new recruits to the force who will provide a real presence on the county's streets. Investigation “Recruitment is particularly important at the moment Team at because of our commitment to increasing visible policing, and Brentwood we will continue to recruit more officers to meet this need and to reassure the public.” A constable starting their training is paid £22,397, which Picture by includes a local allowance of £2,000. This rises to £24,770 on Heather Turner completion of initial training. And it is not just the numbers of regular police officers which are being boosted across the county. In November, 27 Special Constables were sworn in during an Attestation Ceremony – the largest number of recruits to the Special Constabulary to be attested for a number of years. Chief Constable Roger Baker has stated he would like to increase the number of Special Constables from the current 430 or so to 1,000. And so Chief Officer George Cook has embarked on a campaign to recruit an extra 100-150 Specials each year until 2010. Meanwhile, Insp Glenn Mayes is in charge of a project which looks to boost the number of Police Community Support Officers across Essex, too. With 350 people attending a recent recruitment evening, the Barbeque fun helps witnesses signs are good that force can reach its target of having 622 FUN and games and generous support Investigating Officer, Det Supt Kevin cups and biscuits. PCSOs on the streets by March 31, 2008. from local businesses helped South- Macey, stepped into the stocks for a Dc Nick Newbury came up with the Three years ago, Essex Police recruited its first ten PCSOs, West Major Investigation Team raise good sponging. idea of raising money to help who took part in a pilot project in Waltham Abbey and £1,100 for the Witness Service. Receiving the cheque, Chelmsford witnesses and families of murder Loughton – the force now has 205 and is hoping to take on They raised the money during a Crown Court’s Witness Service victims feel more comfortable during another ten or 11 each month for the next year, with even summer barbeque and a raffle at Manager Frances Sharp said it would long trials. The money will be split more being taken on in 2007/08. Brentwood Police Station – aided by be used to provide ‘simple comforts’ between Chelmsford and Basildon z Turn to Page 5 for news of how your Council Tax payments are extra money raised when their Senior such as newspapers, magazines, china Crown Courts. helping to pay for more police on our streets z Turn to Pages 6 & 7 to discover more about the role of PCSOs 2 The Law, March 2006 Federation news by Terry Spelman Terry has left the building WELL, here we are. The time has issues to deal with – Sheehy, Son of east allowance to assist in the recruitment has been assistant secretary now for just over come for me to hang up my quill Sheehy and Sheehy by another name, ie and retention of officers. a year and I have no concerns over his ability Our pensions have been altered for new pen, put away the abacus and put Police Reform. and commitment to the job. I wish him well for We have had attack after attack on our pay recruits from April this year and Special the future. myself out to pastures new. and reviews of our conditions of service. Priority Payments continue to be divisive. Taking Roy’s position will be Tony Rayner, Over the many years I have had the We have seen the abolition of rent allowance, We have problems with PCSOs, in that again, an experienced Federation member privilege of working for you in the followed by housing allowance. Then – certain divisions think that they can use these who, I am sure, will do a sterling job. Federation Office, we have had many surprise surprise – we had to have a south- instead of police officers to do jobs they were Sue Kelly continues in her role as chairman, never intended to do. with her vast experience. I am aware, however, that Chief Officers are Another new addition to our team has been trying to address this issue. Ross Luke, who took over the mantle of We still have the problem of the selling of Golf resorts & Friendly, misconduct secretary late last year and whose police houses and, as I write this, we have had other properties Reliable Service two open meetings, with one more planned, workload, unfortunately, is not getting any on the Costa By Ex – Essex before a report is given to Essex Police lighter. Again, his commitment is faultless. Authority. Finally, can I thank you, the members – past Blanca PC & Family I urge authority members to consider and present – for your support. carefully the concerns of officers before I would also like to thank the support making final decisions. members of staff in our office, namely Marian And we are still waiting to see if Essex will Godwin, Jackie Card and, particularly, Trish be forced to amalgamate with other areas. Morley, without whom my job would have been Come and meet Jackie Newton at: So, in a nutshell, what goes around, comes much harder. Saracens Head Hotel, High St, around and will continue to do so. Best wishes to you all both now and in the Chelmsford, Taking over from me will be Roy Scanes. He future ... Terry has left the building. Sat 29th April & Sun 30th April 10 am to 4 pm Cash coup as force For further details please contact Richard or Jackie www.insightspain.co.uk Tel: 0034 965 99 11 22 e-mail: [email protected] sets up bike section Quote ‘Essex Police’ when calling to receive your discount

z Pc Steve Allum and Pc Ray Jeffery ride out on two of the force’s new motorcycles TRANSPORT Services mounted a cash coup which will allow Essex Police to stagger their for the force when it bought seven bikes from replacement in the future. Jersey Police in order to re-establish an The bikes will be used during public order Essex Police Motorcycle Section. operations and for ANPR (Automatic Number Essex Police Authority had already agreed to Plate Recognition) work. purchase six new Honda Pan European bikes Nine officers are currently being trained so at a cost of at least £12,000 each. they can ride the bikes. Three others have But Transport Services Manager John already taken an advanced refresher course Gorton found out, through contacts, that and first took bikes out on patrol in January. Jersey Police was disposing of its fleet of Insp Keith Whiting, of Chelmsford Road Honda ST1100s. Policing Unit, said: “With the addition of He said: “This deal will save Essex Police these motorcycles and the training of another thousands of pounds that can be reinvested nine riders in March and April we will soon in frontline policing.” have a very highly visible and effective The Jersey bikes join two bikes already resource to help reduce the fear of crime, owned by Essex Police – and used for the increase the detection of crime and target Bikesafe motorbike safety campaign – plus a traffic offences which directly affect the further three ST1300s demonstrators number of people who are killed and borrowed from Honda for this year, and are seriously injured on our roads. now fully operational. “We have already had very positive feedback The Jersey bikes are already police liveried from the public who like to see motorcycles and equipped and one of them has a camera back on the road. Police officers have also mounted on it. commented on how effective the current The oldest is a 1996 model, but four are 2001 bikes have been over the past few weeks.” and the mileages range from 10,000 to 45, 000, z See Corner the Chairman on Page 5 The Law, March 2006 3

z Taking part in the Benevolent walk were: Campaign’s Alan Clay, Paul Hales, fund can be Keith Holland, tenth year is Claire Pye, Veronica worth it Cutchey, Sarah marked by a MORE officers are being Powell, Karen encouraged to pay into the Bramhill, Phillippa new award force’s benevolent fund to Pirie, Ken Miller, gain access to some of the AN anti-drugs roadshow has best convalescence services Stephen Mundy, been given a special award by available. Ashley Richardson, substance misuse practi- Just over half of all officers Sheila Collins, tioners as it celebrates its now pay into the fund, tenth year. compared to around 80 per Lis Campbell, 2 Smart 4 Drugs, which is cent ten years ago. Patricia Brewster, supported by local radio Flint House in Goring-on- Jean Hasler, station Essex FM, won the Thames, Oxfordshire, is a Rosemary Collier, award at the Essex Drug and police convalescence centre Alcohol Team Recognising for those suffering from Keith Wooderson, Achievement Awards. physical or mental health Chris Turner, Project co-ordinators Pam problems. Allan Bennett, Withrington and Pc Victoria By paying into the Marie Mueller, Wilson were presented the benevolent fund at little award by Assistant Chief more than 80p a week, Jen Waring, Constable Liam Brigginshaw. officers can receive treat- Richard Jones and The roadshow project has ments such as physiotherapy Julie Pritchet been promoting anti-drugs and hydrotherapy at no extra awareness and education in cost in accommodation to a Essex since 1996. high-quality hotel. This year’s tour will start Visitors not paying into the FIR raises £6,000 for the Ellie May trust on Monday, March 27, at fund would have to pay Clements Hall in Hawkwell several hundred pounds a THE strangest of sights occurred in the meningococcal septicaemia. After a fill of chips and sarnies and and will take in nine venues, week. Force Information Room on February 5. Being encouraged by plenty of horn more photos it was off on the return reaching more than 15,000 The centre is staffed by The corridor was filled with a variety of blowing from passing motorists, the journey, but not before Jean Hasler – Year Seven pupils across the fully-qualified medical and characters, including Pooh, Piglet and walkers were soon in Chelmsford town who was wearing a mini-skirt and county. care staff and contains a flat Tigger, Bugs Bunny, Friar Tuck and centre and attracting attention, which fishnets – and Keith Holland had Other dates are: April 20, for those who need to take Elvis along with a host of others. helped fill the collection bucket. decided to change costumes. Towngate Theatre, Basildon; family. And they were all ready to walk ten With the support vehicle in tow filled With the continuous support of hooting April 26, Tabor College, z For more information on miles in aid of The Ellie May Trust. with refreshments ranging from cars the walkers all made it back to FIR Braintree; April 27, Civic the fund contact the Welfare After a fill of bacon and sausage rolls, wine/beer to juice/water they reached by 4.30pm. Hall, Grays; May 2, Civic Office on ext 58601 cooked by, who else, Friar Tuck, there the outward halfway mark at Admirals Keith Holland has since added up all Theatre, Chelmsford; May was time for a quick photo shoot before Park, where several youngsters stood the pledges and, with the money 10, Playhouse Theatre, the walkers were waved off by Ellie and gasped as their favourite cartoon collected en route, it looks as though the Harlow; May 19, Charter Help to give May’s grandparents. characters ripped their heads off and FIR walkers will raise around £6,000 Hall, Colchester; June 19, The walk, organised by started drinking from cans and bottles. for the fund. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend; kids 4x as Communications Officer Keith Holland, From there it was a trek through the So, a big well done to the walkers and June 23, Brentwood Centre, was to raise funds to buy prosthetic countryside to the Pig and Whistle at to those who sponsored and supported Brentwood. limbs for Ellie May Challis, a 23-month- Chignall Smealy, where everyone was them. z AN outdoor event at much fun old girl who had to have her hands and made very welcome, with the locals Keith Wooderson Chelmsford is being held THE force’s 4x4 Fun Day feet amputated after she fell ill with again adding to the collection bucket. FIR Communications Officer here at HQ sports field on team is holding its biggest- July 16 from 11am-4pm, ever event as it celebrates featuring three different ten years of bringing half-hour performances from happiness to the lives of the 2S4D roadshow. disabled children. It is the first time since the Consisting of a number of 2S4D campaign started an Let your fingers do event has been held outdoors officers and staff from across the force, as well as members and open to everyone and it of the Royal Military Police, will help to celebrate the the team is organising the tenth anniversary. day at Marsh Farm in South Substance Misuse Co- Woodham Ferrers on August ordinator Pc Victoria Wilson 31. It is open to children from said the event was being held the talking in custody so that friends and families five to 16 with disabilities. Co-ordinator Michele of children who have been to crimes anywhere in the country.Any hits France said: “The day is a NEW technology to speed up by Ben Pennington the roadshow can see what from such searches are then confirmed real family affair as the event crime scene hits and finger- they have seen. is also open to siblings, if custody areas around the county. by a fingerprint expert.” “It is another opportunity print quality will be rolled The system will indicate when a poor- to push the anti-drink/drugs there are sufficient places. out this summer thanks to a The rollout will cost around £200,000 “The day’s success is all in its first year but, thanks to a joint- quality set of suspect’s prints are held, message,” she said. down to the continued help Government cash injection. funding arrangement with the Home and officers will renew those sets on Road Policing officers and and support of those who Livescan is a bookcase-sized piece Office the force will pay just half of that. Livescan. staff from the other volunteer, so if you have a of equipment with a scanning and The technology is just the latest in a “Bobbies on the beat will have almost emergency services will be on 4x4 off-road driving permit or viewing screen, and works by elect- long line of developments in recent years immediate access to a system offering hand to demonstrate, among would just like to give up ronically capturing fingerprints. which have kept the force’s Scientific 99.9 per cent accuracy,” said Det Chief other things, the results of drink and drug-driving. your time to help make this As well as eradicating the need for ink Support team at the forefront of forensic Insp Harper. day special, then contact us.” and paper, the machines will not allow a work nationally. “Not only will this confirm a suspect’s z For further information ring Pc Victoria Wilson on z Anyone who knows of a sub-standard set of prints to be recorded, Head of Scientific Support Det Chief identity within a few minutes, but 01245 452194 child who would benefit raising the quality of those held on the Insp Tom Harper said: “Livescan allows whether or not they are wanted for any must complete a Childs system. officers to confirm a suspect’s identity other crimes while they are still in our Registration Form, Following a successful pilot at Harlow within eight minutes through the custody.” Words are obtainable by email from over the last two years, Essex Police national fingerprint database, which Site visits by engineers at the custody Michele France. Closing date Authority has given the green light for now holds around six million records. blocks will take place this month with for applications is May 14 Livescan’s installation at all ten main “Police can also search outstanding installation scheduled for mid-July. funny, words are neat ... Web can help if you’re asked about internet crime WE always enjoy a funny story at The Law and the IT OFFICERS in the Hi-Tech Crime Unit combat identity theft and online The Office of Fair Trading the skills to handle the internet safely. Service Desk is always have compiled a useful list of grooming, which are both high-profile www.oft.gov.uk/Consumer/Scams/ Internet Watch Foundation happy to help. organisations and websites for staff to news at this time, ” he said. default.htm www.iwf.org.uk IT Application Administrator contact if they are asked about “We get a lot of inquiries from FIR A Stamp Out Scams campaign has Deals with images of child porn and Ian Smith explained: “In the IT internet-based crime. and help desks about internet-based been launched on this web site and child abuse and criminally racist Department, we receive This information is also useful crime scams because they don’t know who to covers most scams in circulation. content. There is also an online hundreds of calls for help a day, prevention advice for businesses, refer these to. We thought we would Get Safe Online reporting facility and details on how some for system passwords to personal users and children. alert people to a range of useful www.getsafeonline.org youngsters can use computers safely. be reset. The Hi-Tech Crime Unit itself deals contacts which will help.” A free service to help you to protect The Virtual Global Taskforce “This request was recorded at with forensic data recovery to obtain A downloadable scams leaflet is also yourself against internet threats. The www.virtualglobaltaskforce.com the IT Service Desk as: evidence from seized media of crimes available from the frequently asked site is sponsored by the Government Wants to make the internet a safer ‘Customer requests password involving computer use. questions (FAQs) section of the Hi- and leading businesses. place, help children at risk and hold be reset for ViSOR as he was Computer Network Investigator Dc Tech Crime Unit’s intranet site and The Parent Centre perpetrators to account. There is also entered three times incorrectly’. Dave Nash said: “We also provide the force’s public website also includes www.parentscentre.gov.uk an online reporting facility for abuse. “Needless to say we advice to officers on divisions about similar information. Children are likely to have internet z The Hi-Tech Crime Unit will be successfully, and completely computer-based crimes. There are Staff may find the following internet access in more than one place. This producing information leaflets and painlessly, got him out of his informative web sites available to website addresses useful: website helps you to equip them with posters for distribution soon difficulty.” For display advertising in The Law contact United Press on 01282 459533 4 The Law, March 2006 Law Letters HAVE YOUR SAY: Write to Heather Turner, Law Letters, Press Office, Police HQ, PO Box 2, Springfield, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 6DA. Letters and emails must include full name and home town. We reserve the right to edit letters. Please be aware The Law is reproduced on the internet and circulated to the media. Merging police forces is simply ridiculous We have a national squad I FULLY agree with George Raven Christopher Booker, an eminent improve the police force. Is the answer WITH the Home Secretary provide the liaison in their day- (Letters, January) that to reduce 43 journalist, published last November because Brussels rules over us? championing the amalgamation to-day work between the police forces to 12 to make them more that the proposal to merge 43 police When Edward Heath joined the of our local police forces in order individual police forces on these efficient, as claimed by the forces into 12 was the most fundamen- European Economic Community, he to investigate professional serious issues and any additional Government, is ridiculous. tal restructuring of British police in accepted VAT being imposed on us and criminals and terrorists across funding would be better spent to We now read that Home Secretary 170 years and the Home Secretary the 1972 European Communities Act borders and boundaries, one increase their numbers and Charles Clarke is threatened with legal endorsed the proposals, which corre- and he surrendered the sovereignty of wonders if he is aware that there improve the equipment at their action after bulldozing the fiercely- spond to the 12 EU regions of the UK. Parliament so European law takes is already a national police force disposal. opposed plans for a ‘super’ police forces When Home Office Minister Fiona precedence over British law. doing just that. So are amalgamations really by the amalgamation of the regions of McTaggart was questioned on this by More than 105,000 items of EU Since the early 1960s, officers necessary for those purposes or is Cleveland, Durham and Northum- Conservative MPs, including legislation (according to House of from various police forces have there, as many of us suspect, a berland into a sprawling north-east Chelmsford MP Simon Burns, she Commons figures) have been imposed been seconded to regional crime more political issue in his force, after being promised by Prime could not explain why the absorption of on us. squads, now organised on a motivation for regionalisation? Minister Tony Blair to listen to the locally-based police forces into an amor- Walter Ablett national basis. Robert J Cordery local views. phous regional bureaucracy would Chelmsford These crime squad officers Hatfield Peverel Your letters Come on meant so and join our much to me Neighbourhood happy throng THROUGH The Law, I would POLICE Car UK is a new like to thank everyone who organisation for those who so kindly sent letters, cards love police cars. and messages of sympathy to Whether you like cars or me on the death of my motorcycles, contemporary or husband Eric Chambers last classic, you will find many November. like-minded police officers It was through my and staff from other forces daughter Alison Hewitt, who policing again? share your passion – you are contacted those she knew not alone. and had met. I HAVEN’T stopped campaign- grin last month’s ‘The Law’ brought to Such links, trust, and community lead- PC-UK exists to bring We spent many happy ing: Writing to newspapers my face by revealing ‘new’ neighbour- ership skills take years to build and those people who have a years at Clacton with Eric and journals; lobbying our hood policing going live across Essex. require ability, training and dedication. genuine interest together to doing a job he loved and, The scheme mirrors precisely what Maybe Special Priority Payments are share their knowledge, views although we moved to Devon Chief Constable, the Essex was abandoned here 12 years ago and divisive and another way may be and experiences. after his retirement, he never Police Authority and Parlia- reiterates what all with experience necessary to reward officers prepared to The organisation produces lost interest in old friends ment; publishing leaflets and know: the basic ‘job’ does not change, put on hold ambitions for promotion or a good-quality magazine four and colleagues, especially the only fashions. Stay around long enough specialism, so why not use them as a times a year and looks at group he called ‘his lads’. pamphlets; attending confer- and everything comes full circle. Shift temporary measure to establish this what is new in terms of He constantly talked about ences, meetings and fighting patterns, police motorcycles, beat polic- role, with a waiting list of the best them and was very proud of vehicles and equipment up elections – all on the subject of ing. I’m just waiting for police horses to officers who will make it succeed? and down the country. their achievements. His weekly re-appear! Success breeds status and respect. phone calls with the late how we police our county and Its aims are to be both our nation. One phrase from the Chief Constable Status and respect empower, and only this informative and entertain- Derrick Hughes enabled him to gives me particular delight – will enable beat officers to gain know all the news of Clacton. Readers of The Law may be ing. ‘Neighbourhood policing is the core commitment from fellow response, invest- The magazine also looks We were lucky enough to familiar with the theme – a return business’. Spot on Mr Baker but, igation and other specialist colleagues to have two celebrations last back at the classics of police to ‘real’ community policing which although implied, one essential word is back their role. If beat policing is the motoring with in-depth summer – his 90th birthday puts service to the public first. core business, it cannot be a ‘stand alone’ and our Diamond Wedding, missing – status. coverage on legendary patrol In 1991 I was tasked with setting up role – it needs the backing of the whole of which he enjoyed. Until the role of beat officers is viewed cars from the likes of Elsie Chambers ‘real’ community policing in Harlow. We within the service as having the same the rest of the force. Status is key to Wolseley, Riley, Austin and were going great guns, but there were achieving this. Plympton, Devon status as any other ‘specialist’, it will be Morris. Motorcycle icons many obstacles, including a high level of difficult for local commanders to ‘sell’ to So, I hope the time has come for me to such as Triumph, Norton and z WE would like to thank all ‘abstractions’. get off this particular hobby-horse. I of you who helped to make constables without a carrot. In the past Velocette are remembered my final ‘do’ the relaxed and Ironically, the death knell for the this been the offer of a transfer in return wish Mr Baker every success and with affection. enjoyable session it became. project was sounded by the need to for a year or two running a beat. encourage every officer and support staff Archive photographs To those who contributed to resource the Brightlingsea demon- But a year or two is not enough to member to back this initiative for the guaranteed to bring a smile the entirely unexpected and strations, the last time I can think of achieve the level of community engage- long term and please forgive me if next to your face accompany every very generous gift, my grate- that the police put the rule of law above ment, trust and knowledge required. time we meet I have a smug smile which article. ful thanks. I’ve spent so long political correctness. After 7/7 former Essex man Andy says ‘I told you so’. The organisation currently in the art shop trying to work We were rightly arresting middle-class Hayman, now Met Assistant Now, double-crewing, locally-elected holds an estimated quarter out how to spend it to the women for throwing paint over officers, Commissioner for Specialist Operations, police authorities, the constitutional sta- of a million photographs. best advantage I fear they while preachers of hate have since been said the police need to have good enough tus of our police, police pensions ... Some members own may charge me rent. allowed to ferment terrorism with the links with local communities to discover there’s lots more to do. beautifully-restored classic The farewell e-mails I acquiescence of police and prosecutors. when people are engaged in the activi- Tony Hall police vehicles from the likes received, the texts, even the So, you can imagine the Cheshire Cat ties those young bombers were. Harlow of Jaguar and MG, Triumph risque ones – you know who and BMW, Rover and Volvo. you are – the final gathering Many of these are displayed of friends and the evocative Are we going back in at various police open days memories confirmed to me There’s nothing new throughout the summer that I couldn’t have spent the months. last 30 years with a finer I WAS very pleased to read on the report, so what is ‘new’? And we time to the early 1970s? PC-UK is run by police group of people. Front Page of the February issue were just continuing a long HAVING just read last never seemed to work officers for police officers and Whether you were there or about the ‘new’ neighbourhood history of this traditional policing. staff, both serving and retired, not, thanks for your compan- month’s copy of The Law, because NBOs were used policing team in Colchester and a It was also very interesting to who hold a wealth of know- ionship and support down I thought I must have for other duties, because very fine looking team of officers read in the Federation News of ledge and experience and is the years. they are! quotes from Chief Constable gone back in time, just of shortages elsewhere in Chris & Heather Macintosh like the BBC TV the division. not open to anyone else. But might I point out that ‘first’ Roger Baker – ‘basic, traditional Membership, at £18 per Chelmsford programme Life On Mars. With the return of traffic and ‘new’ are inappropriate policing the way we used to’ – and year, includes the magazine. I WOULD just like to There must be many z adjectives with regard to this style Essex Police Authority chairman motorcycles, how long For details visit the website thank all who kindly came to retired police officers will it be before we see of policing. Robert Chambers ‘We should be who, like me, were www.policecaruk.com or the funeral of my husband Back in 1962 I served as a beat trying to get back to some of those horses patrolling the Basil West, who passed away neighbourhood beat write to PC-UK PO Box 753, officer in the original Laindon old-fashioned police values’. seafront or, perhaps, this very suddenly on November officers (NBOs) at some Portsmouth PO1 9BQ. Mr Baker wants to see each summer, I might even see 24 last year. Police Station together with eight stage in their service. Steve Woodward It was wonderful to see so other officers under the super- neighbourhood in Essex having its The system of NBOs was Southend Division’s Chairman, PC-UK many of his colleagues, albeit vision of two sergeants, working own policing team and we should up and running in the inflatable ‘marine rescue’ on a very sad occasion, and it with a CID officer. all wish him well in that ambition. 1970s and 1980s in there, too. was so bitterly cold. We achieved all of the objectives Robert Cordery Southend and, although a Alan Longhurst Thank you I have now heard from given as bullet points in your Hatfield Peverel good idea on paper, it Great Wakering MAY I thank my ex- Cancer Research, the chosen colleagues and friends from charity of donation in place of Essex Police who attended floral tributes, and the sum Best wishes to our dear friend Norman on his MBE my wife’s funeral at Basildon donated to date is £312, Crematorium on January 20. which is marvellous. I know RE the story It’s An Honour Eastbrook. In the early Pc 785 – was posted to and join me in sending our Just the fact that they were Bas would be more than (The Law, January 2006), I months of World War Two, I Tiptree in the early 1950s. sincere congratulations on there meant so much to me happy with this outcome. was reminded of how the years was evacuated to Tiptree. My daughter and son – now the award of an MBE to him. and my family. Margaret West pass on seeing the picture of Then, by coincidence, my in their late 50s – have Doreen Ranson David Jones Chelmsford Head of Photography Norman late husband – at that time known Norman a long time Westgate-on-Sea, Kent Stanford le Hope The Law, March 2006 5 Corner the The second Wouldn’t it be emergency chairman luverly? Eliza number ... (Justina ESSEX is keen to become one Bartley) of the second wave of forces with to implement a Single Non- Emergency Number for the the public to contact. costermongers The Government aims to (Michael have a Single Non-Emergency Pearce, Number (SNEN) in place by 2008, enabling police forces Mark and local authorities to accept Edmondson, and deal with calls from the John Snell and public. A team from Essex and the z Essex Police Authority Bob Drake) police authority travelled to chairman Newcastle to examine Robert Chambers Picture by Northumbria Police’s plan- Mary Cotter ning processes. Chief Supt Sue Harrison Motorbikes said: “If we are selected for Wave 2 then our residents will help us will dial one three-digit number; their call will either be dealt with by that call- in the fight taker or referred to another service delivery partner. against crime Faint heart never won a fair lady “This is a very exciting new initiative which will ensure I AM delighted that we MY Fair Lady was a fitting production how Cockney ‘sparra’ Eliza Doolittle is sold out on a nightly basis – with that we and our partners pro- have acquired seven with which to grace Essex Police turned into a ‘laidee’ by language programme and refreshment sales and vide a high-quality service to motorcycles and I am Musical Society’s 40th anniversary expert Prof Higgins but given no credit donations making enough to cover the our customers – the public. “ year. for her efforts. production costs. looking forward to seeing “Our visit to Northumbria them out on the roads of It was last performed in 1990 with the So, suffice to say, a rollicking tale was It was obvious by the applause that the showed us what can be Essex. same lead man – George Lambeth as told in a rollicking way, with huge effort put in by both cast and achieved by working smarter We really do need motorised Prof Henry Higgins – and the only marvellous performances from both backstage was much appreciated by the with our partners to deliver a thing that appeared to have changed main characters and chorus, with patrols to attend incidents audience – many of whom left, vowing fully joined-up service to the was a little more grey in the hair. Or barely a note out of place. more efficiently as well as to return for the next production. community..” providing a visible presence was that a wig? And, for this reviewer, a great, tuneful For a week in February, HQ’s assembly production was topped off by the fact EPMS vice-chairman Jenny Hillyard to reassure the communities thanked everyone who supported the we serve. hall was draped with well-painted and that the musical ended at exactly the production. “We were all tickled pink at Help sought We have always used colourful vistas and bright costumes right spot – Eliza returns to Prof motorcycles for education ready for the nightly show. Higgins. The End. the response,” she said. and training purposes but to No-one can fail to know the story of Even better the performances were Heather Turner to solve air increase our fleet is a big bonus for us and the public. raid mystery As well as providing a great presence on the roads we WERE you living in a police can also look to reduce house in Chelmsford during accidents and fatalities. New database is set World War Two and do you We have been very fortunate hold memories that could to acquire these bikes from unravel the mystery of an air Jersey Police. raid shelter? By purchasing these Essex Police Museum motorcycles, we have saved Curator Becky Latchford is thousand of pounds which keen to hear from anyone can now be invested into to IMPACT on crime who may know about an air frontline policing. A POWERFUL new crime- faster and more efficient service – number of recommendations following raid shelter found in the garden of 31 Kingston Not only are we fighting tool has been set up particularly vital in time-critical the murders of Soham schoolgirls Holly reintroducing our motorcycle situations such as a kidnap. Wells and Jessica Chapman, including Crescent. section but the other aspects across the country to help For the time being officers will still the establishment of a national IT The shelter – about the size of our Mobile Support officers track and trace indiv- have to contact the ‘holding’ force to system to support police intelligence. of an Anderson shelter but Division are vital to the iduals being investigated. establish the nature of the information. As well as saving time, the index will with a concrete entrance – success of Essex Police. The IMPACT Nominal Index (INI) The computer terminals and staff also help to track criminals across force was discovered some time I believe we can continue to trained to use this technology are based boundaries, reducing the likelihood that ago but it is full of rubble so is a list of names and corresponding no one has been able to be proactive in reducing dates of birth of individuals named in the Force Intelligence Bureau. they will evade detection. crime and the fear of crime Supt Tim Newcomb, of Crime Chief Constable Roger Baker said: explore its depths. with the motorcycles, dog in certain police records nationally Division, said: “This is new technology “Information-sharing among forces is a Inquiries are in hand with unit, boats and helicopter – – these include domestic violence, and is only the first step along the road major step forward in tackling crime. INI Chelmsford museums to find we have recently purchased intelligence, crime, custody, to true fast-time intelligence sharing. will make investigations more efficient out any further information new boats; we have firearms and child protection. “In order to control the volume of and help reduce criminal activity in as there may not be many refurbished the dog unit; For the first time, Essex Police officers enquiries, use of the INI is currently Essex and, indeed, the country. such shelters left in situ in and we have introduced can establish whether another force restricted to child protection invest- “We look forward to giving offenders the area. special new FIDO head holds information on a person they are igations or other very serious crime. It nowhere to hide by working closely with Becky said: “I would like to cameras for dogs. investigating. does, however, represent a significant other police forces.” hear from anyone who And the force helicopter will Until now, if an officer wanted to know development in fighting crime and Child Abuse Investigation Units remembers the shelter, who have an even bigger part to whether any other police force in England protecting children and other vulnera- (CAIU) have access to the INI database, lived in the road during the play if congestion on the and Wales held such information they ble members of the community”. which is now undergoing evaluation war or who has memories or roads continues to increase would have to make 42 phone calls. The index was developed by the Home before being rolled out more widely, for photographs from around in the way that it has. Now this information is available at Office IMPACT programme in response use in child protection work and other that time. It would be really We are a progressive force the click of a button, providing a much to the Bichard Report, which made a criminal enquiries. interesting to find its history and we are continuing to before it becomes a lost expand our capability. treasure.” When the public starts to tell us that they feel safer Policing costs rise by just 12p a week Getting away here and we have ESSEX Police Authority has agreed a police officers are trained to the highest Essex are up and crime rates are falling. significantly reduced crime budget of £232million for 2006/07. standards and freeing up valuable Essex is becoming an even safer place to we know we are making real This means council tax payers will police officer time by using trained live and all with a Council Tax rise from it all ... progress. pay an average of an extra 12p a week police staff to take on some duties. which is affordable for everyone.” A WEEKEND trip to Disney- We are already successful towards police funding in the county. Essex Police Authority chairman Chief Constable Roger Baker said: land Paris and to a selection but we will be the best force The 5.9 per cent increase means that Robert Chambers said: “Our main aim “For just an extra 12p per week, resi- of London shows are just in the country. Essex Police still has one of the lowest with this rise is to increase visible dents in Essex will see more officers on some of the trips on offer from the Essex Police Sports z Is there something you policing costs in the country. policing. the beat forming more localised policing want to know ”about The rise will be used to invest in “By the end of March we will have in their area. Association. Essex Police Authority? essential services and in returning more returned 200 police officers to the front “We made a commitment to the public The trip to EuroDisney is To ask Mr Chambers a police officers to frontline duties. line from existing resources and we can to introduce 200 officers back to front- from May 27 to 29. There are question, write to Kate Among other things the extra cash now add an additional 38 sworn police line duties by the end of March, and this dates for several top shows, too. Batson, Press and PR will help to pay for is recruiting an addi- officers. shows our commitment with the police z Visit the intranet website Officer, Essex Police tional 38 police officer and 133 PCSOs, “By the end of the year we will have authority to deliver it. under Divisions and Authority, at HQ Press investing in forensic services – DNA 340 PCSOs and our aim is to have up to “I am delighted that this budget Departments, click on EPSA Office. Mr Chambers will and fingerprinting – financial invest- 1,000 Special Constables in the next two allows us to deliver what the public and then on HQ Sports and select some to reply to. igations and training, delivering a years.” wants and meets the operational need of Social or email Shirley central Crime Bureau, ensuring that Mr Chambers added: “Arrest rates in Essex Police.” Turner at HQ for details For display advertising in The Law contact United Press on 01282 459533 6 The Law, March 2006 The Law, March 2006 7 Force museum Drug dealers hosts LGBT told to hand history display An almanac vital over cash ESSEX Police Museum FOLLOWING investigations hosted an exhibition on the carried out by the Serious history of the relationship and Organised Crime between the law and lesbians, Directorate’s Financial gays, bisexuals and to policing success Investigations section, crown transgendered people as part courts have made of LGBT History Month. POLICE Community Support Officers are spends time chatting to the children there. Confiscation Orders against The display dated back to a vital part of neighbourhood policing, She has been a PCSO since November. two convicted drug dealers. 1810 – when there were according to Sgt Dean Chapple, a man in Before joining Essex Police she worked at These cases highlight the campaign Taking The Profit severe penalties for lesbians the know in Colchester. Colchester Magistrates’ Court, as a builder Out Of Crime. and homosexuals who refused He is one of two sergeants – the other is and in a bank. An Essex drugs dealer who to conceal their activities – Elliot Lloyd – responsible for St Andrew’s She is committed to dealing with crime, and ran through to the had been convicted of and St Anne’s, the first neighbourhood to criminals and providing intelligence. present day, and featured supplying £180 of Class A quotes from LGBT Essex go ‘live’ in Essex, at the end of January. As Dean says, Emma and her colleagues drugs appeared before Police officers and staff. With five PCSOs among his team of police are ‘essential to the success of Ipswich Crown Court and was In the past, the silencing of officers, PCSOs and Special Constables, neighbourhood policing’. ordered to pay a Confiscation LGBT people was often Dean knows what he is talking about. “With the PCSOs, the intelligence they Order of £19,084. He faces a re-inforced by legislation. “Officers are dealing with prisoners and bring in to us is phenomenal. further 12 months in prison if The most recent example was paperwork generated by crimes. “They are the almanac of an estate. They the money is not paid by the the now infamous ‘Section 28’ “That takes them away from the frontline,” know the finite detail of an area. end of this month. – passed in 1988 and said Dean, 37. “If you give them a brief description of In the second case, a man repealed in 2003 – which was “We have ensured the PCSOs do someone, they will know who that is if that who had been arrested by the intended to restrict debate on high-visibility reassurance patrols and person is on their estate.” Essex Crime Squad and homosexuality, particularly in provide community contact. Dean said of the PCSOs in the Colchester subsequently sentenced to schools. “Eighty per cent of their shift is out on the neighbourhood policing team: “They do a four years’ jail for possessing LGBT History Month ran last ground.” fantastic job. Class A drugs with intent to month and was a chance for PCSOs such as Emma Silk, 26, visit “And the more PCSOs I have, the better it supply them appeared before police officers and staff to victims of crime and neighbourhood reassures the public, who love them. Southend Crown Court learn more about the dispute and give general advice. “There are no barriers if they are on foot February 9. histories of LGBT people in Sgt Dean Chapple, of the St Andrew’s and St Anne’s Neighbourhood Policing Team in Colchester, uses a bike to catch up with Willowbrook Primary School is on their patrol, people immediately start talking to A Confiscation Order for the UK. A separate exhibition PCSO Emma Silk, 26, out on patrol patch in the heart of St Anne’s and Emma them.” £51,000 was made against could also be seen in Essex him, too, and he faces an Police Training Centre. extra 18 months in prison if he fails to pay. Financial Investigator Teenage driver Supervisor Philip Bridge, of the directorate’s Financial is banned Investigations section – formerly the Economic Crime AN 18-year-old man from Unit – said the section would Halstead was on the be increasing its staff to receiving end of the force’s Pioneers in the ‘maximise our ability to intolerance towards people tackle money laundering and who drive dangerously. deprive more criminals of The teenager was fined their profits’. £1,000 and disqualified last month after officers caught him weaving through traffic Do dogs on the A12 at speeds of up to 105mph. His Mini was spotted by have a nose officers from Stanway Road Policing Unit as it wove across all three lanes of the for the job? neighbourhood ESSEX Police’s Dog Section road near Marks Tey. The teenager was also will be taking on the next charged with driving while JUST think what we When undertaking a Masters degree, Director And 20 are due to start next month generation of drugs dogs in his vision was obscured after could achieve by of Finance and Administration Rick Tazzini, – 11 have been match-funded by the the next few weeks and is his tinted windows failed a left, decided to look at Police Community parish or district councils in the looking for springer and light test. He was hit with a tripling the number of Support Officers – particularly relevant with community in which they will serve. cocker spaniels. court bill of £320 and ordered Renaissance The Dog Section is part of the z PCSOs Mark Roddy and Frazer Loveman on patrol in South Ockendon PCSOs in Essex the advent of neighbourhood policing. force’s Mobile Support to take a re-test. Rick believes that ‘if Essex Police can z PCSO Dave Brown and PCSO Stuart Burt chat to a Sgt Nick Edwards, of – so says Rick Tazzini His dissertation Plastic Police Or Pioneers Of youngster in Harlow about his mini-motorbike Division based at Sandon Genuine Community Policing? looked at the continue to deliver consistently the near Chelmsford. Stanway RPU, said it was after carrying out very best of current PCSO practice ‘only by luck’ the driving did role PCSOs play in Essex The next training course for then, combined with the rise in not cause a serious collision. research into the role drugs dogs begins on April 17 “The court recognised the Local knowledge gets PCSOs play in the fight numbers, this could bring about a ‘Doing something and will run for four weeks. severity of the offences and renaissance in community policing for The team wants to hear from awarded a suitable against crime, nuisance in those areas which they patrol incidents and picking up work which Essex’. anyone with a Springer or punishment,” he added. and disorder in the regularly – spending an average of 60 should be carried out by police officers. Rick says: “I genuinely enjoyed Cocker Spaniel which they to 70 per cent of their time on visible “Instead of the flashing blue light, the carrying out the research, which was think would be suitable to county. patrol. PCSO role should reflect more of a about problems’ donate to the dog section, made richer by the support and Conference results for PCSO pair “I think the angle is what a And much of this reassurance is soft, warm, reassuring glow.” although other breeds will be co-operation that I experienced out in OVER in the Harlow area, carried out by a 13-year-old, achieved by simply ‘walking, talking Rick notes that PCSOs have proved considered. cracking job these people do,” the field. PCSOs are playing their who was able to buy the HELPING to apprehend five suspected “The occupants of the vehicle went into a and being a friendly face to young and successful at carrying out their duties The dogs needs need to be places fill up armed robbers must be close to the top of the house and it was surrounded by officers from says Rick, the force’s Director “With the thrust on neighbourhood part in solving problems fireworks and the old alike’. and make a unique contribution to involving nuisance youths. aged between 10 and 18 list of triumphs for South Ockendon PCSOs Grays. of Finance and Administration, policing, my findings give weight to shop owner was months old, lively, confident PLACES for the 2006 Essex “Instead of being slaves to the police building safer communities. Late last year, Dave Brown subsequently reported for Police Youth Conference next Mark Roddy, 44, and Frazer Loveman, 22. “They arrested five people.” after carrying out 26 hours of radio they can deal with matters in Eyes and ears the role of effective PCSOs in and of good temperament. As a result of their initial actions, two men However, that is not the end of it. Mark and neighbourhood policing teams. and Stuart Burt carried out prosecution. month are filling up fast. patrols with PCSOs and nine slow time, affording time and attention “Used effectively ... PCSOs are the Pc Philip Passfield, from the were jailed late last year for four years and Frazer have helped to recover around 100 action days to target Sgt Craig Carrington, of Dog Section training team, The conference will be held to deal with the public.” eyes and ears, deep in the community,” “At its heart, Essex Police aims to ‘take two years, respectively. stolen vehicles in their time on the beat. hours of interviews, combined mini-motorcycle riders, Harlow Community Policing said: “By the end of their on April 11 and 12 at the Having gained the confidence and he says. a lead in making Essex safer’. PCSOs resulting in five youths Mark has been a PCSO for two and a half If they notice a vehicle which they don’t with a questionnaire completed trust of the communities within which are a crucial tool to tackle the Team, said: “PCSO Maylin training the dogs will be able University of Essex near years. Before that he was a warrant officer at recognise, they call it in for a PNC check – “Being intelligence-led and intelligence being warned about their by 60 PCSOs and 47 police offi- they work, PCSOs can play an low-level crime, nuisance and disorder adopted a problem-solving to indicate where a controlled Colchester. Grays for 18 years, when he also had a hand the stolen ones are often recovered less than gatherers will enhance their conduct. The programme includes cer supervisors. essential role in picking up ‘low-level’ that blights many communities. approach to this incident substance is, as well as in an armed robbery case when he recovered 24 hours after the theft. effectiveness.” PCSO Burt also went on to and thought of various ways firearms, ammunition and speeches and seminar community intelligence, he believes. Essex Police is looking to increase the “The highly-visible, uniformed £25,000 after the robbers dropped it. “We know which vehicles should be in the Having completed the research for local radio station Ten17, to deal with it. cash.” sessions, which include “PCSOs recognise that quality of life number of PCSOs across the county presence provides the public with a He became a PCSO because he ‘fancied a area,” Mark explained. They also know who his Masters degree in Business asking residents to report “He researched the incident z If you have a suitable dog neighbourhood policing, infor- change’. the disqualified drivers are and can usually Administration, Rick is now full of issues are what really count to the – 650,000 households – from a current considerable reassurance dividend,” the nuisance and stating mation sharing, drink, drugs public. As a first responder to low-level to improve his knowledge to donate, contact Pc Passfield “A warrant officer is not tied to a desk and identify people from CCTV if they are from 205 to 622 by March 2008. concludes Rick. what they were doing to at Sandon Dog Section on and crime, parenting, dealing admiration for the work PCSOs do issues, the successful PCSO acts as and liaised with outside neither is a PCSO,” he explained. their patch. and how it links in with the force’s This is a far cry from the initial ten Could You? tackle the problem. 01245 226585 with young victims and the “It is about meeting the public and getting Once they helped to apprehend two men radar, sensing the feel and mood of a PCSOs who took part in a pilot in Meanwhile, PCSO Daniel agencies. drive towards neighbourhood Could you become a PCSO and help police response in schools. more involved than you would if you were involved in an arson attack on a caravan. community.” Waltham Abbey and Loughton in early z Maylin was allocated an “He has ‘owned’ it and Safer biking days The conference is free and inside. “We noticed two men running away from the policing. Highly motivated 2003, under the supervision of Insp reassure your local community? incident about fireworks supplied an excellent open to Essex Police officers “We deal with incidents and identify caravan, with a light on. We caught them and What people want Rick found the PCSOs he talked to to Glenn Mayes – who is now PCSO Salaries start at around £21,000, being sold to underage service.” BIKESAFE Essex starts and staff, partner profes- problems in the area we patrol. We can make waited for back-up so they could be arrested. “PCSOs are doing what the people be highly motivated and many aspired project manager for the force. which includes shift, weekend and youths in Harlow. Daniel enjoyed his work so again on April 21. sionals and young people. a difference by what we can do for them and “Then the caravan went up in flames.” want to see and they work in an to become police officers later on but With 133 PCSOs being recruited this London allowances. Daniel looked up the much he is now training as Riders pay £60 and spend a Essex Police nominations are solve things, too.” For Mark and Frazer, being a PCSO is about integrated way with neighbourhood there was a drawback – police officers’ financial year, at a rate of around 11 a For more information about the role of offences that had been a probationary constable. day with Essex Police riders being made via divisions. Mark and Frazer were out on patrol in getting results. “If we are not, then we don’t officers,” says Rick. lack of knowledge of the PCSO role, month, and 289 in 2007/08, Glenn has a PCSO, visit www.essex.police.uk committed and then liaised All the 41 PSCOs in the new and local instructors. They However, if you have any Purfleet last June, a couple of days after the consider we are doing the job,” said Mark. “They are definitely not ‘plastic police’ despite ‘overwhelming positive got a huge job on his hands. click on recruitment and then click on with Trading Standards at Western Division are also have their riding assessed and are shown how to reduce the contacts with partner robbery, when they spotted a vehicle which “Our high visibility makes a difference or ‘kiddie crime cops’ as some try to support’ for them from their police But a recruitment evening in community support Essex County Council, branching out and holding agencies or young people likelihood of being involved in had been posted on ‘intel’ and for which they because people are aware of us being around. portray them.” officer supervisors. December revealed how much interest z Who are our new district requesting they carry out a their own community aged between 13 and 18 who had been asked to keep an eye out. “They stop and chat or phone us about The main conclusion Rick comes to is He warns against ‘mission creep’ there is in becoming a PCSO – more test purchase at the shop ‘surgeries’ where residents a crash. Last year, 108 riders you think may wish to “It went past us and we followed it, while problems because they know who we are. that PCSOs in Essex are providing where PCSOs seek to step outside than 200 recruitment packs were commanders and crime managers? concerned. can raise concerns about completed Bikesafe. attend, contact the PEPYS calling for assistance,” recalled Mark. “Our results are down to local knowledge.” significant positive public reassurance their role, starting to respond to handed out. See Page 10 The test purchase was problems which affect them. z Visit www.bikesafe.co.uk office on 01245 457245 or ext and click on Essex Police for 52031or email Ruth Collin. more details 8 The Law, March 2006 Law Classifieds Holiday lets nestling in the foothills of the moun- tains of Tuscany. Breathtaking views. ALANYA, Turkey. Two-bedroomed Perfect base – one hour to Florence, apartment in tranquil setting, sleeps Pisa and Riviera. Ring 07919 six, air-conditioned, 150 yards from 057437 or visit www.tuscanlife.co.uk Kevin leaves Med beach, shared pool. Two hours WELLS-next-the-Sea, Norfolk, from ski slopes. £200 per week. charming, traditional cottage, sleeps Ring Roy on 07803 522737. four and two, walk to quayside and COSTA Blanca, La Marina, luxury shops. Courtyard garden, private villa, two bed, two bath, sleeps four parking. Lovely beach and walks. to six, heating, air conditioning, Ring 07919 057437. communal pool. Beach five mins, BLUEBIRD holiday caravan for golf ten mins, airport 25 mins. From sale, St Leonard’s, Hants. 36x12ft, £150 per week. Ring Mick Ager on Flats and caravans Brentwood 07775 676142 or 00 34 617 110 096 or email [email protected] two bedrooms en suite, fully- FLORIDA, luxury four-bed villa, pri- fitted/equipped, incl bedding, mains vate pool near Disney and golf. Calor. Two parking spaces. 11 Police discount. For free brochure, months access, pools/fitness/ contact Jill on 01702 586092 or visit leisure, rental potential. £14,950 www.my-florida-villa.net ovno. Ring Mike Hughes on 01491 FLORIDA, new, luxury five-bed villa, 874171. sleeps 12, three beds en suite, fully FURNISHED studio flat, Danbury, after six years air-conditioned, games room, pri- for single person, non-smoker, with vate pool, Jacuzzi, spa. Disney and parking. £350 per calendar month. golf, ten mins. Ten per cent discount Ring 01245 222234 or 07712 AFTER six years at South- for police staff. Visit www.floridianre- 535101. West Major Investigation Names in the news treat.com SHENFIELD High Street, flat for Team in Brentwood, Senior FLORIDA, Orlando. Four-bedroom, rent, within a minute of mainline sta- where the parish council gave him a Former inspector Harold Investigating Officer Det certificate of appreciation when he Holliday has died aged 91. He pool home overlooking water in tion. Fully furnished, two double Supt Kevin Macey is left. He leaves the DIU Crime Desk served from 1935 to 1965 at quiet location. £450-£550 per week. bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen and at Clacton to enjoy the summer Chelmsford, Brentwood and Harlow. Close to golf, Disney and airport. lounge-diner. Available now, moving on. aboard his yacht and racing dinghy His funeral took place at his home Video available. Contact Pete or £750pcm. Contact Sally Norris via He has taken over as Director Linda on 01245 321378 or email of Specialist Investigations at sailing off the east coast and the town of Beccles in Suffolk. email or on ext 30444. Southend Borough officer Gwen- [email protected] HQ. Netherlands. HONDA CBR 600FS motorcycle, doline Charles from Southend, who FLORIDA, Orlando, luxury three- Kevin started out life as a Pc in Roger Mallett retired earlier this Sept 2001, winning red, MoT, taxed month after serving one day short of retired as a sergeant after serving 25 bed villa, private pool, sleeps six- Grays-Thurrock in 1979, working his Cars and bikes 32 years. years, has died, aged 80. eight. Close to Disney. From £350 a way up through the ranks to become The former sergeant had served at Brenda Turtell, widow of former week. Contact John De’ath on an SIO seven years ago. to November 2006, fully serviced. Harlow and Colchester, before Det Chief Insp Edward Turtell, has 01245 493800. £3,000 ono. View at Hatfield “It’s time for a change and a wonderful opportunity to stay within finishing his policing career at died aged 101. Mrs Turtell received FRANCE, Pays de la Loire, stone Peverel. Ring 01245 380780. Tendring and as the longest-serving flowers and cards, including a letter cottage sleeps two to four. Beams, VOLVO 940 Wentworth Estate, major investigations and share some of my experience while, hopefully, officer in the division. from the Chief Constable, on woodburner, quiet location with lots 1993, auto white, MoT to February Paul Gamman, 49, retired as a reaching her century in 2004. nearby. Calais five hours, Caen two 2007, luxury motoring. £575 ono. adding value through reviews and working in the overall team. police officer but then promptly Searching for friends hours. Contact Emma Bowditch on Ring 01245 380780. returned to become a coroner’s officer 07711 421579. 42-in Thomson TV and DVD player “I’m also looking forward to work- The daughter of retired officer Eric at Hadleigh. Caley is looking for former friends LA MANGA, southern Spain, two- bought 18 months ago for £1,100. ing with the expertise in child abuse investigations and scientific support,” The former sergeant had served and colleagues of her father as he bedroom/two bathroom apartment. Miscellaneous just under 31 years’ across all four Pool, panoramic sea views, seconds added Kevin. approaches his 80th birthday next Taking over at Brentwood is Det divisions in the south of the county. month. from beaches. Well-reported in Quick sale required. A real bargain Trevor Hall has called it a day 2005. For 2006 availability, ring Supt Keith Garnish, 43, who has Jean Thomas has memories of at £400 ono. Contact Paul with the force after just over 30 many happy years living at Copford Bernie on 01787 370317 or on transferred after 23 years in the Woodcock on 07838 199680. years. police station with her father before 07986 098422. Metropolitan Police. ALL-in-one CD-mixer system. Used The 49-year-old constable had been he was transferred to Clacton. She ORLANDO, luxury villa, four bed- twice since bought in November, After duty as a constable in Leyton and West End Central, Keith became serving his last few years the says he was a very dedicated officer rooms, three bathrooms, sleeps up includes speakers, headphones and Camera Enforcement Office in who served with the 6th Brigade of to ten, near Disney and other central microphone. Bought brand new for a detective in 1989, spending all his time since in east London. Billericay after several years at Paras before joining the force in 1948 Florida attractions. Contact Alison £175. £75 ono. Contact Paul Colchester and as a traffic officer. and she is arranging a small and Michael on 01245 266949 and Woodcock on 07838 199680. He was an SIO specialising in murder cases but says that coming to The force said goodbye to Graham celebration for his birthday. 01376 573406. GOOD homes wanted for cats and Essex will allow him to ‘bring some of Banks, 48, after he retired following She would like to contact Chris SOUTHERN Spain, Torre del Mar, kittens. Ring Miss Parsonson on those skills and learn further by 30 years’ service. Jacobs who was stationed at airport 30 mins, three double-bed- 01206 864284. The former detective constable had Colchester as her father worked with roomed apartment, two bathrooms. dealing with other types of crime and TECTIC all-leather duty shoes, looking at strategic perspectives’. served at Colchester, Tendring and and was best friend to his father Sky TV, terrace, pool and parking. women’s size 5, C/D fitting. Worn Mobile Support divisions, before Dennis Jacobs fondly known as Jake. Golf, beach and shops five mins. Leaving the force last month after twice. £20. Ring 01245 468495. 30 years was Ds Dave Hudson, 55, ending his police career at Anyone with information is asked Booking for spring and summer on THREE-piece suite in navy blue who is moving to Suffolk with his Chelmsford. to contact The Law editor Heather 01621 838179 or 00 34 650 124 382. leather, three-seater and two chairs, family. Basildon waved goodbye to one of Turner. We also pass on our best TUSCANY, Italy. Romantic, rustic, £350 ono. Contact Wayne Veal on The 55-year-old began his policing its more high-profile officers when wishes to Eric Caley on reaching his Medieval romantic village retreat 07723 374013 or via email. career in Grays, moving to Basildon 55-year-old Henry Garrod retired ninth decade. and Brentwood, before returning to after nearly 26 years’ service. Awards his roots to finish in the The former constable had served in A community constable has been BLOCK LETTERS PLEASE – ONE WORD PER BOX Investigation Support Unit. He has Rayleigh before joining Basildon awarded a prestigious award for his also completed a stint with the where he finished his career as the work in frontline policing in Regional Crime Squad. community policing officer on the Colchester. Dave cites his work in CID has Craylands Estate. Pc Colin Bishop, of Colchester’s being the highlight, with particular Jacqueline McBurney became of Southern Community Policing Team, emphasis on the inquiry into the the few member of police staff to was given the police prize at the fatal stabbing of Glen Sharpe in a have retired from the force after annual dinner of the Association of Grays pub in January 2002, which completing nearly 25 years’ service. the Protection of Property and subsequently led to two brothers The 59-year-old concluded her Prosecution of Thieves – known as being sentenced to life in jail for mur- Essex Police career in the the Thieves. der. intelligence office at Southend. Colin was nominated for the Pc Paul Hughes, 49, has left Obituaries quantity and quality of his arrests Maldon Community Policing Team Pc Caroline Houlding, 48, lost and detections, as well as his work in (CPT) after serving for 30 years and her year-long battle with cancer and cutting anti-social behaviour. seven months. died at the end of January. She Thieves Secretary Jim Wellerd He started out at Colchester before worked for 27 years in the said: “He is judged to have been the moving to the Force Support Unit Chelmsford and Rayleigh divisions. best constable of the year in his where he became one of the first Her funeral was held in her home frontline work, judged by his peers to members of the new firearms shifts. town of Tolleshunt D’Arcy and the have carried out his duties most Paul spent 13 years at Stanway church was filled by senior officers, professionally.” Traffic, training as a defensive friends and colleagues who also Colin said: “I’m really pleased to driver. He has driven Princess Anne formed a guard of honour. have been given this award. My three times as well as the then A collection in aid of the Jefferson colleagues and I will continue work- Duchess of York and Duchess of Ward at the Essex County Hospital ing hard for the community, and it’s Kent. in her memory is being co-ordinated nice to be acknowledged.” Name and rank ...... Following three years in Kent, Paul through the Admin department at Insp Keith Jones said: “This is the returned to Maldon, where he spent Rayleigh. second award for Colin in the past 12 a happy time with the CPT. Sgt Keith Harvey said: “Caroline months, and well deserved. He Station ...... Home tel...... On retirement he will concentrate was a pleasure to work with. She was works hard and gets exceptional on his domestic oven-cleaning popular and respected by her results.” Date ...... Signed ...... business. colleagues and provided the level of Firearms Office Manager Mick Send to The Editor, The Law, Press Office, Essex Police HQ. A career spanning 30 years is being service to the public that we should Fidgeon has been awarded the left behind for the joys of sailing and all aspire to. She will be greatly Territorial Army Regimental Green z Advertisers should be aware that The Law is now published on the internet and any racing by Pc John Summerfield missed.” Tie for actions above and beyond duty. telephone numbers given will be in the public domain. who retired last month. Carol Lucking lost her fight He joins a select band of his He started at Chelmsford then the against cancer last month. The 60- colleagues as only a handful of these Only adverts from those directly connected to Essex Police (either serving or retired) will be accepted. Adverts should be restricted to a maximum of 24 words and repeat ads remainder of his career was spent in year-old former housekeeping ties have been awarded by the should be re-submitted on a monthly basis. The Law team reserves the right to edit or omit north-east Essex. assistant had been a member of the Territorial Army Colonel since the any advert which doesn’t meet these criteria. One of the highlights was his time training centre team for almost 30 first one was awarded to a private in spent as local beat officer at St Osyth years. 1933. The Law, March 2006 9

THE POLICE FEDERATION UNSECURED PERSONAL LOAN SCHEME

TYPICAL 6.9%APR FIXED For our best ever rate, click here.

As a Police Federation member, there’s now an easier way to get a loan with a great rate. Just go to www.hdb.co.uk/police As well as a competitive rate, applying online means: • fixed and affordable repayments • no administration charges • no penalty for lump sum repayments • quick and easy application • you can use the online loan calculator to see how much you want to borrow and decide the most suitable payment option for your needs • all this from a provider you can trust If you’d prefer to call us to apply, that’s no problem. Just call 0800 71 65 66, quoting reference 97056 and your Force. Unfortunately, we won’t be able to give you our exclusive online rate over the phone. Apply now at www.hdb.co.uk/police

© HFC Bank Limited February 2006. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Hamilton Direct Bank, a division of HFC Bank Limited, is a trading name of HFC Bank Limited. HFC Bank Limited, registered in England No. 1117305, Registered Office: North Street, Winkfield, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 4TD is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. 10 The Law, March 2006

Central Division Central Division Central Division Central Division Central Division Eastern Division Crime Manager Braintree District Commander Uttlesford District Commander Chelmsford District Commander Maldon District Commander Crime Manager DCI Ewen Wilson, 34 Chief Insp Mark Schofield, 43 Chief Insp Graham Stubbs, 41 Chief Insp Craig McGarrigle, 47 Chief Insp Craig Robertson, 49 DCI Iain Logan, 44 Served for 13 years, previously Served for 19 years, Served for 20 years, Served for 28 years, previously Served for 27 years, previously Served for 27 years, previously Operations Manager in the previously Support Manager in previously worked on the Operations Manager in the Support Manager in the former Operations Manager in the former Chelmsford Division the former Braintree Division Regional Restructuring Project former Chelmsford Division Chelmsford Division former Colchester Division and for HQ Executive Support

Western Division Eastern Division Crime Manager Colchester District DCI Ivor Harvey, Commander 45 Chief Insp Steve Served for 23 Johnson, 34 years, previously Served for 15 DCI for the former years, previously Harlow Division DI with Colchester CID

Western Division Eastern Division Harlow District Tendring District Commander Commander Chief Insp Stuart Chief Insp Steve Ashton, 41 Robinson, 39 Served for 9 years Served for 18 with Essex Police years, previously and with the Met for worked for staff 13 years, previously development at Operations Manager Essex Police for the former Training Centre Braintree Division

Western Division South-Eastern Epping District Division Commander Crime Manager Chief Insp Jon DCI Michelle Hill, 47 Farrant, 39 Served for 26 Served for 16 years, previously years, previously Support Manager DCI at Rayleigh for the former z Rochford District Harlow Division Commander TBA

Western Division South-Western Division South-Western Division South-Western Division South-Eastern Division South-Eastern Division Brentwood District Commander Crime Manager Thurrock District Commander Basildon District Commander Southend District Commander Castle Point District Commander A/Chief Insp Piers Quinnell, 33 DCI Adrian Tyson, 43 Supt Steve Tutton, 49 Supt Glenn Caton, 43 Chief Insp Steve Worron, 34 Chief Insp Tracy Hawkings, 44 Served for ten years, Served for 23 years, previously Served for 26 years, previously Served for 26 years, previously Served for 11 years, previously Served for 18 years, previously previously acting Operations crime manager for Thurrock Head of Community Safety at Deputy Divisional Commander programme co-ordinator within DI on Rayleigh Major Manager at Harlow district HQ of the former Basildon Division HQ Corporate Support Investigation Team Going live across the county What the public wants ST Andrew’s and St Anne’s OFFICERS in Eastern have made 19 arrests, are applying for policing style success is our aim to restructuring. Appointing these vital in Colchester and Waltham Division believe the an Anti-Social Behaviour Order deal with all incidents in the neigh- roles is integral to the neighbourhood Abbey are the first two (ASBO) and are in the process of pro- bourhood. In three weeks, we received policing work we are rolling out at the neighbourhoods to go live. Neighbourhood Policing ducing seven Anti-Social Behaviour over 300 calls from the community moment, with an emphasis on Each of the new five divi- model will continue to Contracts (ABCs). and the team was able to attend 91 community-focused and visible policing. sions will have one ‘pilot’ make ‘good progress’ A number of police operations are in per cent of these incidents. This is real “We want to continue to work neighbourhood, with the following a review of the progress, with officers combating proof that the community we serve successfully with communities and others coming on stream by criminal damage and vehicle crime. are having their issues dealt with by local partners to significantly reduce the summer. first three weeks’ work Sgt Dean Chapple said: “Operation their dedicated Neighbourhood crime, nuisance and disorder.” Braintree’s neighbourhood since its implementation in Milton will continue until the end of Team.” Essex Police Authority chairman policing team was due to Colchester. March as we aim to reduce the num- z ESSEX Police has appointed its Robert Chambers said: "I am delight- have its media launch on Neighbourhood Policing was ber of criminal damage incidents. We District Commanders as part of the ed that we have now appointed these Thursday, March 9, with introduced to the town’s St have stop-checked 82 people so far ongoing force restructure. new officers. The District Com- Tilbury five days later and and arrested one. We are also looking They will lead the new neighbour- manders play an essential role in Shoebury finishing off the Andrew’s and St Anne’s wards at to target vehicle crime, including hood policing teams – in conjunction building links with the community; pathfinders on April 7. the end of January, with initial untaxed cars and vans, using the with their CID colleagues, the new they will become the main point of z Information about neigh- results hailed as ‘promising and ANPR Intercept team as well as work- Crime Managers – at a district or contact for each district or borough. bourhood policing can be looking like a success’. ing closely with Colchester Borough borough council level. “This is another step towards found on the intranet under Since the team started, Council. Chief Constable Roger Baker said: delivering visible policing across the Divisions and Departments Neighbourhood Policing Team officers “One early indication of this new "This is a significant phase of force county, which is what the public wants.” The Law, March 2006 11 Sport & Leisure Triathletes Runners up among the prizewinners Hockey team urged to start THE 2005-2006 Police Regional Cross- Dave Willis, Gary Lane and Mark regulars Rachel Crosby, Lisa Bolton, wins a place Country Running League reached its Finbow, among others. Stacey Cockes, Pauline Bowers and conclusion in Norwich with Essex teams Similarly, in the Masters category, per- Diane Frew. their training coming highly-placed. sistence paid off to keep the team in Individually, Essex were also amongst in the finals THE two triathlons hosted Essex, the defending men’s champions third place behind Kent and Sussex. the prizewinners. After a slow start to ESSEX Police Men’s Hockey by the Essex Police Tri Club have had a far from easy season with a The battles between Chris Lacey, John the season, Russ Welch found his best team travelled to are fast-approaching and number of leading runners missing for Mackenzie, Jim Ling and Paul Fieldsend form – it was too late for the defending Staffordshire and, despite anyone interested in a place all or most of the winter due to injuries. were a regular feature, whilst the inde- champion to hold on to his title but only having ten men, beat needs to apply quickly. So it was pleasing to see a number of fategeable Laurie Rampling returned for enough to snatch the runners-up spot. Staffordshire 6-5 to win a The Basildon off-road event new faces battling away to ensure the another season. And, completing his first full season for place in the national PSUK is in Gloucester Park on team finished second overall behind the Not to be outdone, the women’s team Essex, John Mackenzie demonstrated finals. Sunday, May 14. It is part of usually strong Kent. also captured third place in one of the his class by claiming the M50 title. The result was an even the Croker Cup so entry is Regulars Russ Welch and Derek more competitive seasons for many z The regional championship was due greater achievement, said free. A 400m pool swim is Walker received vital support from Will years. to take place at Moat Park, Maidstone, team member Geordie followed by a 10km off-road Cubbin, Dan Sorrell, Tony Benjamin, Again it was down to persistence by Kent, on Wednesday, March 8. Tyson, considering two cycle and a 4km run. Relay players had just worked a teams are welcome. full night shift, The Braintree event is at A great team effort during Riverside Leisure Centre in Golden landing the February 22 match was Braintree on Sunday, June 4, led by Gaz Ingram, who incorporating the PSUK scored five of the goals, with National Sprint Triathlon is snow joke a sixth coming from Mark Championships. A 400m pool Shaw to seal the win. swim is followed by a 20km FOR a pair who don’t seem to train that Geordie said afterwards: road cycle and a 5km run. much, Melanie Warren and Marina Ericson’s “This was a real success by Again relay teams are medal haul from the PSUK snow sports the whole team who welcome. There is an entry contest is fantastic. deserved the result, having fee but Essex officers and Snowboarder Melanie finished in fine style – to make up for the missing staff who supply a being airlifted to hospital after going so fast in player through sheer helper/race marshal on the the boarder-cross race that she landed past physical effort. day are given free entry. the finish line in gold position on her backside “I would like to thank those Both events attract elite after ‘taking-off’ at the last jump. managers who did allow athletes plus novices and Thanks to her moto-cross padding she people time off. It was first-timers so why not take suffered bad bruising rather than breaking worthwhile.” the plunge? her back. Melanie also won gold and silver in The national PSUK finals Or maybe you could help to the dual slalom and slalom. She took up are due to be held in Essex marshal the event. snowboarding in 1999 but doesn’t train much later this year. although she used to compete professionally z For details or entry forms THREE of the force’s on the dry slope. z contact Kim Perks on ext hockey players are due to 50606 or visit Marina, 35, got two ski-ing bronzes – third in the giant slalom, fourth in the slalom and represent the national www.essex.police.uk/ PSUK team at a tournament triathlon third overall. “I don’t train at all,” confessed Maria, who skied when she was younger but at RN Portsmouth this now only skies on family holidays and in the month. The fish don’t PSUK indoor championships. Pc Gaz Ingram, Pc Lee Ward The Essex Police team was: Justin Davis, and Pc Lewis Smith were Marina Ericson, Steve Milbourne, Pat White, also all in the national bite for Bob z Pat White, Marina Ericson, Duncan Livingstone, from Hertfordshire Trevor Hall and Melanie Warren. They also squad for a competition at Police, Justin Davis and, foreground, Melanie Warren RAF Halton last month. THEY came last but Bob won a memorial shield as the ‘best of the rest’. Sandford said the police sea anglers put up a spirited Braintree top fight in the Combined BRAINTREE won the Services match held at Croker Cup Swimming Gala Slapton Sands in Devon at and has taken over the top the end of January. A convincing win into of the table from HQ. Despite the good weather, Colchester came second in the fish proved elusive and the swimming, followed by not many were caught on Basildon, HQ, Southend and either day. Bob, from Southend, fished Rayleigh, respectively. against the British teams for The Croker Cup table now the fire service, Army, Navy the cup quarter-finals reads: Braintree 62; HQ and the RAF plus the British 59; Colchester 58; Southend Sea Angling Match A CONVINCING win against players on the bench, too. The game keeper to make it 3-0 at half time. 45; Rayleigh 44; Basildon 41; Federation team. Thames Valley saw Essex started at a fast rate and the intentions Essex started the second half as they Harlow 36; Chelmsford 32; were clear within minutes – that Thurrock 15; and Tendring 9. It was the first time Bob had Police qualify for the had finished the first and were soon four been eligible to fish in the Thames Valley were going to challenge up when Paul Haylock went one on one So, with at least six more competition having won a quarter-finals of the National hard and close Essex down quickly. with the opposing keeper to score. events to go – including match earlier last year. Police Cup. The challenges were intimidating but He got his second minutes later, then darts, squash, tennis, snook- BSAMF won for the seventh They won the regional final 7-2 – Essex rode all the tackles and settled Simpson got his hat-trick and finally er, billiards and badminton – year running. including a hat-trick from Nicky well, getting on top of their game within midfielder Matt Noone scored the team’s it’s anybody’s guess who will z THIS year’s Croker Cup five minutes and talking and supporting seventh. finish on top. Simpson – at the AFC Newbury each other. Beach Competition is an ground in Berkshire. But Thames Valley never gave up and open match on May 15 from The pitch was uneven but Essex still scored two consolation goals near the Now the team is looking forward to managed to pass the ball well. They had Indoor success 11.30am-5pm on the Thames end of the game. at Tilbury Fort, open to playing Devon and Cornwall in the last already hit the post and then centre for- FIVE officers qualified for eight on Wednesday, March 15, at HQ ward Nicky Simpson finished off a good z A COUPLE of Essex Police players the national Indoor Games retired officers and fished in have been selected for national honours teams of two. Contact Dave sports field with a 2pm kick-off. move to put Essex one up. Championships after either Essex fielded one of their better sides Within ten minutes he again got the on the football pitch. winning or being given a bye Clark on 01702 332315 for Nicky Smith, of Chelmsford, and Nicky more details against Thames Valley, with a couple of better of Thames Valley back four to put in their discipline at the new players joining – including Nicky Essex two up. Simpson, of Harlow, were selected to rep- regional championships. Smith, assistant manager and captain of But Thames Valley pressed hard and resent the British Police team in a match Colin Hill, of Maldon, got Family cheers the England and the British Police forced goalie Nathan Munson to pull off against France. Sadly, they lost 5-1 on a through in the pool singles teams, who has transferred from Suffolk a very good save. very wet pitch. Peter Orpe, of Braintree, in Police. Shortly afterwards, from a corner at Smith has also been selected for the the billiards singles and Lee on Louise In fact the side now looks very well bal- the opposite end, Nicky Smith played in National PSUK football team in a match Heaton, of Brentwood, in the THE proud grandmother and anced with strength in depth, with good and Kev Hughes got in front of their against the Prison Service this month. snooker singles. parents of Louise Gamman, While Kieran Lally, of 22, will be cheering her on as Chelmsford, won through in she has been selected for the the table tennis singles and English Basketball squad to Geoff wins £3,000 in February lottery again in the men’s doubles, compete in the this time with Craig Commonwealth Games in THE winner of the £3,000 prize in the Stanway Major Investigation Team; Det Insp Philip Mellon, of Crime McGarrigle, also of Melbourne. February lottery draw, was Sgt Geoffrey Dc Peter Wood, of Stansted Airport; Division; Pc Daniel Taylor, of Harlow; Chelmsford. Marie Benjamin, who retired Knight, of Stansted Airport. Ray Stannard, of Maldon; Chief Insp Ray Stannard, of Maldon; Pc Alison 12 years ago as a domestic The £1,000 prize was one by Robert Mark Schofield, of Braintree; and Steve Finch, of Professional Standards; supervisor at Rayleigh, said Rogers, of Southend, and the £500 prize Terry, retired. Pc Andrea Ford, of Braintree; and Poor tackling she would be watching TV went to Pc Barry Edwards, of Stanway The winners of the £50 prizes were: Sgt Andrew Spink, of the HR Woodham Town 3-0 Essex Police avidly during the English Road Policing Unit. Pc Jonathan Davies-Brewin, of the Department. ESSEX Police Vets went games v Mozambique, Winners of £100 prizes were: Pc Cally Force Support Unit; Tracey Tremain, of The winners of the Benenden down 3-0 to Woodham Town Australia and India. Beale, of Basildon; Dc Terence Haines, the Force Information Room; David Healthcare teddy bears were: in the Greene King Essex Louise’s parents are Julie of HQ Crime Division; Dc Anita Taylor, King, of HQ Corporate Support; Pc Victoria Pratt, of Southend; Pc Gary Veterans’ league premier Gamman, 47, who served at of Brentwood CAIU; Det Insp Brian Pc David Graham, of Leigh on Sea; Jackson, of Westcliff; Chief Insp Craig division. Basildon and Benfleet as a Elkington, of Crime Division; Insp Albert Horne, retired; Robertson, of Chelmsford; Insp Paul Essex let their opposition Pc and Sgt Paul Gamman, Stephen Shoesmith, of HQ Corporate Dawn Flanagan, of Rayleigh; Peter Bartlett, of Dunmow; Pc Fiona control the game and pass who has just retired from the Support; Rosa Davies, of the Force Bridge, of the Force Information Room; Harrington, of Colchester; and Sgt Mark the ball without tackling in force. Information Room; John Wright, of Sgt Graham Rendell, of Harlow; Lonergan, of Southend. return. 12 The Law, March 2006 Thank you for the music, charities tell Essex Police choir CHARITABLE organisations across a hospice for 18 to 40-year-olds and announce whom we will support for not perform at concerts, leaving gaps and a chat. The choir tackles a Essex are saying ‘Thank you for the Essex Air Ambulance, which each the forthcoming year. in some areas of the choir. variety of music and, in a new Music’ for £15,000 raised by the received £2,000. “As you can see, our love of singing “These need to be filled by younger departure, for the second half of Essex Police Choir last year. And a one-off concert for The Mayor’s is benefiting the general public of members if the choir is to continue 2006 concerts will be dedicated to Each year, the choir performs Charity raised £3,000 – a total of Essex and raising the profile of and build on its already-established music from the musicals. around the county, raising funds for £7,000 from just three concerts. Essex Police.” reputation. z For more information, ring a variety of local charities. During And the final total was topped off Essex Police Choir was formed 16 “Please join the choir and continue Sylvia Bray on 01245 265144 2005, the total raised for these by £1,000 of donations which the years ago and is currently having a the good work,” she said. z ESSEX Police Choir’s first concert organisations amounted to £7,000. choir had been given during the year. recruitment drive. Rehearsals are held on Tuesday of the year is on Saturday, March 18, In addition, members hold an Publicity officer Elaine Beckett Elaine said: “We need new evenings in Essex Police Training at St Mary’s Church, Kelvedon, at annual concert and a Christmas said: “Choir members nominate members. The original members are School’s canteen at HQ, starting at 7.30pm, raising money for church concert for their own chosen charity. their chosen charities and, at our 16 years older and some have 7.45pm and finishing at 9.45pm, funds. Tickets cost £5 and are Last year, they chose two, The J’s, annual general meeting, we become associated members and do with a ten-minute break for a drink available on the door. Housing sale to help our Dennis is just no stranger to danger A RETIRED police officer is set to embark on a crime fight 30-mile trek across an American desert in aid of POLICE houses are to be charity later this year. sold off in the next three to Former chief inspector Dennis Rensch, 58, is five years in order to release preparing for yet another daredevil challenge, capital, which can then be with the latest taking him across Death Valley invested in crime-fighting in temperatures of near 50C. measures. The three-day walk in May will see him Officers who currently live beginning at dawn and finishing at midday in these properties are being before the temperature soars to over 80C. His given an opportunity by route will take him through salt flats, which are Essex Police Authority to buy described as ‘difficult walking conditions’ due to them. the mud and water. Three information evenings Mr Rensch is in training for this life-changing have already been held, expedition, with regular visits to a health club which included a present- where he has enrolled in a specialist ation from Moat Housing programme which includes cycling fully-clothed association on the options in a sauna. available to those officers. “This trek won’t be easy, especially when you Moat Housing offered one- consider that nearly 30 people die in the area to-one advice on a variety of each year,” said Mr Rensch. “However, I will be packages available for key backed up by Ian Nicholls, a member of workers, including access to Brentwood A’Becket Rotary Club and he will interest-free loans up to carry all the equipment in the support vehicle.” £50,000 and subsidised rent. Mr Rensch retired in June 2000 after 30 years’ A paper is due to be service, spending his final years as a chief presented to Essex Police inspector at Thurrock and Chelmsford. Authority on Monday, March He now lives in Brentwood and is hoping to 13, when the members will raise £20,000 for Brentwood Foyer – a charity consider all proposals and which helps young adults gain life skills ahead also what other financial of moving on to independent living. support, if any, can be made He is no stranger to danger, with previous available towards expenses z Former chief inspector Dennis Rensch and Rotary Club member Ian Nicholls confront one of the feats including a Mount Kilimanjaro climb and for those officers who wish to an expedition to the North Pole. buy a police house. dangers they may face during their Death Valley Challenge z Mr Rensch will feature in live broadcasts on Driver safety Picture courtesy of The Essex Chronicle Series BBC Essex’s Drivetime during his trek improving Jail terms for say officers Rettendon three have rapists are OFFICERS are beginning to witness a change in attitude among lorry drivers and increased firms following the latest operation to improve safety TWO men have had their on the county’s roads. jail terms increased after an their appeal dismissed aggravated burglary and sex A total of 39 checks were carried out on light goods’ attack in Saffron Walden LAST month Michael Steele, by Heather Watts month after the judgement was handed after Essex Police and the vehicles in Basildon last down. month, as part of Operation Jack Whomes and Peter CPS appealed against import cannabis. The case was referred He said: “The trial and subsequent ‘unduly lenient’ sentences. Mermaid. Corry had their appeals to the Criminal Cases Review appeals have shown that the original Seventeen were found to The men were tried at against conviction dismissed Commission (CCRC) in 2002 after an investigation was sound and robust. Chelmsford Crown Court comply with regulations but at the Court of Appeal. unsuccessful appeal by all three in the “The evidence was placed before the others were found to have last June following a Steele and Whomes are serving life Court of Appeal against their courts and subject to a rigorous process Brentwood MIT defects and to contravene convictions. sentences for the murders in 1995 of and the report following the investigation into an operating licences – 13 Following a direction by the CCRC, Hertfordshire inquiry provided no incident at a home in drivers had either no driving Pat Tate, Anthony Tucker and Craig made under the Criminal Appeals Act evidence to show that the original invest- Saffron Walden in 2004. licence or valid tax for their Rolfe, whose bodies were discovered 1995, Essex Police appointed igation was flawed. vehicle. in a Range Rover on a farm track off Hertfordshire Constabulary to conduct “We carried out our own investigation Three men had forced their Four were served with the A130 at Rettendon. inquiries into certain aspects of the case. of the points of appeal. The jury heard all way into premises armed notices to improve the condi- During the original trial in January The murders and subsequent appeal of the evidence and unanimously with knives and a firearm tion of their vehicles and five 1998 at the Central Criminal Court process attracted considerable media concluded that these men were guilty and wearing ‘Scream’ had been on the road for too Steele and Whomes, along with Corry, interest and Det Supt Kevin Macey and the Court of Appeal has now reached masks. Two women were many hours without a break. were also found guilty of conspiracy to spoke to the media outside the court last the same conclusion.” tied up and subjected to serious sexual assaults and rape, and money and property was stolen. Robbery campaign proves an X-ray-ted success But at the Royal Courts of Justice last month, OFFICERS in Loughton responded to drugs, drink-driving and stealing a The automatic number plate reader two specially-trained drugs dogs to 21-year-old Van Dong Vu a spate of knife robberies by running motor vehicle. (ANPR) was deployed, too. sniff out substances. had his nine-year a three-day operation using the latest The Home Office portable body Ds Werrett said: “The aim was to More than 200 people were concurrent sentence for mobile X-ray technology to identify scanner was mainly used outside tube address the concerns of the com- searched, four were arrested and aggravated burglary and those carrying weapons into Western stations. It is so effective it could also munity, to prevent, deter and detect several weapons and some drugs were rape increased to 12 years Division. detect concealed packages such as anyone carrying weapons or drugs recovered. while 19-year-old Hoang Le The successful operation, run by Ds cannabis. and to reduce the levels of crime.” z Officers in other divisions who had his seven-year Simon Werrett and a team of 30 During the operation, officers carried They mounted a second, two-day wish to know more about the Home concurrent sentence for officers, resulted in 17 people being out high-visibility patrols and stopped operation in the Loughton and Office portable body scanner can ring aggravated burglary, arrested for various offences such as and searched people suspected of Debden areas, targeting knives and Western comms officer Denise indecent assault and theft robbery, carrying offensive weapons, carrying offensive weapons. drugs, again using the scanner and Harvey on ext 20882 increased to nine.

NEXT ISSUE: April 2006 COPY DEADLINE: March 24, 2006 PRINTED: March 3, 2006 The Law is edited by Heather Turner tel: 01245 491491 ext 50620 Published by Essex Police HQ, Chelmsford, Essex Printed by Northcliffe Press, Derriford, Plymouth