The Law www.essex.police.uk CiB Anglia Communic8 2008 awards winner – best small internal publication March 2009 Anglia CIPR PRide awards 2008 finalist – best newspaper or magazine HIGH-TECHNew system in use at crash sites METHODS is accurate to one centimetre KEEPING ROADS SAFE

by Bill Stock ROAD crash investigators in Essex are using high-tech satellite-navigation surveying equipment to help them carry out faster and more detailed examinations at the scene of fatal and serious injury inci- dents. The £60,000 global positioning system (GPS) technology, which is accurate to within one centimetre, has been given to the Traffic Investigation Unit (TIU) by the Highways Agency. GPS allows officers to make detailed measure- ments while crashed vehicles are still in situ, whereas in the past they had to wait for wreckage to be cleared to make line-of-sight calculations. The time saving means that investigations at large crash scenes on motorways and trunk roads can be Sgt Richard carried out more quickly and reduce road-closure times. Raker, of the TIU officers are also hoping to be able to use further Traffic advanced technology soon to produce animations Investigation showing how crashes happen. Advanced computer Unit at software, currently being pioneered by Humberside Police, will allow officers to turn data gathered at Boreham crash scenes into ‘video’ clips which can be shown in court. And TIU officers are due to visit Humberside this month to find out more about the system, which will also further enhance their complex work at crashes. Picture by When called to crash scenes, TIU officers gather Duncan physical evidence, survey the site, record skids marks Thurlwell and gouges in the road surface, consider weather conditions and check vehicles for defects. Later, the team might re-create an accident or carry out skid tests on a specialist track at Dunton. Although officers have the grim task of viewing bodies at crash scenes, their work helps to prevent other accidents. Sgt Richard Raker, who heads the team, said: “We have to get to crash scenes quickly to preserve evi- dence and usually take three to four hours to do our work. But recently, one fail-to-stop fatal crash called for a 24-hour road closure. “Members of the public do not appreciate why roads are closed for such a long time. But when it does happen, we are the officers on scene and we hope that our work and investigations will ultimately help to make our roads safer.” The TIU normally recruits road policing officers from Mobile Support Division but this year, for the first time, applications have been opened up to officers anywhere in Essex. Sgt Raker added: “We are looking for motivated people. A background in engineering or any sort of technical degree would be an advantage but is not essential.”  To apply to join, contact Sgt Raker at the TIU at Boreham 2 The Law, March 2009 News New recruits are aiming high

Ambition for policing in Essex OPERATION Apex – the ambition for policing in Essex – has already secured £4.7million to recruit an additional 110 police officers between September 2008 and the end of this month – with a further 490 to come in the next three or four years.  Pc Jamie Toleman   Pc James Rist  Some of the new officers have Pc Richard English Pc Samuel Board already finished their basic train- wanted variety in a job. Essex the standard of neighbour- colleagues is to ensure that Essex Former actor and drama teacher ing and are serving the public on “The police service gives the hood policing and customer service Police achieves the best standards of Pc Samuel Board has been posted opportunity of working with people they deserve. any force in the UK and to further to Loughton. the front line. in the community to make a differ- “I hope to assist by working to improve public satisfaction and con- He chose to join the force “because Media and communications ence. achieve the aims of Operation Apex fidence by ensuring that Essex of its large recruitment drive and manager Kate Batson asks them “I chose Essex Police because I felt and offer the best standard of polic- Police builds upon its successful the fact that Essex Police is a well- why they joined Essex Police and that, as I am part of the community ing to Essex communities as much foundations, especially those provid- respected force in the UK and I of Essex, it was my best opportunity as I can, providing professionalism ed by its successful ACTION initia- wanted to be part of a strong team what they hope to achieve while to offer a service to that community and good customer service, so that tive.” with a strong drive. working with us. and to help make Essex a safer Essex residents can have a police Pc James Rist has been posted to “I also like the location and the county in which to live.” service to be proud of.” Pitsea. Before joining the force, he rural, coastal and urban areas that NOW based at South Woodham Operation Apex has given Essex Pc Richard English is based in worked in customer services for make up the county. On a personal Ferrers, Pc Jamie Toleman previ- Police the opportunity to recruit Colchester, having previously energy firm E.ON and was also a level, I thought it would offer me the ously worked for 22 months as a worked as an advertising field sales special constable in South Western opportunity to challenge myself. PCSO in the Braintree district. these officers, but how is the representative for the East Anglian Division for two and a half years. “I am boosted by the large intake Before that he was a student programme of work perceived? Daily Times and Evening Star news- He joined Essex Police as he was of 600 officers because it shows that studying law, economics and Pc Toleman says: “Operation Apex papers, based in Ipswich. aware of the force’s reputation as Essex Police has the drive and com- psychology. has vastly boosted opportunities in He joined Essex Police to “help the one of the best in the UK and decid- mitment to reduce crime and He says: “I joined Essex Police policing. community and to make a differ- ed that “I wanted to be part of it”. increase public safety in all areas. because it is one of the very few jobs “Not only has it opened the doors ence”. He said: “I wasn’t able to juggle Being at Essex Police College for my that still offer a lifetime career. for promotion and specialist roles He added that the announcement the work-life balance of being a training and seeing a new intake of “The opportunities in the police but it has also provided the opport - of Operation Apex had been a “great special and working shifts with officers start every six weeks is very are second to none. A commonly- unity for those who wish to be police boost”. E.ON. reassuring because it shows that the used cliché but one that is true is officers to get out there on front-line He said: “Not only will Operation “Following my first 18 weeks of facts and figures are being imple- that every day is different and I police duties to offer the people of Apex ensure that police resources are training, I aim to reach a high level mented.” not put under of skill which will assist me to work Pc Board’s ambitions include one unnecessary effectively in the vast, changing - to join the Dog Unit. strain but it will communities of Essex.” He added: “Through training, I also provide He added: “The recruitment of 600 hope to achieve the knowledge and greater opport - extra officers by Essex Police will understanding to start my career unities to recruits help to strengthen shifts and act with confidence. I know I will be like me who are positively in allowing us to provide a learning every day for the rest of my looking to move more visible and reassuring pres- life when it comes to policing so to up the promo- ence on the streets. have a good start is essential. tional ladder or “I feel that the knock-on effect of “In the future I would like to specialise. this presence will make offenders explore different areas of policing “The main aim think twice before committing crime and aim to be part of the Dog Unit of me and my on our patch.” one day.” Operational security is priority for this former SOCA officer A NEW officer has been recruited by Essex As the OPSY, he must look objectively at the Police to give advice and guidance on main- handling of investigations regarding such taining high standards during investigations issues as covert resource management, and operations. intelligence-gathering, the quality of Leigh Kirkby, a former senior officer in the intelligence, the security of the case and the Serious and Organised Crime security of file-keeping and Agency (SOCA), has been documents. appointed as the force’s first He will focus on, identify and OPSY or Operational Security take forward best practice in Officer. intelligence-handling and Mr Kirkby previously served operational security, thus pro- 20 years in Essex Police at viding a quality-assurance role Southend, Harlow and Grays in in respect of both covert and uniform and with overt operational activity. divisional/sub-divisional CID. Mr Kirkby said he was used He was also posted to the Force to the concept, having worked Support Unit, the Crime with OPSYs in many of the Operations Unit, the Child operations he ran while work- Abuse Investigation Unit and ing for SOCA and its forerun- the Major Investigation Section. ner, the National Crime Squad. His job is to advise divisional  OPSY Leigh Kirkby “I will be able to provide a units, command teams, special- fresh set of independent eyes to ist units and senior officers over issues of look at incidents and operations and highlight legality, integrity, ethical conduct and stan- best practice and provide advice and guidance dards of covert and overt operations, while when it might be necessary,” he said. also contributing to the overall effectiveness “If there is a problem or an area where of those operations. officers might need independent advice I will Mr Kirkby, who retired from SOCA in be able to help and give advice on tactics November as head of operations counter- regarding legislation and operational security corruption, at a rank equivalent to detective compliance.” superintendent, said: “It is a completely new Mr Kirkby will also liaise with other OPSYs role for Essex and many officers might not around the country and hold regular meetings know what the role entails,. to pass on ideas and tactics so that good “But many other forces have OPSYs after practice is shared around a national network. they were given the approval of Her Majesty’s  Contact Leigh Kirkby at HQ on ext 54101 Inspectorate for Constabulary.” or via email News The Law, March 2009 3 PCSO sheds light on the world of work Sharing A HARWICH PCSO is taking time out of his busy schedule to pass on life experience skills to a group of teenagers. PCSO Ray Aylott is holding workshops for Year 11 pupils at The Harwich School, designed to help them get on the college course they want or bag the  of ‘critical’ job they fancy. PCSO PCSO Aylott is drawing on his experience as a company director for a Ray Aylott software house in Ipswich, before he joined the force. is sharing policing He said: “I am trying to help pupils improve their interviewing skills for his life ACC Derek Benson joined when they go out in to the big wide world, so I’m working with them on mock senior police officers from interviews and giving them feedback. experience across the country at the first “This will help them with applying for college courses as well as getting work with pupils ACPO Interoperability when they leave.” in Harwich Seminar. Assistant headteacher Brenda Westwood said the workshops had proved a The Association of Chief success and had proved very helpful. Police Officers put on the “It also helps to build up a positive relationship between the police and the seminar to ensure the police You can help young people,” she added. service was able to reflect on all the learning that has taken place following the youngsters shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes in Stockwell on July 22, 2005 and to identify and out of Catch22 ‘Our policy is to reduce meet the operational challenges currently facing it. situations Mr Benson, who holds the THE force is working with Protective Services portfolio, national charity Catch22 to said: “The seminar proved to help young people who find policies by two-thirds’ be extremely beneficial as it themselves in difficult allowed the opportunity to situations. by Heather Watts share knowledge and exper - Catch22 representatives ience with colleagues from are based in police stations GENERAL policy guidelines around the country. across the county and are “It showed that our trained to work with young will be easier to find and use firearms capacity and people and their families to following the streamlining capability in Essex is well prevent them getting into process currently taking established and has been worse situations. achieved due the hard work place by the new Policy  Policy One arm of the charity is Development Section. and expertise of our officers the React and Rapid Action development New groupings and a numbered and police staff. Project, which places out- manager “We will continue to review reach workers in police index have been created for General our plans and operating stations so they can provide Policy Guidelines and any procedure Peter Hood procedures to ensure we rapid assistance to young supporting the policy has an index reviewing continue to deliver the highest people aged between ten and number label, which will always policy late possible standard of service.” 16 who have no involvement keep the same number. into the South Yorkshire Chief with other agencies. As part of the streamlining process the night Constable Meredydd Hughes, It only operates in Essex Policy Development Section – part of the ACPO lead for Uniformed and two other areas of the Corporate Development Department – Operations, said ACPO was country – Greenwich and has identified all Policy Guidelines determined to ensure that Lewisham and on the Isle of (Greens) and all sections within General every opportunity to learn Wight – and is funded by the Policy Guidelines and given each of them and improve the way the Big Lottery Fund. an ‘owner’. police service responded to When a Catch22 represent- The ‘owners’ will then be contacted to unprecedented and critical ative is contacted, they find out if the policy ‘belongs’ to them, is Cartoon by situations was seized and endeavour to meet the young still relevant or is out of date and Simon Coxall acted on. person within five working whether it needs restructuring, rewriting “Nationally, the police days and learn about their or deleting. service today looks markedly problems and the reasons The finished result should be a broad different to how it was in behind them. They find out policy, with a number of procedures 2005, with, for example, a about that person’s worries listed beneath, which identifies exactly national structure of and aspirations and help them what police officers and staff need to do counter-terrorism policing to develop an action plan to to provide a quality service to the public. units in place,” he said. get them back on track. The aim is to provide a less bureau- “But there remains more to They aim to help young cratic system with an approximate be done to ensure that we people build confidence and two-thirds reduction in the number of particularly useful when getting up to there to help. Mr Hood said: “Please come continue to learn both from skills and make positive policies necessary. speed on the first day in a new job. and see us early on if you feel you need to the inquiries and invest- choices for their future. All policies and procedures will be Where appropriate, the revamped policy write a policy or procedure as we can igations which followed the Families are also support- reviewed as and when necessary but at will be available to the public on the inter- give you guidance that may save you tragic events of July 2005, ed in ways which might least every three years. net – along with any new procedural unnecessary work before the policy gets and from ongoing experience include mediation between Future developments will include a guidelines –giving them details of what to the consultation process.” of policing operations. them and the young person, new document storage system software, service we provide and how we do it.  Templates for writing policies and “This event brought together provision of access to drop-in capable of flagging up when the reviews Policy development manager Peter procedures, along with guidance notes, the senior officers with that services and advice on how to are due – it is hoped the software will Hood said: “Officers need to be aware can be found on the Corporate experience and was a key strengthen relationships. also be able to identify policies or that we say what we do so we need to do Development intranet site – click on stage in the police service’s Referrals can be made to procedures according to an individual’s what we say.” Programme, Planning, Policy and then continued response to that Catch22 by police officers as role within the force, which could prove The Policy Development Section is on Policy Development challenge.” well as by parents or the young person themselves, schools, children’s services and Victim Support.  For more information Crime reduction advice is a hi-tech ‘first’ about Catch22 its work, visit www.catch-22.org.uk A NEW podcast webpage, containing informative Jack said he approached the police “because the they want to receive the alerts: by email to a React project contacts: crime reduction messages in the form of download- work they do is exciting and interesting”. computer, by text to a mobile phone, or by landline Chelmsford district – Glen able ‘radio ad-style’ podcasts has been launched by South Eastern media communications co- telephone. Winterbourne 07764 810732 Southend’s Crime and Disorder Reduction ordinator Julia Pack said the aim was to convey Information provided will include the latest crime or Hilary Morgan (Mondays) Partnership (CDRP). crime reduction messages in a way that’s different and crime reduction trends, crime reduction advice 07795 447202 This innovative and unique approach to and appealing to the target audiences. and alerts, such as the presence of bogus callers in Clacton district – vacant, promoting crime reduction messages is a first for  Listen to the podcasts by visiting the neighbourhood. contact Glen Winterbourne Essex and is also understood to be a first for any www.southendcdrp.co.uk and clicking on Podcasts Subscribers will also receive news of their local Rapid Action Project CDRP in the UK.  AND Castle Point district is blazing a trail for neighbourhood policing team. (RAP) contacts: Three podcasts are so far available, on the improved communication between police and the Castle Point district commander Chief Insp Paul Rochford and Castle Point subjects of staying safe, knife crime and bogus public with a hi-tech messaging service. Eveleigh said: “Communication with the community districts – Alex Ketley callers. Each podcast involves a short dramatisation The district is trialling the service – which keeps is fundamental to good policing and this develop- 07766 508678 and lasts between 60 and 90 seconds. residents up to date about crime and policing issues ment takes our relationship with the public to an Basildon district – Jayne They were the brainchild of 18-year-old Jack in their area – for three months to test its feasi bility. entirely new level. Woodruff 07738 040787 Warren, a final-year BND Radio Production student If the pilot scheme is a success, the force will look “It supplements our existing lines of commun - Uttlesford district – Jane at South East Essex College. at rolling it out across the county. ication and will provide additional, timely updates Wilson 07796 442975 He approached the media communications team at Members of Castle Point Neighbourhood Watch about crime and community issues. Harlow and Epping Forest Southend police station about producing the pod- and other interested people can register and receive “As a result, we are hoping more people will come districts – Tracey Smith casts as part of his project work and Southend CDRP news and updates from the local police. forward with information to help us solve crimes 07739 687510 agreed to accommodate the podcasts on its website. The service is free and subscribers choose how and improve the quality of life for our citizens.”

If you are on The Law’s mailing list and your details have changed – or you no longer want to receive the paper – please email [email protected] or ring 0300 333 4444 ext 50634 To access The Law on the internet, log on to www.essex.police.uk/news/n_law_01.php – you can sign up here for a monthly email which alerts you when the latest issue has been published 4 The Law, March 2009 Staff associations Federation news by Roy Scanes Unison news by Mike Frost On-call claim – Home Secretary ‘hangs up’ families of officers killed while travel- Unison matters – and so do you! for the future. Four years after a claim for an on-call ling to and from home and work receive benefit IT may not feel like it but spring is on the way Speaking of which, f2p = p2f (failing to plan allowance was proposed by the Police payments equal to the officer’s pension contri- and, surprisingly, you may be better off finan- is planning to fail) and whilst our members Federation of England and Wales, we have butions. cially than you think! may have a more secure employment future reached a stalemate with the government. However, the Home Office has proposed For those with mortgages and other loans, than a lot of people in both the private and A failure to agree has been registered and changes to the system that would see officers low interest rates may be beneficial and, if you public sectors, there is no such thing as our claim will now be referred to the inde- travelling home and to work re-classified as are a net saver, although interest rates may certainty. pendent Police Arbitration Tribunal. being off duty – reducing the amount of bene- seem disastrous, things are not all bad. In these difficult times, no employer is Over the last two years, attention has fits their families receive if they are killed. Of course, those with ‘fixed’ mortgages may immune from the effects of the economic Since 2000, 93 officers have been killed in focused mainly on the fight for fair pay. or may not be so happy. situation and ‘jobs for life’ are a long-forgotten road traffic accidents, 50 of them travelling to However, when agreeing the three-year pay The question is should you try to get out of dream. or from work. Deaths while travelling to or settlement, the Home Secretary indicated that Spring is a great time of the year to look from work account for 38 per cent of all officer your deal and fix again at a lower rate? she and the government would look more The answer is to be very careful indeed. ahead at what you would like to be doing in, deaths since 2000 and 54 per cent of road acci- say, five years’ time and plotting a course to favourably on the Federation’s claim for an on- dent deaths – making the drive to and from Look at your ‘small print’ with care and take call allowance, particularly as some forces good independent advice from someone you get yourself there. work the most common way in which UK As the world comes out of recession, there already recognise and compensate a require- police officers are killed. trust before you do anything. ment for on-call by way of a Special Priority or Paying a financial penalty to break a deal will be tremendous opportunities for anyone The Federation believes this is purely a fiscal with the skills and abilities to take advantage Bonus payment and this money could be re- way of looking at the problem and will look at may not make sense. distributed to fund a specific on-call allowance. And always remember that if a new deal of them. our shift survey results before responding. In the shorter term, however, doing whatever Regrettably, a series of working groups Reducing Bureaucracy in Policing – interim report sounds too good to be true, then it very proba- where on-call was discussed failed to move the bly is. you can to make yourself even more valuable Jan Berry, the former chair of the Police matter forward, with the government failing to For those lucky enough to have a little more to your employer can only be sensible. Federation of England and Wales, released her acknowledge that it should be a nationally- money left at the end of the month, there is an If you have any concerns about your present agreed payment reflecting any occasion where interim report Reducing Bureaucracy in job or your working conditions, local Unison Policing on February 16. argument that now is a very good time to save there is a requirement to be on call. stewards are always close at hand with The national Federation has congratulated for the future. Savings interest rates may Following a meeting on February 10, the seem low but the truth is that, relative to practical advice and support for our members, her for such a reassuringly thorough report wherever you are. Federation has registered a failure to agree and praised the work done thus far. inflation rates, things are not that bad. and now awaits the matter being referred to In the middle of last year, you could have got Speaking of stewards and officers, the Mrs Berry was well-placed to tackle the Unison AGM was a lively evening with plenty independent arbiters. ongoing problem of bureaucracy and we only an interest rate of about 6.5 per cent before In order to provide the necessary front-line tax on your savings but the effects of inflation of interesting and frank discussion about a hope her report is more successful in cutting number of workplace issues. resilience, police forces and officers must be red tape than the many previous reports, at five per cent reduced real savings interest flexible but this voluntary flexibility by dramatically and, in real terms over a year, Regional officers gave the bigger picture which have seemingly fallen by the wayside. whilst branch secretary Barry Faber present- officers must be recognised. We’re not asking The report contains six recommendations each £1,000 you saved only made you about £2 ed a pragmatic and positive review of the year. for any new money to fund the on-call and goes beyond just removing pieces of paper. profit. Yes, really! allowance; there are sufficient funds within The paper is often the result and not the cause As inflation comes down, your £1,000 buys Again, membership has increased and even the Special Priority Payments to cover this. of the problem. We need to look at some of the you comparatively more so, although savings more colleagues were helped through a variety This is about recognising the commitment that practices and procedures which create this interest rates may seem low, in real terms less of trials and tribulations, from the stress of officers make to the public and the ‘sacrifices’ often unnecessary mountain of paperwork and can mean more. criminal allegations to the provision of timely made by being on-call during off-duty time. question the reasoning and need for it all. So don’t stick it under the mattress in personal welfare support. Police officers understand that 24/7 policing Bureaucracy has long been the blight of bob- despair, take advantage of low inflation and We were proud, once more, to be referred to will have an impact upon their personal lives bies on the beat, acting as a frustrating barri- save what you can now, especially if you as the “blue ribbon” branch that sets the but it is only right that anything that goes cade between the expectation and delivery of haven’t used your tax free ISA allowance for example in the region. beyond what is considered ‘reasonable’ that front-line policing. this year yet. So, thanks to everyone from your executive for impacts on their family life should be finan- This report is a starting point from which we Unison members have access to trustworthy all your hard work and support. Now it’s cially recompensed. must make inroads to achieving success for independent advice and savings schemes that upwards and onwards and again – spread the Government challenges injury compensation our both members and the public. are hard to beat. word amongst your colleagues because the The Government is proposing a change to the The full report is due in the spring and Mrs Now is a very good time use your member- more members we have, the more we can do to injury compensation system. Currently, the Berry says it will be more ‘challenging’. ship benefits to review your finances and plan help! Blues Essex Black Police Association And Twos news by Jennifer Doré L I M I T E D THE Essex Black Police Association (EBPA) Essex Police to be better. has grown in size and in the way it operates The EBPA’s executive board is committed to and delivers for Essex Police. making our organisation stronger and to work- PROTECTING THE PROTECTORS Our key aims are to promote a quality of ing with our senior officers, our members and opportunity for visibly minority ethnic staff various community partners to ensure that we within the organisation, as well as ensuring are guided by a forward-looking perspective better links are made within the local com - enriched by the lessons of our past. POLICE EMERGENCY AND SECURITY INDUSTRY SUPPLIES munities in order to continue to build trust We live in a world that values evolution and and confidence. improvement but, unfortunately, our network BAGS In October 2008, the EBPA elected a new still faces many of the same challenges now executive committee: chair DCI Pauline that we have faced throughout our history. Bowers; deputy chair Nishan Wijeratne; secre- The nuances may shift but the core TORCHES AND ACCESSORIES tary Christian Robinson; and co-ordinator objectives remain unchanged: improving Jennifer Doré. recruitment, retention and progression of We know the EBPA will ultimately be black and minority ethnic (BME) personnel, BATON HOLDERS assessed by how we help lead our staff and promoting cultural diversity, fostering good police officers to a higher standard. relationships between minority ethnic Our efforts have made tangible improve- organisation and Essex Police, being a support BELTS ments in the lives of many internal and mechanism and developing policies through external parties. consultation on race and cultural issues. We are an organisation built on change. We As long as these issues exist, the EBPA will BELT ACCESSORIES have long fought for progressive organis- exist as an assertive and progressive force to ational change but we also believe in social improve positive change. BOOTS change that enhances our effectiveness.  Anyone interested in becoming a member We have always demonstrated a willingness of EBPA or who requires further information, to look within and challenge ourselves as can contact the EBPA office at HQ via email CUFF HOLDERS members to be better so that we can encourage or on ext 50666 CUFF KEYS Delegates find a different culture MORE than 50 police officers and staff ask frank questions about the attitudes and AND MUCH MORE attended an Islamic Awareness workshop in beliefs of other cultures and I learned a lot – Colchester. until then I had no idea how little I knew Organised by Essex University’s Islamic about Islam,” she said. Society, the workshop aimed to inform Essex Police College diversity and commu- delegates about Islam as a religion and nity engagement officer Heather Gill said: about aspects of its culture. “It was fantastic to receive a vast amount of Speaker Shahid Akmal, a member of the positive responses from Essex Police UK Interfaith Network, explained the main employees wanting to develop their under- teachings of Islam and debunked a few standing of Islam. I am very grateful to Dr myths. Mateen Durrani, of the Islamic Society at He also addressed topical issues through a the University of Essex for extending the question and answer session to help develop invitation to Essex Police.” a better understanding of Muslims living in  There is the prospect to organise another .bluesandtwosltd.co.uk today’s multi-faith and multi-cultural society. workshop, this time at Essex Police College. Internal communications officer Heather If you would be interested in attending, on 07746 331456 wwwMAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED Turner felt the workshop had been extremely a date yet to be decided, contact Heather useful. “It is not often one gets the chance to Gill via email or on ext 56173 News The Law, March 2009 5 Corner the Experience the benefit of new e-PDR Band raises THE new electronic performance devel- signed off in the paper format. Benefits of e-PDR include better opment review (e-PDR) system goes Then the objectives for the new year, access and administration, easier on- £1,550 from chairman forcewide on April 6. 2009/10, will be entered on the elect - going recording of evidence and the It has been piloted successfully on ronic system – from that point onward reduced time it takes to sign off at the its concerts South Eastern Division and in HQ only the electronic system will be used. end of the PDR year. Corporate Development ahead of the Assistant Chief Constable Sue  Guidance on how to use the e-PDR ESSEX Police Band helped implementation date. Harrison, who is responsible for application can be found via the to raise a substantial e-PDR is the latest element of a Operational Support, said she fully ORIGIN HR tab on Portal, the intranet amount of charity cash from nationally-developed software system supported the new e-PDR system. home page, then click on e-PDR two Christmas concerts. supported by the National Policing “An effective PDR system is a vital guidance. A number of 60-second The Parachute Regiment Improvement Agency and will integrate part of managing and developing our guidance clips provide step-by-step received £1,000 from the with the existing Origin HR systems in employees,” she said. instructions and are supplemented by Christmas Cracker concert Essex: Police Personnel (PP); Training “The new e-PDR is both more effective short crib-sheets listing key actions at Charter Hall in Administration (TAS); and Health and and less bureaucratic than the old required. Colchester. Safety. paper system. Or visit the HR Department intranet And the band sent £550 On all divisions and departments not “It is important that officers, police staff site and click on e-PDR Is Coming, from the door collection at its involved in the pilot, the move to e-PDR and their supervisors make full use of the under News and Features. own annual Christmas con- will be in two stages. new system and achieve the significant  For more information, contact your cert to the Prostate Cancer  Essex Police Authority Current PDRs – for 2008/09 – will be benefits this system can provide.” own HR team Charity, in memory of former chairman DCC Peter Simpson, who died from the cancer last Robert Chambers September, aged 69. Mr Simpson was a founder member and past president Are you Significant results in of the Essex Police Choir and was its chairman when he died. He was also instrumen- tal in setting up the force’s special museum and was chairman of the trustees, as well as being president of Essex difficult court cases Police Musical Society and a enough? THE force achieved some significant past-president of the Essex Police Band I WAS delighted to see results at court last month. The annual Christmas that eight members of A multiple rapist was jailed for 16 years, a mother Cracker concert is hosted by Essex police staff and two “ was jailed for four years for the manslaughter of her police in Colchester and members of the local com- baby son and a teenager was found guilty of murder- Neighbourhood Watch. In munity have now completed ing his father. the new three-week special December, 750 attended to Samir Daya, 23, of Thorpe Bay, was jailed after being constable training course. hear music played by the found guilty at Basildon Crown Court for four rapes on two I am very proud that our Essex Police Band and the women in Thorpe Bay and Southend in June and July 2007. police staff are volunteering Military Band of the Daya was called “arrogant, selfish and dangerous” by to make such a difference. Parachute Regiment. In fact, anyone volunteer- Judge Overbury and will have to serve a minimum sen- And the band’s own annual ing their time to be a special tence of just under seven years. Christmas concert was held constable is already special Ds Ian Collins, of Southend CID, said afterwards it had at the Marconi Club in in my eyes. been a long, drawn-out but thorough investigation which Beehive Lane, Chelmsford. It is such a brilliant oppor- culminated in a violent man being brought to justice. tunity to be part of the Essex He added: “This case has been extremely difficult for the Police family and really does two victims but hopefully they now have some closure and College trainer make a difference to the can start to re-build their lives.” communities of Essex. Meanwhile, Tilbury mother Joanne Mallinder was sen- is champion Operating with full police tenced at St Alban’s Crown Court after being found guilty powers, the Essex Police of the manslaughter of her 15-month-old son Jack. Special Constabulary is He died on March 20, 2007 following a year in hospital at first aid where he was taken after receiving injuries at home. made up of wonderful men ESSEX Police College first and women from different Detectives from the Child Abuse Investigation Unit at Brentwood undertook a comprehensive investigation and aid trainer Sgt Sam Smith walks of life who work with has won a national police regular officers and mem- last month Mallinder was sentenced to four years in jail  Dc Nicky Whiting and DI Lucy Robinson on the first aid competition. bers of police staff to contin- plus two years on an extended licence. ue making Essex an even Major Investigation Section stand Ds Lorna Henderson said afterwards Jack had been Sgt Smith won the compet - safer place in which to live admitted to hospital aged three months, having suffered ition for team reserves, and work and to visit. injuries including subdural and retinal haemorrhages and ahead of 14 others. By introducing this new, numerous fractures, which were not accidental. She was reserve for the condensed training course, ‘Life of crime’ awaits “His mother has never given a reasonable explanation as Essex team, comprising Pc the force has ensured that to how he came to have these injuries”. Tracey Bishop, of Chigwell its own police staff can And Edward Belben, of Colchester, was found guilty at Road Policing Unit, and easily apply to join Essex Chelmsford Crown Court, of murdering his father Gary, Natalie Watkins, also an Police Special Constabulary those who join up when he was just 15, and of attempting to murder his EPC trainer, who came ninth and carry out their training mother. He will be sentenced later in the spring. in the team event. Outside court, DCI David Peplow said: “The attack on without having to worry EMPLOYEES are being encouraged to find out about the Sgt Smith has been first about having time off from Gary Belben was motiveless and sustained leaving him aid training for seven years opportunities to join Crime Division. with more than 30 injuries, predominantly to his head.” their day job. An open day was held at HQ last month to give officers and took her advanced I really hope that employ- and police staff information about a career in the division. medics course when she was ees interested in applying The day allowed people to gain insights into some of the on the firearms team, teach- to be a special constable will division’s specialist units – including the newly-established Have a pint with the IPA ing firearms officers about grasp this opportunity. Police Online Investigation Team (POLIT), child abuse immediate trauma and sup- Our special constables OFFICERS are invited to join the Essex region of the investigation units (CAIUs) and Special Branch. International Police Association (IPA). port. She has been teaching already serving are doing People who attended were given information about the first aid for two years. an absolutely sterling job Find out more about the IPA – which fosters friendship different departments and encouraged to apply for a and liaison between serving and retired officers in the UK During the Police National and are highly-regarded – number of vacant positions. First Aid Competition, held but we could always do with and 59 other countries – by attending one of the upcoming Deirdre Nowell, of Crime Division, said: “The day was a annual meetings: North East Essex Branch – Thursday, in Cheshire, Sgt Smith had more! success and a number of people came along wanting to find to take an exam and deal So please, take time to visit March 12, Colchester police station bar, 7.30pm; 10 Region out more about moving into a career within Crime Division. – Wednesday, March 25, at the HQ Sports, Pavilion, 8pm. with casualty scenarios, the Essex Police website at “However, we would still love to hear from anyone who assessed under the St John www.essex.police.uk and click Among items for discussion will be a proposal to extend was not able to attend and who wants more information.” first aid manual. on Recruitment and then on membership to police staff.  Contact Deirdre Nowell, head of MICAS, on ext 52270 Special Constabulary to find  Contact regional vice-chairman Peter Culligan on She had to deal with a out about ordinary people 01268 780274 or 07802 213034 for details casualty who had not only doing extraordinary work. fallen and injured their shoulder but who was then Or you are welcome to that we can save in excess of noted computer screens and attend one of our periodic Looking after Essex Police found to be diabetic. and the environment half the energy used. lights left on in areas where open evenings, ring the Sadly, the cost of installing officers and police staff had special recruitment hotline WE use a considerable these controls is currently left for the day, several hours Seeking former or chat with a colleague who amount of electricity in our not as cost-effective as we earlier. is a special constable – some offices to enable us to would like. I would therefore request of them are named on the Pc Ian Birch perform our operational The trials have also shown once again that everyone Special Constabulary DC Linda Kemp, of Crime duties. that some of us are not very makes the effort to turn off intranet site, listed under Ian Mott, of Property However, there are many Division, is trying to contact Divisions & Departments. good at ‘housekeeping’ and lights, photocopiers, computer former constable Ian Birch. Services, asks us all areas where we could save tend to leave equipment, monitors etc when they are Click on Police Staff Support and reduce our costs and Mr Birch was stationed at the Special Constabulary. to remember to lights etc on when they are not required. Harwich Police Station and environmental impact. not required. Every little helps, as they And if you do decide to switch off lights, Property Services has carried left the force in August 2006. apply, I look forward to This was confirmed recently say, and if we are going to  If you are Mr Birch or if computer monitors out a number of trials on when I paid a late-evening save money we need all the seeing you out on patrol in lighting controls and shown you have contact details for the future! and photocopiers call to one police station and help we can get. him, please contact Dc Kemp ” on 0300 333 4444 ext 35215 6 The Law, March 2009 News News The Law, March 2009 7 Damion flies high after turning his life around by Jenna Smith A REFORMED schoolboy was awarded top prize at the Essex Police Young People of the Year awards. The £1,000 Young Person of the Year (YOPEY) award was won by 16-year-old air cadet Damion Chadwick, of Canvey Island, who has turned his life around after being excluded  from a previous school for bad behaviour and is now a role Sgt Russ Woolford, Capt Steve Isacke and Pc Mark Shelley ready to fly QH99, left model for his peers.  Rear observer Sgt Russ Woolford, above, navigates the helicopter as it flies over Damion said he was ‘so surprised’ to have won. Clacton Announcing him as the winner at the awards ceremony on March 1, ACC Peter Lowton said: “Damion sets a fine example to other young people by demonstrating that it really is possible to recover from a bad beginning and lead a better life. “There is far too much negative feeling towards young people today and looking around at what these young people here have achieved really does make myself and Essex Police by private ambulance service Abacus, to name but a few. proud to be sponsoring such inspirational awards.” Essex Police Authority chairman Cllr Robert Chambers The ceremony – sponsored by Essex Police, Essex Police said: “Having young, talented people such as Alex and Teamwork gets results Authority and Jefferies Solicitors – at the Raddison SAS Moses living in Essex makes me extremely proud to be hotel, Stansted Airport, was attended by nearly 300 people, living in this county. many of them with inspirational tales to tell. “I only wish that when I was younger I had been inspired more unusual radio messages between air traffic THE Essex Police helicopter – callsign QH99 – Damion was nominated for the award by Zahna Hull, to do the same for my community as they do.” controllers and Ryanair and Easyjet pilots. Steve is flying longer and later shifts following the manager of Years 10 and 11 at Furtherwick Park School, The runners up in each category each received £250. was on an air traffic frequency to arrange our transit Canvey Island, for the way he has improved and changed. Colchester 20-year-old Daniel Day is at the forefront of a launch of a sharing agreement with Kent Police. through a zone used by aircraft taking off from He was facing permanent exclusion from another school community project, the SOS bus, to which he will be  Top, Damion Chadwick, far right, with the other The dark blue and yellow Eurocopter EC 135’s Stansted Airport. just two years ago but was given a chance by Furtherwick donating £125. Above Audley End Park, the TI camera shows YOPEY winners, from left, Moses Burrell, Alex Penn, flying hours have increased by more than 30 Park. Daniel’s award was announced by Sarah Mitchell, numerous heat sources. Mark zooms in on some of Daniel Day, Kerys Bessell and, inset, with cheques for Damion embraced it and really began to change his life – managing partner of Westcliff on Sea law firm Jefferies per cent and its speed and manoeuvrability, the images to reveal deer, foxes and badgers. The he made new friends and has been voted in as a prefect by Solicitors. She said: “It is amazing to think just how much himself and Canvey Island Air Cadets gadgets – including a thermal image camera  park search proves negative but the woman was Chief staff and fellow students. time he devotes to helping with the bus and at his local Pictures by Terry Turner later found safe in a nearby town. and searchlight – and highly-trained crews have pilot Capt Damion believes that being a member of the Air Training youth club – despite needs of his own.” 2.25am: We land back at base. The rest of the shift is brought excellent results in pursuits, searches Corps (ATC) contributed greatly to his turnaround in And 23-year-old dedicated St John Ambulance volunteer learning difficulties; foster children Philip Gordon and Steve quiet and there is time to complete reports about the attitude and overall behaviour. He said: “Being in the ATC Kerys Bessell, of Basildon, was announced as the other Kerry Thacker, both 17, of Dunmow, who are throwing off and intelligence-gathering operations on both Isacke night’s activities. has taught me a lot about discipline, particularly self- runner-up by the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Lord Petre of the stereotype of failure; Kyle Balcombe, 18, of Maldon, sides of the Thames. Between April 1, 2008 and February 28 this year, keeps up to discipline and leadership skills.” Ingatestone. young carer who finds time to fundraise for others; Angie QH99 flew for 1,187 hours, attending 2,560 Press officer Bill Stock reports on a typical night date with He also praised Furtherwick Park for giving him that Kerys, who also works as a technician for Thames Diggens, 21, of Wivenhoe, for spreading passion for incidents. The flights led to 300 arrests, 60 stolen chance to prove himself and really change. “The fact that Ambulance service, will be donating half her win to the St entertainment by putting on shows; Erin Burrows, 16, a shift at the Air Support Unit (ASU). paperwork vehicles being traced and 31 missing people found. the new school was so willing to give me a second chance John Ambulance cadet group in Corringham and Stanford former Southend Youth Mayor, for leading her generation The flights also included nearly 400 evidence- was great,” he said. Le Hope, which she runs. to a better reputation; Joanne O’Driscoll, 18, a leading THE first thing that is obvious when gathering sorties where photographs were taken to Damion will be giving half his £1,000 prize to the Canvey light in her Colchester church’s youth activities; and prepare for raids and court cases, at the scenes of Lord Petre said: “Kerys is to be applauded for running a flying in QH99 is that so much is Island ATC, where he is a corporal. Being an air cadet has Daniel Vinson, 17, a Saffron Walden school-leaver who Pictures by road crashes and at major incidents, such as the youth organisation that teaches young people vital first-aid going on in such a small space. also given Damion a career goal as he now hopes to join the goes back to help look after farm animals. Bill Stock serious flooding across the county early last month. skills while also having a demanding full-time job in the ‘Flying Eye’, ‘Spy in the Sky’ ... call it what RAF Police. YOPEY founder Tony Gearing, a former national “We have never been so busy,” said Russ, who is health industry. you will. But in reality the 3m x 1.5m cockpit The £500 junior winners were 13-year-olds Moses Burrell newspaper journalist who became fed-up with the bad press the ASU’s second in command. “We need more adults like Kerys to give up some of their and Alex Penn, who will be donating £250 to Little Havens young people receive, said: “Seeing all of these wonderful of QH99 is like a ‘flying FIR’ – a mini-Force “We used to average three to four hours of flying a time to help run youth organisations. There are not enough children’s hospice and were nominated for their countless young people here today really does show that the bad press Information Room which can quickly reach the day but now it can be seven to nine hours, because such people in Essex.” volunteering work. youngsters receive is most definitely not justified.” scene of incidents in Essex, Kent and we are working longer day and night shifts and also All other finalists were also presented with surprise £50 Alex and Moses, both of Southend, are best friends who Mr Gearing has held 29 YOPEY contests across Britain neighbouring forces. covering Kent. cheques for good causes: spend their spare time helping others and raising funds for but he singled out Essex Police as the first force to recognise The helicopter can nip from one job to another at “There are Civil Aviation Authority and oper - Anah and Sana Rangoonwala, aged 14 and 11 respectively, many good causes. “it too has a role to play in correcting the unfair bad press up to 160mph, use GPS (global positioning system) ational limits on the hours and weather conditions of Chafford Hundred, who are carers to disabled Their projects have included organising a talent show and that young people receive”. navigation to find a target location within seconds, The call is to help a search for a high-risk missing Russ tells the FIR controller. Steve holds the aircraft we can fly in. Safety is paramount – f you have a grandparents; Nathalie Boakye and Shingi setting up a gardening project to help the elderly and those He said: “Everyone in society will benefit when we all monitor activity on the ground with day- or night- person thought to be in a car near the River Crouch. in a hover as Mark sweeps the area with the TI crash in a police car you will probably walk away Chabva-Shoperai, both 16, of Harlow, for breaking down with no spare time to maintain their gardens. recognise that we have more to gain than fear from the vast vision zoom cameras and turn night into day with a QH99 is airborne in minutes but the call is cancelled camera. He finds a heat source from the switched-off from it but if you crash in the helicopter you race barriers by holding a food event; Sam Colwill, 16, a They also volunteer every Tuesday to clean vehicles used majority of young people.” searchlight appropriately called a NightSun. It can en route and it returns to base 15 minutes later. engine and local units are directed to the scene. A probably won’t.” Chelmsford Sea Cadet who supports another cadet with also relay live pictures back to FIR at Essex Police 8pm: A call to a burglary in Colchester. One suspect man is arrested on suspicion of possession of an Mark has flown with the Essex ASU for 18 years, HQ. is arrested and another is thought to be hiding in offensive weapon. making him the longest-serving police air observer The radio system is linked to FIR, local units, other dense undergrowth. The helicopter hovers at about 10pm: We are running low on fuel and land at in the country. forces and emergency services and also to air traffic 1,500ft as Mark scans the TI camera over a wide Wattisham Airfield. Suffolk ASU staff ‘refuel’ the He said: “It is a fantastic job and nothing gives us Cycling PCSOs believe two wheels are best control frequencies and its public address system area. There is no trace of the man. crew of QH99 with tea while the aircraft is topped greater pleasure than when we find missing people can be used for crowd control. 8.30pm: We turn for base but there is an urgent call up with aviation fuel. or villains on the run. We are delivering front-line TWO Essex PCSOs who clock up 20 to 30 miles a day on Phil said: “We are able to cover a wide area which Add in the flight controls plus instrument panels from Kent Police and QH99 is tasked to Rochester to 10.25pm: Back to Clacton for the pre-planned policing and work in total harmony with our ground- cycle patrols have described the use of bikes as covers a town with housing estates, industrial areas, the in front of and above the pilot and you can see help search for another missing person, who has intelligence-gathering tasks. based colleagues.” “absolutely invaluable” for Neighbourhood Policing. Thames river bank, fields and marshes. there’s a vast array of electronics and avionics threatened to jump into the River Medway. 10.55pm: We land back at Boreham Airfield and the Steve is an ex-Navy pilot who flew in the Debbie Lister and Phil Long – pictured, right – have “During our patrols we have found numerous stolen crammed into the cockpit. Russ plots the flightpath direct from Colchester. crew catches up with paperwork. It is surprisingly Falklands War and instructed Prince Andrew. He worked together for two and a half years on patrols cars, including some stolen from the docks and The crew for tonight is chief pilot Capt Steve Over Kent, he changes the screen display to a map of quiet until 1.15am where they receive a call to a has flown more than 7,000 hours on helicopters and around Tilbury and have a formidable record for finding abandoned, gathered good intelligence which has aided Isacke, Pc Mark Shelley, the front-seat observer who Rochester docks and then takes a thermal-image stolen car making off from Epping. We find the car in says flying QH99 is similar to his duties on Sea King wanted people and for gathering intelligence. various investigations and we have got to know many operates the TI (thermal-imaging) camera and also close-up of a pier where the man was thought to be. Woodford Green. The vehicle stops nearby and four Air Sea Rescue operations. Tilbury has a network of alleyways behind the houses people who live in the town. helps Steve with flight and safety checks, and Sgt We search a large area but are called off when the occupants are arrested. He said: “It’s about precise flying, making judge- which can be difficult to patrol, especially at night. But “Residents have got to know us and they expect to see Russ Woolford, who, as rear observer, is in charge of man is found safe. 1.40am: Minutes later, FIR asks us to help search for ments on the spot and teamwork. Most of our pilots Debbie and Phil know every inch of them and whenever us on bikes. There is no doubt that bikes help us keep in the navigation and communications systems. Heading back to Essex, we fly towards Clacton where a woman thought to be wandering the extensive are ex-military and fit that role easily. people run from police, the cycling PCSOs can carry out touch with people more often. 7pm: The phone rings in the ASU flight office, some intelligence-gathering tasks need to be carried grounds of Audley End House, near Saffron Walden “The pilot’s job is to get the scene of an incident as quick searches and often find the suspects. “Bikes are also good for us because we certainly keep situated in a former control tower used by wartime out. But a call comes over the radio about a suspicious – there are concerns for her welfare. quickly as possible and put the aircraft where the Debbie said: “We have helped to locate numerous fit cycling up to 30 miles a day and they are also good for bomber squadrons at Boreham Airfield, just outside vehicle on a former quarry south of Colchester. We listen to a commentary from police vehicles on observers want it. We achieve it through excellent wanted people, sometimes two or three a week, because the environment.” Chelmsford. 9.35pm: “As if by magic, we are almost overhead,” the ground as we fly northwards. But then there are teamwork.” we know the alleyways and can usually work out which Tilbury Power Station has recently sponsored and sup- way suspects are heading. If there is a chase we can get plied four new Dawes mountain bikes for Phil and POLICE in Clacton issued with head- man in Rosemary Road who was breaching when he comes to court.” A 37-year-old evidence has been gained. Just the sight of to the scene quickly, carry out an area search and radio Debbie and two other Tilbury PCSOs who will shortly be Success on cameras just a few weeks ago say the the town’s dispersal order. Clacton man was subsequently charged them can be enough to prevent many for officers to make arrests. taking their cycling test. equipment is already proving to be a great Pc Aguda said: “The man had been with failing to comply with a direction to situations from spiralling.” “Tilbury is quite a widespread town and it can take 25  Any police officer or PCSO wishing to take up cycle help. involved in an altercation at a bar, was leave an exclusion zone. He is due to face The seven cameras will initially be minutes to walk from one end to another but it’s only five patrols must be authorised to do so, by undertaking the first outing for Pc Andy Aguda said that the technology argumentative and refused to leave – all of Colchester Magistrates’ Court on March 12. trialled by Tendring neighbourhood policing minutes by bike. And we always have the option to get off basic training course. Contact your divisional training helps officers to make the town a safer which, of course, was recorded on Pc Rook’s Pc Aguda said the head-cams had also teams on Friday and Saturday nights to the bike and walk through the shopping area or officer for details. Clacton’s new place at night. headcam. proved a very strong deterrent to anti-social combat crime and anti-social behaviour. residential streets to engage with the public.”  To read the Essex Police Cycle Policy, click on the Just days after receiving the new equip- “This now means that we will have behaviour, early on. Officers in Colchester are also set to be fit- Debbie and Phil were among the first Essex officers to Policy Publications (Greens) link on the intranet front head-cams ment, Pc Hayley Rook was faced with a excellent evidence against this individual “Where offences occurred, valuable ted with the devices. take their National Cycle Proficiency Test and would page. The cycle policy is D200, published on recommend cycle patrols to any beat officers. February 10 8 The Law, March 2009 Letters of appreciation A selection of letters Chris Kench and Steve Cross. court and the boy responsible have gone up. We would like of Crime arrived to see if he window at the rear of the Their understanding of the has been dealt with accord- to thank you and your staff could find any fingerprints bungalow and climb inside, in sent to our divisions strong link between their ingly. We are happy with the for all your help: all the police and they were both extremely the course of which she day-to-day policing of a neigh- outcome. in Grays who have been kind and sympathetic. injured herself on the and departments, bourhood with the vision your Our son and the boy respon- involved in the anti-social In the early evening, Pc smashed glass. thanking us for a job Chief Constable shared with sible have met through Victim behaviour reports, and also to Dave Bridge arrived with a She found the woman suf- me in the morning, combined Support, which has helped Pc Kelly Turnage and Pc photograph on his phone of fering from hypothermia. The well done. with their enthusiasm and him to get closure. Kingsley Edore who have some recovered stolen proper- woman was taken to hospital commitment on the ground, is I would like you to know Pc been a lot of help to us. ty but sadly it was not ours. in a very grave condition. We TO Chief Constable Roger Baker: evidence of your very capable Pownall gave our son and the Over the past few years of I was really impressed with are pleased to say that she In the past and of late I had leadership. family a lot of support: she dealing with the gating of Essex Police and the response has recovered from the lost all confidence in the force Thank you for allowing me was friendly and professional. Footpath 129, we have been in we received. We were treated hypothermia, however her contact with many police per- but I had a problem in July a few hours of being in the She also kept us informed with kindness and not made condition is quite frail. sonnel and all have been to feel like a statistic. Sadly, In an age where it is and Dc Fred Crawley, of company of those who serve and updated at all times. SA courteous and helpful. none of the stolen property increasingly fashionable for Pitsea, attended but, due to the people of Tilbury. MH was recovered but that is not police to be criticised, it is other circumstances, could The neighbourhood policing Grays team remains a special team Grays the fault of the police. reassuring to know of such not continue to handle the MH dedicated officers as Pc Howe. case and it was passed to Dc in my mind and I wish you all TO Chief Constable Roger Baker: the best for the future. We were unfortunate to suffer TO Chief Supt Dave Folkard: Corringham T&TS Andrew Rowe, of Billericay. Hockley These two officers have Chief information officer a burglary which is currently I would like to commend the under investigation. TO Pc Duncan McMaster: restored my faith in your National Policing Improvement quality of service being pro- We were initially seen by I am writing to express our TO PCSO Brian Edwards: force. Agency vided in the St Nicholas Pcs Gavin Timms and Alex thanks for the excellent rela- I would like to thank you for They were very kind and Secondary Specialist School Bossom and, although we tionship building up between your continued support of compassionate towards me on behalf of the force by Pc TO Pc Nadia El Hatimi: have not had a resolution to you and St Giles School. Trinity House. and I think and believe that When I first spoke to you Gary Collard. the incident, felt compelled to He supports our work and Your visits have proved very There are so many varied you should recognise that. about the problems with write. understands and empathises beneficial to the children’s and valuable contributions SA youths, you were very The care, courtesy and pro- with the students. He has understanding and apprecia- made in support of the project Basildon concerned and, with your fessionalism demonstrated by moved steadily from a point of tion of the work of the police which helps towards our work hard work and time, I feel all the officers handling the nasty ridicule by the misguid- force. with our residents. TO Insp Rachel Wood: that you have hopefully case, including Pc Timms and ed, to a point of being accept- In addition, it has helped My gratitude is extended to I want to thank you and your solved the problem. Pc Bossom, Pc Michael Budd ed and listened to and the children gain an aware- those who are able to attend colleagues for allowing me to My family and I can now and your scenes of crime offi- allowed to help. ness of how to keep safe and our quarterly support and work the ground with the relax in the evening, not cers, has been outstanding It has been good to see such behave in a responsible man- advice group meetings as I team in a unique and fasci- having to worry about what and went a long way to easing vital work. He has also been ner, which is an important am only too aware how limit- nating area. was going to happen next. the trauma. most helpful with many very part of their Citizenship edu- ed time is. I look forward to Once again I was hugely For all you have done, I Throughout, your whole challenging situations. cation. continuing working with you impressed with the profes- would like to express my team based in Southend and Thank you also for all the I know that the children in the future. sionalism, commitment and sincere gratitude and apprec - Leigh has been supportive efforts of you and your team feel they can ask questions Nacro Housing deep understanding of local iation. Keep up the good and excellent; true examples on behalf of us all to keep us and respond in a positive way Halstead policing provided by all those work. of what the public expects all safe. to your talks. I met. SB from the police. St Nicholas Secondary Specialist I do hope that this close RECENTLY, an animal Pc Nick May was generous Benfleet B & A B School relationship can continue in cruelty conviction was with his time and patience in Southend Southend the future as we very much achieved through the hard the way he answered all my TO Chief Insp Alan Cotgrove: value your visits to our word and perseverance by Pc questions and left me with an My son had his mobile phone TO Chief Constable Roger Baker: TO PCSOs Lesley Bentley school. Sarah Latchford, from impression of a committed stolen by a boy during enrol- I wrote to you previously and John Thorne: St Giles Primary School Harwich police station. and very capable officer. ment at his new school. regarding anti-social behav- Thanks for all your support Great Maplestead We at Swan Rescue would It was good to see you and My husband and I phoned the iour on Footpath 129 and the over the last year, and also for like to thank her for all her your team of PCSOs Debbie police and my son gave a state- need for a Gating Order. your help at our Christmas I WAS involved in a road hard work and dedication. Lister, Warren Venables and ment to Pc Karen Pownall. After a year we now have the lunch at Green Court. We are collision, suffered what I realise that cruelty to a Phil Long, along with Pcs The case has since gone to Gating Order and the gates always happy to see you. doctors believe was an epilep- swan may not seem like a big Green Court Tenants’ Association tic fit and lost consciousness crime in the scheme of things, Earls Colne while driving. but I can assure you this has Luckily no other car was affected a great many people I HAVE recently been advised involved but my vehicle did within our community, and of the closure of investiga- collide with some roadside made the front page in our tions into a crime I reported equipment on the A127, local newspaper. following the successful which resulted in consider- If it hadn’t been for your THE CREDIT officer’s sterling work, none of apprehension of the person able damage to the vehicle responsible. and injuries to me. this would have been I should like to convey my When I regained conscious- achieved and I can assure you appreciation to Essex Police ness, I was being looked after a great many of our com - for the prompt resolution of by Pc Mark Yorke-Wade and munity are extremely happy this matter and especially Pc Pc John Swann. to have such a committed Andrew Unsworth, who han- Can I take this opportunity officer working to keep our UN-CRUNCH! town safe. dled this case. to thank the officers who I I should also like to thank thought acted superbly in We felt therefore that it was everyone concerned for the what was for me a very dis- only right that you be Police CU is offering a discount of 1% for new progress updates provided tressing situation. informed of this officer’s Police CU has Resourcer unsecured, fixed term loans, reducing during the investigation. Their actions were exempla- work, which to our mind was above and beyond the call of itstypicalAPRfrom9%p.a.to8%p.a.forthelife I was very much impressed ry and they are a credit to the launched three 1 with both the outcome of police force in general and, duty. of the loan and making it easier for borrowers to Harwich Environmental Action limited period enquiries and the efficiency more particularly, to police in make regular monthly payments. displayed by Essex Police in Rayleigh. Team (HEAT) and offers for loan resolving this incident in the Please pass on my utmost Swan Rescue Harwich ANY member can apply for a loan of up to shortest time. thanks to officers. I cannot applications £20,000. So no matter how small your savings, MS praise them highly enough. TO Pc Duncan McMaster: up to 30 June you can apply for as much as you can afford Basildon SR We want to thank you for all to repay. Benfleet the tremendous support and 2009. Ring us TO Chief Constable Roger Baker: community contact you have And for members with good credit ratings and In November my car was TO Chief Constable Roger Baker: given our village and for or call into stolen from Vange Cemetery We wish to express our thanks attending parish council employment records, Police CU will even consider your local and my husband phoned 999 for the excellent work by Pc meetings. increasing the available term for new loans over and a very sympathetic Stacey Howe when her prompt Your skill with the young PCU branch. £10,000 to 7 years to make monthly repayments person took details of the car. actions contributed to saving has really helped to restore smaller (while increasing the total amount payable). The next morning my son the life of an elderly woman in stability in our village and and my husband decided to Highwoods, Colchester. your softly, softly approach, make a systematic tour of the Despite many phone calls to we are convinced, has proved Loans subject to status, conditions and credit back streets of Vange and the woman, we were unable that the ‘old copper’ style – checks to persons aged 18 or over. The Police Your force PCU representative: Ian Curley Credit Union is authorised and regulated by the found the stolen car, which to establish contact and had being about and talking to Financial Services Authority. 0845 telephone my husband drove home. to ask Colchester Helpline to everyone – has borne more numbers are charged at local rate for landlines but Tel: 0845 241 7509 Later that day, Pc Lucy assist. fruit than any heavy-handed- may attract a premium from mobile phone providers. Smart took a statement and a They sent one of their patrol ness could ever have achieved. Email: [email protected] list of the property which had staff to the property, who was Everyone in the village REGIONAL BRANCH OFFICE, or visit: www.policecu.co.uk been stolen from the car. unable to gain access, result- knows you know and respects ESSEX POLICE FEDERATION OFFICE, While she was there, Dc ing in your officers attending. you, which is a great bonus. POLICE HEADQUARTERS, STABLE LODGE, Jeremy Spencer, from Scenes Pc Howe had to smash a Castle Hedingham Parish Council PO BOX 2, CHELMSFORD, ESSEX CM2 6DA FIVE ACTION awards were made by the high standards; Overcoming hurdles; Never Bonus and Honoraria Panel accepting second-best. last month. The recipients of £100 awards The work of officers and staff were: Pc Vania Askew, of HR; put forward for the awards Pc Scott Threadgold, of South Police Credit Union demonstrated at least one of Western; Raymond Hyde, of Because there’s strength in unity ACTION’s six strands: Transport Services; Rosemary Achieve ment focus; Customer first; Taking Dabbs, of Mobile Support; and Alexa Fox, of Honorary President: Lord Stevens of Kirkwhelpington, QPM, DL responsibility for performance; Inspiring Corporate Development. Letters The Law, March 2009 9 HAVE YOUR SAY: Write to Heather Turner, Law Letters, Internal Communications, Police HQ, PO Box 2, Springfield, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 6DA or email [email protected] Letters and emails must be no longer than 300 words and must include your full name and home town. The deadline is the 20th of each month. We reserve the right to edit or omit letters. Please be aware The Law is reproduced on the internet and circulated to the media. Experience is Tony, thanks for your support when I retired Call to former I WAS medically retired from Essex Despite the considerable demands on his opport unity to wish all of the many invaluable to Police just before Christmas after 14 time in his role, Tony was always available former colleagues, friends and acquain- colleagues years of service and I would like to to offer help and advice to me during what tances within Essex Police with whom I I AM trying to re-establish publicly thank Tony Rayner, of Essex has been an extremely difficult and stress- have had the pleasure of working during contact with some old stroke club Police Federation, for the assistance and ful period of my life and I am extremely my service all the best for the future. colleagues with whom I support he gave me during this time, on grateful to him for this. Richard James worked during my 19-year both a professional and personal level. I would also like to take this Colchester career with Essex Police and members with whom I have sadly lost I AM a retired Essex officer contact. and also worked as a mem- I would like to try and ber of police staff until 2000. locate the following retired I am now the volunteer officers to catch up on old Wonderful tributes to Steve times: treasurer and transport officer for Southend on Sea Dc Royston Rush, Harlow; Stroke Club. Dc Mark Heard, Force The club meets twice- Intelligence Bureau (FIB); monthly to provide social Dc Jim Panting, Technical made us all feel so proud Support Unit; Dc Ernie Carr, activities for people who FIB; and Dc David Webb, have suffered the debilitat- received from Sgt Vince Brown and the I WOULD like to extend my our proudest, albeit saddest, days. Southend. ing effects of a stroke and heartfelt thanks to all of my My family and I were amazed and force has been such a comfort and will who live within the bound- I would love to hear from husband Steve’s colleagues uplifted by the numbers of officers who never be forgotten. them and they can contact aries of the Borough of attended to remember Steve. We thank I am writing personally to thank Chief Southend-on-Sea. for the wonderful tribute me by e mail at you all. Supt Keith Garnish for his wonderful Meetings are held at St [email protected] they all paid him at his funer- The tributes paid to him by the force tribute and to express my Jonathan White Mary’s Church Hall in al on February 17. Prittlewell, on two Monday were truly wonderful and I cannot thank admiration for the officers on South Norfolk, Virginia, USA evenings each month from We have always been proud enough all those involved. Knowing how Eastern Division, who are an outstand- 8pm to 10pm, when a vari- of Steve and of his commitment much he was respected and loved is help- ing body of men and women and of whom ety of activities are to the force and his colleagues and ing us to deal with the devastation and the force should be very proud. Grateful thanks arranged. our celebration of Steve’s life will heartbreak his loss has caused. Thank you again. I WOULD like to thank all Transport for members is always be remembered as one of The support and help our family has Viv Leese police colleagues and their provided by way of tail-lift wives for the wonderful sup- minibuses, driven by volun- port I received, by letter, teers. telephone, sympathy cards We are seeking volun- Community Service Branch – 30 years on and attendance at All teers who may have four ON January 1, 1979 the schools input seen, before or would be good to have as contact me at tomdeans@ Saints’ Church, Springfield, hours to spare on a Monday Essex Police Community since. Now, 30 years later, a many former CSB officers btinternet.com or on 07966 on January 6, for the funeral evening to act or drivers or Service Branch (CSB) was reunion of those officers who there as possible. 428333 as soon as possible of my wife Joyce. escorts on the club’s born. served in the CSB is being held So far, I am in touch with and I will send you details of It left me with a wonderful minibuses to allow mem- It combined, for the first at Essex Police HQ Sports 20 people who plan to attend this one off get-together. memory of comradeship for bers to have an enjoyable time, work with children and Pavilion on Friday, June 26, the buffet lunch and spend It should be a great day so which I am most sincerely evening out. with elderly people at risk and, from 11.30am. time with former colleagues. do come and take part! grateful. We find that the experi- a few months later, probably As this is likely to be the Any former CSB officers Tom Deans Len White ence of former police officers the most comprehensive one and only CSB reunion, it interested in attending should Southend Chelmsford – both of driving minibuses and of dealing with the pub- lic – is invaluable. We will be pleased to hear Retirement do was great from you, even if you are not I WOULD like to thank everyone who came to my retirement available on a regular basis ‘do’ at Rayleigh on February 2 and who contributed to give me but can help out occasional- such wonderful presents. ly. The bust of a constable was magnificent, the Essex Police Please call me on 01702 shield was the best I’ve seen and the engraved tankard is not 1SHIVRMWMRK 474482 or email at only decorative but useful too. [email protected] The weather was not kind and I know that many of you were or ring Chris on 01702 unable to make it to the party but I’ve only retired and, whilst ]SYV;SVOJSVGI# 710714. I am a dinosaur, I have a phone if anyone would like to stay in Alan Watkins touch. Thank you all once again. Leigh-on-Sea Ex-Insp Iain Fraser %VI]SYWIXYTXS Down Memory Lane ... WYGGIIH# ;IVIGSKRMWIXLEX[SVOJSVGIQSHIVRMWEXMSRTVSKVEQWTVIWIRXGSQTPI\ I HAVE been researching my family history surprise, there does not seem to be any for several years and recently, while talking record at HQ or the Essex Police Museum of GLEPPIRKIWMRZSPZMRKXLIQEREKIQIRXSJQYPXMTPIMWWYIW[LMPWXQEMRXEMRMRK to a former colleague, I mentioned the Royal either the event or the photographs. TIVJSVQERGI[MXLMRGVMXMGEPWIVZMGIW Review of Police which took place in Hyde The Royal Review was considered to be the ;IGERTVSZMHIEGSQTVILIRWMZIVERKISJWIVZMGIW[LMGLVIPIEWISJ½GIVWJSV Park, London, in July 1954. first opportunity of the new Queen Elizabeth It comprised several thousand uniformed II to inspect her loyal police forces. JVSRXPMRIHYXMIWERHHIPMZIVIJ½GMIRG]WEZMRKWJSVXLI4SPMGI-REHHMXMSRSYVRI[ officers from all parts of the UK with their I wondered if any photographs are still in +74SPMGMRK7SPYXMSRWXIEQSJJIVWERYRVMZEPPIHFPIRHSJTVEGXMGEPORS[PIHKI varied, coloured, Best Dress uniforms. Essex existence of the Essex contingent and I\TIVMIRGIERHWOMPPWHIZIPSTIHMRXLI4SPMGI[SVOJSVGIQSHIVRMWEXMSRERH had sent along men from each division and whether the owners would be kind enough VIWSYVGMRKEVIREW I was amongst those sent from Grays. I to send me a copy, either by post or via email think Chief Insp F Windsor was in charge. to [email protected] ,S[[IHIPMZIV I do remember someone from HQ taking Ken Chilvers pictures before the review but, to my Colchester ˆ 8EMPSVIHWIVZMGIW ˆ 'SRXVEGX¾I\MFMPMX]WLSVXERHPSRKXIVQXIQTSVEV]ERHTIVQERIRXGSRXVEGXW ˆ 6IWTSRWMZIWIVZMGIHE]WE]IEVWIVZMGI ˆ 6IKMSREPERHPSGEPORS[PIHKI ˆ (IHMGEXIHEGGSYRXQEREKIVW ˆ 8LVSYKLXLI)7*% %HIGGS 6IXMVIHSVVIXMVMRK4SPMGI3J½GIVSV4SPMGI7XEJJ#;IZEPYI]SYVI\TIVMIRGI 4PIEWIGSRXEGX%PI\0MEWMHIWSR

+74SPMGMRK7SPYXMSRW 8IPITLSRI 1SFMPI  I RECENTLY came across these old photographs taken *E\ in the summer of 1996. My wife and I were spending the )QEMPEPI\PMEWMHIW$TSPMGMRKWSPYXMSRWGSYO day at Heybridge Basin and came across the underwater search team during a training session. -RXIVRIX[[[TSPMGMRKWSPYXMSRWGSYO Jack Faulkner, Southend  Do you recognise yourself or know who is in the pictures? Contact The Law editor Heather Turner at the address at the top of this page if you have any information 10 The Law, March Classified2009 People

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While Julie Pritchet, Sheila room, shared bathroom, downstairs while Chief Insp Simon Dobinson large terrace for sunbathing and al Donations may be made in his Collins and Dale Zimmermann, fresco dining. Ring Karen or Chris WC, own lounge, driveway, quiet area. has replaced Mark Wheeler at memory to the Essex Wildlife Trust Non-smoker £75pw. all of Communications Division, have McAulay on 01625 431373 or 07881 Basildon. or Essex Air Ambulance and sent c/o been awarded contact centre Level 3 614045 or visit www.lanzarotesun.net And Chief Insp Glen Westley P G Oxley funeral directors, 43-47 NVQs in from Braintree College. MUNDESLEY, Norfolk, two-bedroom Cars for sale moves from Basildon on promotion to High Street, Walton on the Naze house, sleeps four to six, 400 yards And Pc Mick Dunham, of become Southend district commander. CO14 8BE. Weapons Training, and Gary from beach. 20 per cent police dis- FORD Fiesta 1.3 LX, N reg, good con- Retirements count, from £165. 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Picture by Mary Cotter Officers commended for actions OFFICERS from Shoebury, Rochford, Due to their quick response, the and Rescue Service arrived that she Clacton and Colchester have received girl later made a full recovery in could safely be helped from the build- Chief Constable’s Commendations. hospital. ing. Constables Adam Westall and Paul Constables Alan Proud, from Both constables and the woman Dines, both from Clacton Rochford Neighbourhood Specialist were treated for smoke inhalation Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) Team, and Gillian Brettell, from but all made a full recovery. Name and rank: ...... received commendations for their Shoebury NPT, both received And sergeants Katie Mead and professionalism and determination commendations for their bravery and Andrew Drake, from Colchester NPT, when a girl suffered respiratory determination at the scene of a fire in were commended for their profes- Station: ...... Home tel: ...... failure after she took an unknown a multi-occupancy building in sionalism at the scene of a fatal road substance. Westcliff. traffic collision involving a young girl Date: ...... Signed: ...... Both officers and their colleagues When they arrived, they were in March last year. saw her health was deteriorating and informed that a woman was still Both officers were off duty when Send to The Editor, The Law, Internal Communications, Essex Police HQ. decided to take her directly to trapped inside the building. Without they witnessed the incident and they  Advertisers should be aware that The Law is now published on the internet and any hospital in the back of their car. concern for their own safety, they made valiant attempts to stabilise telephone numbers given will be in the public domain. No internal or direct-dial work However, in the car, the girl suf- went up to the landing, which was the condition of the young girl, who phone numbers should be given as contacts in the adverts. Only adverts from those directly connected to Essex Police (either serving or retired) fered numerous cardiac arrests so Pc alight and filled with smoke, and had severe head injuries. will be accepted. Adverts should be restricted to a maximum of 24 words and repeat Westall and Pc Dines stopped at the made several attempts to rescue the Both Sgt Mead and Sgt Drake did ads should be re-submitted on a monthly basis. The deadline is the 20th of each month. roadside to continue cardio- stranded woman. all they could to prolong the young The Law team reserves the right to edit or omit any advert. pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and Due to the severe heat and smoke, girl’s life but she later died in hosp - wait for assistance. it was only when Essex County Fire ital as a result of her injuries. Sports & social The Law, March 2009 11 Brentwood guys prove they Hello Dolly! is the latest are tougher than most ... musical FOUR Brentwood officers took part in the decided they were going float over to England Tough Guy 2009 competition – billed as ‘one and it actually began snowing. production of the hardest events a body can take’. “That and the -4C wind-chill that we had to ESSEX Police Musical Society Richie Dulson, Dave Ware, Mark suffer whilst jumping in and out of freezing return with the show Hello Crouchman and Simon Pech completed the water every 30 seconds wasn’t particularly Dolly, a musical comedy. eight-mile course – set across farmland in enjoyable. Picture the scene: it’s Perton, Staffordshire – together in 2hrs “There were more than 600 cases of Yonkers, New York State, at 28mins at position 1,392 out of more than hypothermia and a number of broken bones the turn of the 20th century. 4,000 competitors. and sprains, none of which, I’m pleased to Matchmaker and all-round Pech said afterwards: “On behalf of all of say, happened to any of us. fixer Dolly Levi is in town  us, I can say it was the coldest, dirtiest, “However, we are all pleased with complet- seeking a wife for widower Half-way round the Tough Guy course, from left to right, muddiest, most mentally and physically- ing the course and will hopefully be doing it Richie Dulson, Dave Ware, Mark Crouchman and Simon Horace Vandergelder, the rich challenging thing we have ever done. again – probably in the summer though,” local entrepreneur and owner Pech Picture by Louise Ashworth “The day we did it was when Russian winds added Pech. of a local store ... but is she secretly after Horace herself? Meanwhile, Ambrose, a local artist, hopes to marry Horace’s niece Ermengarde but can he convince Horace he has a future? And two of Horace’s store Triple champions again! assistants, Cornelius and Barnaby, dream of excitement AS predicted, the force cross- many miles away in New York, country teams completed an historic and the chance to meet a city clean-sweep of the honours for the girl! second season running. Later, the scene changes to Following the cancellation of the fifth and New York City where final regional cross-country league last Cornelius and Barnaby have arrived seeking adventure. month, organisers based their results on the They meet hat shop-owner four fixtures which had been completed. Irene Molloy and her assistant And, as Essex had been leading all the team Minnie Fay. categories, they successfully retained the men’s, Dolly has previously women’s and veterans categories. arranged for Horace to meet Individual results saw Russ Welch come third Irene as a perspective match. overall in the men’s category and Dave Wood Cornelius, Barnaby, Irene second in the veterans’ over-40 (V40) section. and Minnie decide to go to din- Team captain Mick Bond was the top veteran, ner at the world-famous based on the whole season and also won the V50 Harmonia Gardens competition, with team-mate Don English in Restaurant where, to their runners-up spot, while, demonstrating that surprise, they find Horace, commitment can bring its reward, Steve King Dolly and –unbeknown to received the V45 award. Horace – Ambrose and And the most determined Essex runner this Ermengarde. season, Amanda Pollard, was second in the women’s When the Polka starts every- category. thing descends into farce! Bond said: “Although not amongst the prize-win- Suffice to say all ends well ners, a special mention should also go to John with all parties happy and Jackson and Pete Bryan, who both competed in all there’s loads of fun along the four races and made valuable contributions to the way! overall team scores.” As EPMS fans would expect,  The Eastern / South East Regional Police Cross- the show is full of great songs Country Running Championships were held in such as Put On Your Sunday Kent last month. Clothes, Before The Parade Having already retained the men’s, veterans’ and Passes By, Elegance, Ribbons women’s league titles, the challenge for Essex was to Down My Back, It Only Takes repeat that success in the regional championships. A Moment and, of course, Hello However, they were scuppered at the off when Dolly! they failed to field any women runners. Hello Dolly! will be per- Last season, the men and the veterans easily formed in the Assembly Hall completed the double but three of that winning at Essex Police HQ, off squad had missed the whole of this winter.  Sandford Road in Springfield, Essex captain Mick Bond saw his London Some of the members of the victorious – and historic – Essex cross-country team: Dave Wood, Chelmsford, from Tuesday, Marathon training pay off with fifth place overall and John Jackson, Don English, Russ Welch, Derek Walker and John Mackenzie with Mick Bond, April 21 to Saturday, April 25. first in the V50 section as he led his team to victory. kneeling Performances start at 7.30pm Dave Wood put in the performance of his life, com- with a Saturday matinee at ing sixth overall and second in the V40 section. veterans’ winning teams. Making a return after hold off team-mates and V50 John Mackenzie 2.30pm. Russ Welch, the only non-veteran runner, came injury in his only race this winter, Derek Walker (25th) and V45 Steve King (30th). This month, the  Tickets cost £8, £6.50 seventh overall. He was followed home by V50 Don (14th) found the course a challenge. V40 John team competes in the PSUK championships in concessions and there is also English in 13th place to complete the men’s and Jackson (22nd) once again battled all the way to Cumbria. a discount for group bookings on some nights. Please contact the following Football veterans win through to league cup final members for tickets and more information on 0300 333 4444 ESSEX Police veterans’ football team have reached came from behind to win after going behind in the date yet to be arranged. and key in the relevant the final of their league cup. first half.  extension number: Lynda The veterans had been due to face Suffolk Police Barkway ext 50739; Sally They beat Ford Basildon Reserves 2-1 away on “The second half was a much improved perform- at home in the PSUK regional league on February February 21 in the semi-final of the Essex Veterans ance and we were rarely under pressure. Goals Summers ext 480648; or Peter League Division Two Cup. from Steve Brook and Barry Hooper won us the 18 but Suffolk withdrew. Buckley ext 50893 Manager Joe Wrigley said: “It was a very solid game.”  In their league match on February 28, the Vets display despite the close score-line and Essex Police Now they face Vichouse Sports in the final, on a beat Leigh Ramblers 3-2. We welcome all sports reports – whether of a Croker Cup force competition, such as Top lottery prize travels to South Eastern the Croker Cup or a THE Croker Cup swimming gala was staged on February SOUTH Eastern constable Simon Page (NPT); Pc Alistair Sims, of Laindon SOCD Financial Investigations; national police 1 and South Eastern took the took the honours in the February force Road Policing Unit (RPU); Pc Sarah Trevers, of Chelmsford; competition, such as honours. lottery draw, winning first prize of Kevin Elbrow, of the Force Information James Storey, of Stansted; PSUK. Results were: £3,000. Room (FIR); Sgt Robert Dalton, of Pc Jerry White, of Witham North NPT; And if you have been 1 South Eastern; 2 Eastern; Second prize of £1,000 went to Amy Stansted; Pc James Gibson, of FIR; Pc Lynda Morris, of Burnham NPT; Pc 3 HQ; 4 Western; 5 South Dean, of HQ Crime Division, and Pc Pc Robert Brettell, of Rayleigh RPU; James O’Connell, of Pitsea successful in any other Western; 6 Central. Amanda Staples, of Waltham Abbey, Jacqueline Lovegrove, of HQ Crime Neighbourhood Support Team; competition, whether This means that the overall takes the £500 third prize. Division; and Pc Lorraine Lambert, of Angela Guy, of Rayleigh; police-related or not, we Croker Cup points now stand Winners of £100 prizes were: Communications Division. Dc Alex Webb, of Great Dunmow; would also like to hear. as: Frederick Stannard, retired; William Winners of £50 prizes were: Ds Angela Garrard, of HQ Crime 1 South Eastern 65 points; Pirie, retired; Margaret Coles, of HR; Pc Kevin Thomas, of the Force Support Division; Gary Franklin, retired; Contact The Law editor 2 HQ 57; 3 Central 31; Yvonne De Young, of HQ Crime Unit; Insp Ian Coleman, of Stansted; John Wilson, of HQ Crime Division; and Heather Turner on ext 4 Eastern 31; 5 Western 28; Division; Rose Kinman, of Witham Gary Skull, retired; Dc Richard Atkins, Sgt Steven Parry, of Southend Central 54337 or via email 6 South Western 27. South Neighbourhood Policing Team of Great Dunmow; Michelle Lehan, of NPT. 12 The Law, March 2009 News Our Council Prison for pair Tax is still the Uniform ‘makeover’ who conspired lowest of all to cultivate shire forces cannabis ESSEX Police Authority has brings PCSOs into line TWO men have been jailed once again set the lowest for a total of 15 years for Council Tax precept of all the PCSOs in Essex are having a by Bill Stock policy and strategy regarding PCSOs, conspiring to cultivate shire forces in the country. auditing and inspection and providing cannabis. From next month, Essex mini-makeover to bring them Phi van Duong, 40, from uniforms will not change. Steve Kettle, advice to divisional command teams. residents will pay an extra into line with a new national Southend, was sentenced to the force’s Extended Policing Family 12p a week – or 4.93 per cent However, the overall supervision of nine years’ imprisonment uniform for community sup- Co-ordinator, said that it was hoped that – towards policing the county. PCSOs will remain with sergeants on and Tap van Duong, 31, from port officers. all the new identifying marks on PCSO Authority members set a neighbourhood policing teams. Laindon, received six years uniforms would be in place by March 31. revenue budget of £260million The change will also affect Essex Mr Kettle said: “The main purpose of when they appeared at He explained: “The NPIA decided that for 2009/10 at a meeting last Police cadets, who until now have the PCSO manager will be to develop Basildon Crown Court last the 43 police forces of England and month. worn a royal blue hatband – the and deliver a programme of work to month. Wales needed to standardise the uniform The government provides same colour which has been chosen The court heard that Phi of PCSOs and clearly distinguish them enhance the role of PCSOs and £178million of this through van Duong was responsible for all PCSOs nationally. from regular officers.” maximise the delivery of Neighbourhood the police grant, revenue sup- for setting up and running The changes follow the National PCSOs will continue to wear royal blue Policing. port grant and business numerous cannabis produc- Policing Improvement Agency’s (NPIA) epaulettes on their shirts but these will “The new role also demonstrates the rates. tion farms which, if fully review of the work and powers of PCSOs, now also be worn on fluorescent coats important part that PCSOs play in The rest – £82million – is harvested, would have which was published in July last year. and fleeces so there is no doubt the raised through Council Tax. community engagement, providing grossed more than £2million One of the main recommendations was wearer is a PCSO “whatever time of the The figures mean that reassurance policing and high-visibility in illegal income. that PCSO identifying features should year”. Essex Police continues to ask patrols and delivering a high-quality In May 2007, police dis - be consistent nationally and include a In addition, the wording displayed on for the lowest Council Tax service to the public.” covered several cannabis royal blue cap band, royal blue PCSO uniforms will state Police precept of all the shire forces. The extended policing family factories in the Southend epaulettes and a royal blue tie. Community Support Officer, in a consis- The Essex Police precept area and soon recognised a So, to avoid confusion, Essex Police tent size and style of typeface. co-ordinator will continue to be responsi- for a Band D-rated property cadets have shed their blue hatbands  ble for the Community Service link to Phi van Duong, who for 2009/10 will be £128.25, CHANGES are also in store for the and will wear just their cap badge until Acreditation Scheme (CSAS), Police had previously been arrested an increase of £6.03 on management of Essex’s 460 PCSOs with in 2005 in relation to three March 31, when they will switch to a Support Volunteers (PSVs), Essex Watch 2008/09. the creation of a PCSO manager’s post. cannabis factories found in silver hat band – the colour which the and Neighbourhood Watch groups, street Essex Police Authority The new manager will be responsible houses in Southend. chairman Robert Chambers Essex PCSOs had been wearing. Cadet for implementing national and force pastors and community crime fighters. However there was said: “I am extremely pleased insufficient evidence to that we continue to have the  prosecute him. lowest precept of all the shire Getting in A covert operation by the forces. some practice Serious and Organised Crime “With just a 12p increase prior to the big Directorate was carried out per week, the people of Essex day are, from over six months and detec- will be receiving an even bet- tives established that Phi ter police service with more left, van Duong was linked to 41 bobbies on the beat with an PCSO Al cannabis factories in houses increase of approximately Barley, and industrial premises in 112 police officers, 18 staff Purfleet, Southend, Basildon and 150 special constables.” Sgt Matt and London. The revenue budget Garratt, Tap van Duong was work- includes savings of £9million, David Fogerty, ing directly for him and evi- of which £6million will be Supt Jed dence was gathered which available for reinvestment in showed they were setting up the force. Stopher, the factories, using false This growth includes full Pc Gary Nash names and providing false funding for the first 110 and Sgt Gerry stories to the landlords of the police officers recruited this Parker properties they were renting. current financial year under After the case, DCI Terry Operation Apex, the ambition Haines said: “Essex Police for policing in Essex. Not pictured: takes a tough stance on crim- Operation Apex aims to Pc Natacha inals who produce and deal in recruit a total of 600 extra drugs. new officers for the force in Nicholson and “This six-month covert the next three or four years. Pc Matt operation was a well-planned The re-invested savings Hylands and executed example of our will also help to: commitment to tackling  increase the number, crime head-on and making visibility and effectiveness of  the streets of Essex safer.” uniformed police officers and A TEAM from Essex Police will be pounds for various charities. To further aid their fundraising special constables in running this year’s London Marathon But this time it’s personal – his mum efforts, the marathon team are hosting neighbourhood policing – dressed in police uniform, chasing a almost died from organ failure a charity night at the sports pavilion Punch to face teams team of ‘robbers’. recently, following a bout of at Essex Police HQ on Saturday, April  fund the maintenance of The team formed to raise £10,000 for pneumonia. 4 at 7.30pm. the new case and custody vital equipment in the intensive care He says that if it wasn’t for the efforts As well as a raffle and charity auction ends in jail system – part of a national unit (ICU) at Broomfield Hospital in of the ICU team and the level of care – including VIP V Festival tickets, A MAN has been jailed for criminal justice scheme Chelmsford. and compassion they provided, it is tickets to see Coldplay and Oasis at unlawfully killing a Clacton Members are Supt Jed Stopher, unlikely she would be making a full whereby information is Wembley and tickets to any British man with a punch to the face. Sgt Gerry Parker, Sgt Matt Garratt recovery now. electronically transferred touring car championship – live music Mark Brewer, 22, of East and Pc Matt Hylands, of Mobile Supt Stopher and the team will be from the point of arrest to will be provided by Colchester band London, last month received the point of the case being Support Division, Pc Gary Nash, of putting their best foot forward in the a public protection sentence Eastern Division, Pc Natacha marathon on Sunday, April 26, Take The Biscuit. ‘disposed’ at court.  with a notional four-year jail Chief Constable Roger Nicholson, of Harlow, PCSO Al Barley, He said: “We are appealing for as Tickets, costing £5 each, and more term for unlawfully killing Baker said he was delighted of Chelmsford, and TV Unit producer much sponsorship as we can – our information are available by emailing Dominic Barritt. Brewer will the force again had the low- and editor David Fogerty. target of £10,000 is just as much a Sgt Matt Garratt at also be put on licence for the est Council Tax precept of all Leading them is Supt Stopher, who challenge as the 26.2-mile run but you [email protected] foreseeable future. the shire forces. has previously run five London never know when any of our lives will  To sponsor the Essex Police team, visit Mr Barritt sustained a Of the small increase in the Marathons and raised thousands of depend on the ICU.” www.justgiving.com/policemarathon head injury after he was precept for 2009/10, Mr punched in the face outside Baker said: “We are commit- the Food and Drink store in ted to ensuring continued Walton High Street early on improvement and value for Cheque Central to air ambulance fundraising August 23 last year and died money in our service. two days later in hospital. “Not only does this increase CENTRAL divisional commander Chief often life-saving service to the people of money went to the best of possible Brewer, 22, of Leytonstone, allow us to give the people of Supt Graeme Bull has handed over a Essex and it gives me great pleasure to causes. We had a great time, made even was arrested on August 26, Essex what they want, which cheque for £900 to the Essex Air present them with this money raised by more satisfying by the knowledge we and subsequently charged is increased visibility and Ambulance. officers and staff in Central Division. were helping Essex Air Ambulance.” with murder. improved performance, it Air ambulance fundraising co-ordina- “I’d particularly like to thank Lorraine The maximum flying time to the near- He admitted manslaughter also ensures that we meet tor Nezda Blyth accepted the cheque. Thompson, of our Divisional Intelligence est hospital from anywhere is Essex is when he appeared at the operational needs of Chief Supt Bull said: “The Essex Air Unit, who worked tirelessly in organ - eight minutes. The air ambulance is Chelmsford Crown Court in Essex Police.” Ambulance provides a fantastic and ising the charity event and ensuring the funded entirely by donations. December.

NEXT ISSUE: April 2009 COPY DEADLINE: March 20, 2009 THIS ISSUE PRINTED: March 6, 2009 The Law is edited by Heather Turner tel: 01245 452029 / 0300 333 4444 ext 54337 email [email protected] Published by Essex Police HQ, Chelmsford, Essex Printed by Harmsworthprinting (Plymouth)