Diving deep A look below the surface with the North West Police Underwater Search Unit Child Sexual Exploitation: A look at the psychology underpinning the crime
What would you do? Domestic violence issues tackled in new web app We Stand Together: Celebrating our differences against hatred and intolerance
Columns
Staying strong amid continuing uncertainty WE are now in a new financial year but continue to be in a period of uncertainty. It will take some time for the new Government to establish itself and its spending plans, but there is nothing to suggest that there will any change to our future of reduced budgets and further cuts in staffing. In the coming months staff will see a series of communication events to keep them informed on changes in GMP and get their views. The Force has changed a lot over recent years but we will have to change much more. We have changed our performance focus and now concentrate on protecting vulnerable people
rather than statistics for their own sake. Increasingly we are working in new ways with other agencies such as the way we tackle organised crime and our recent agreement for policing the tram network. The nature of crime is changing along with the nature of the threat from terrorism and the impact of social media. The way we manage and lead our staff also must change. With a smaller workforce we will need a more capable workforce trained to a higher level with fewer layers of management and more responsibility for the front line. We need to hold on to some of the great traditions of policing. On the other hand we need to be more open with each other, respecting people for being themselves and being honest about their
feelings. What does not change is the dedication of our staff and the many examples of great work every day. Recent weeks have seen a number of significant arrests, court cases and seizures of criminal assets as well as important community projects such as our new volunteer cadet unit in Moss Side. Despite the media coverage, policing surveys show that the confidence of the public in policing has never been higher and that it is because the public recognise that our staff are doing their best in challenging circumstances.
Sir Peter Fahy, Chief Constable
Rising to the task in challenging times POLICING is facing real challenges in Greater Manchester and across the country. Our society faces its own new or newly recognised demands and threats whether from Middle East inspired terrorism, protecting the vulnerable or growing cyber crime. The public expects GMP to play a key role in dealing with these whilst continuing to provide neighbourhood policing and a response for more
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traditional crime types. And of course resources and officer numbers continue to shrink. Despite this, police officers, staff and PCSOs regularly and, for the most part cheerfully, rise to the task of helping make our communities safer. Over the last few months I’ve been out and about across Greater Manchester meeting local people and seeing how communities are coping and building safer, stronger neighbourhoods. I recently met residents in a part of Bury who have transformed what was once dubbed a no-go estate by working together with local police, the Council and local housing association. The result is a
drop in crime and a real sense of community spirit. Every corner of Greater Manchester boasts examples like this. Local partnerships making communities better places to live in and GMP is central to those partnerships. It’s important that we celebrate this, sharing the good news to spur others into action. I am grateful to everyone in GMP for the role you each play, despite the pressures you face, to build that safer Greater Manchester.
Tony Lloyd, PCC
News
Spotlight
With thanks to the following people for their contribution to this issue:
04 University challenge
12 Child Sexual Exploitation
MMU students undergo exchange programme with GMP
A look at the psychology of CSE with expert Zoe Lodrick
05 We Stand Together
13 What lies beneath
Celebrating our differences against hatred and intolerance.
Going under the water with the NW Police Underwater Search Unit
17 Thomas’ Grand Day out
06-07 Divisional Roundup
14 OCB: Meet the recruits
A look around what’s happening in GMP’s divisions
New call handlers talk about working in the Operational Communications Branch
PCSOs go above and beyond to help a young victim of burglary
08 Schengen changes & IT future New European-wide alert system begins and an update on replacing OPUS and GMPICS
GMP Life
Chief Inspector Umer Khan for his work on the #WeStandTogether campaign
Contents
Zoe Lodrick for her expertise on Child Sexual Exploitation
19 All about Jack & Cadet news Memoirs of CI Wilson, how cadets have inspired a local businessman & egg hunting in Moss Side
15 Farewell Tony & Model recovery 20 Policing Nellie-Style & Obits DCI Tony Heslop retires & Easter Egg hunting in Moss Side
Reflections on the history of women in policing. Obituaries.
16 Letters of Appreciation
21 Kat scores an England call-up
Members of the public thank officers and staff for their work.
PC Kat McGovern earns call up for England NETS netball squad.
Craig Hough for his profiles of the new OCB recruits
PC Tony Darbyshire from the NW Underwater Search Unit
Retired police officer Dennis Wood for his look back at women in policing
Be published in Brief Editorial team: Melissa Mead, Patricia Jones and Krystyna Rudzki Photographers: Chris Oldham and Bill Morris 0161 856 2777 | Picture Desk: Lisa Marks 0161 856 2279 Designed and produced by: Corporate Communications, Force Headquarters, Central Park, M40 5BP Contact numbers: 0161 856 856 5939 / 2238 / 5938
09 Your Call: Domestic Abuse New web app gives people the chance to step into a detective’s shoes
10 PCSO Cucos & Vulnerability review Romanian flair in Bolton & reviewing how we deal with vulnerable people.
Email: Brief@gmp.police.uk Brief online: www.gmp.police.uk/Brief
Articles and contributions for the next edition of Brief should be submitted by
Friday 26 June 2015 3
News
University challenge NINE Manchester Metropolitan University students have gained valuable experience from an exchange programme with GMP. Of the nine, two were recently presented with a certificate of achievement for their work. Emma Crowther and Sarah Bates are both students at Manchester Metropolitan University and they have been able to gather lots of fascinating information as part of their dissertation. Their research has also been invaluable in the specialist areas that they have been working. Sarah has been researching the impact of the Welfare Reform Act on sex workers that will help the Manchester Against Sexual Harm (MASH) team in providing greater
Around the world
support for street sex workers. She has also taken on a volunteering role within MASH that will increase her employability status. She has said that although her course finishes this term, she will be keeping up her MASH volunteering. Emma’s dissertation Pictured left to right: Emma Crowther, Supt Marcus Noden, Ch Insp Patrick McKelvey, Sarah Bates, PC Andrew Marsden is about the social and Insp Alan Kelly change around volunteer police cadets. From her The North Manchester Division research she has been inspired to has been running this initiative become an Assistant Team Leader called the ‘Q Step’ with Manchester in Stockport. Her study of more than Metropolitan University for the last 200 cadets in GMP is the first of its 12 months. The division is now kind in the UK and only the second preparing for next year’s research cadet study of any type to be projects. commissioned by a police force.
COMMENDED: PC Neil Parker, along with two members of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) have been recognised for rescuing two men from a canal in Rochdale last year. County Fire Officer Steve McGuirk said: “I would like to congratulate them for their quick‐thinking and brave actions, which undoubtedly saved the lives of two men.” Pictured left to right: Volunteer Coordinator Nic Wharmby, PC Neil Parker, Group Manager Paul Starling and Chief Fire Officer Steve McGuirk.
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GREECE: A man has been convicted of stealing electricity ‐ despite the fact he is dead. A Greek court convicted the man of stealing electricity from a power utility and dealt out a six‐month suspended prison sentence in spite of the fact he had died just a few weeks before. BRAZIL: A suspected drug dealer’s dog has avoided arrest after surrendering alongside its owner during a police raid. Police had been monitoring the gang for some time before carrying out a joint operation alongside the military, seizing drugs and weapons. Seeing its owners obeying the command to lie down, the loyal dog ran to lay down alongside them. UNITED KINGDOM: One police force has turned policing on its head….accidentally. A print error has spelt ‘police’ upside down on uniforms. At least two officers have been wearing them. NEW ZEALAND: Staff at animal shelter SPCA Auckland have managed to train dogs to drive cars to prove that old dogs can learn new tricks. At least four different dogs have been trained to steer, accelerate, brake and even change gears.
News in Brief has been set up to speed up digital investigations. The unit, based at Bradford Park, brings together the hi‐ tech crime, mobile phone and CCTV units for the first time to provide a one stop shop for digital investigations. The DIU is available on extension 62892 seven days a week (Mon‐Fri 7am‐6pm and Sat‐Sun 10am‐ 6pm). The CCTV Unit is also available on extension 63002 seven days a week 8am‐8pm for CCTV retrievals and
Justice and Custody intranet pages. Alternatively if you have any questions you can email Lesley Cullen or call 07824 868 449.
The Force has changed the way it deals with managing attendance at work. There will be a much stronger emphasis on line managers working with individual members of staff who are off sick to understand the reason for their absence and to help them return to work. For more information visit the People Pages on the Intranet.
The local NPT in North Manchester
advice.
Cases involving witnesses under the age of 10 will be fast‐tracked under a new scheme launched this month. The Young Witness Initiative aims to bring cases to trial much more quickly to give the child witness the best chance of remembering the incident and to make the criminal justice process much less stressful for them. For more information including an FAQ document please visit the Criminal
attended the Ukrainian Centre in Cheetham Hill to help promote diversity within their communities. Ch Insp Patrick McKelvey said: “The afternoon was a great success and an opportunity to bring people from our diverse communities together. At the same time we were also able to promote our local Independent
Peter Kay
By Ch Insp Umer Khan GREATER Manchester in many ways reflects the changing world we live in, with its rich array of cultures and diverse communities. This of course presents us with new policing challenges. We have seen how conflicts in other parts of the world have touched a chord within local communities, leading to expressions of protests and increased tensions and we have seen forces increasing their threat levels as a result of events around the world. Alongside these tensions there has been an increase in hate crimes where different groups and communities have been left feeling vulnerable. The #WeStandTogether campaign celebrates our differences against hatred and intolerance to build a safer and stronger United Kingdom. Part of our strategy is to promote British values and make a stance against hatred and intolerance.
News
A new Digital Investigation Unit (DIU)
The Home Secretary recently
Together we stand spoke about British values. She spoke about enjoying our individual freedoms, to lead varied lives, to live in diverse communities and to do all of these things while still living peacefully, respectfully and harmoniously alongside one another. The Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy recently launched the national campaign at Manchester Town Hall. There are borough-wide launch events taking place where locally, we want our community groups to incorporate the message and ideals of this campaign into their events and activities. Many officers and staff are already sharing images of their work in communities to make a stance against hatred and extremism. Along with a dedicated social media page, neighbourhood officers, PCSOs and other colleagues are encouraged to promote and tweet messages from events and activities using the hashtag #We StandTogether.
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Divisional News
Divisional Roundup Trafford A thief who stole from three vulnerable Old Trafford pensioners was jailed for twoand-a-half years on Monday 20 April. Julie Walters, 49, admitted three offences of stealing from three different pensioners, two aged 81 and the other 80 who live in sheltered accommodation. In each of the crimes she brazenly conned the victims by telling stories about why she needed to get access to their property or borrow money.
Rochdale
Bolton FOUR people were charged with rape and trafficking offences after two women and a child were rescued from a house in Bolton. All are Hungarian nationals. Both the women and child were safeguarded by GMP and other agencies prior to being reunited with their families in Hungary. Officers established the two women had been forced to work as prostitutes, beaten and subjected to abuse over a period of several months.
Op Retriever won best team performance
OUTSTANDING work was recognised at Rochdale’s Divisional Excellence Awards on Thursday 26 March. Hosted by Ch Supt Chris Sykes, the event was also attended by Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jim Battle. Amongst the winners were Mark Lutkevitch for Police Officer of the year and Jennifer Kerr for Police Staff member of the year.
North Manchester IN March two Independent Advisory Group (IAG) members went out on patrol in Cheetham Hill, to see first hand how GMP interacts with local communities. They spoke with residents to promote the benefits of the IAG.
Wigan OVER 150 GMP officers and staff took part in health checks across in a unique scheme. Taking place over four dates, nurses were on site to offer confidential advice, helping to boost wellbeing on the division.
Airport OFFICERS joined together with airport staff to visit a local school in Wythenshawe as part of World of Work day on 24 April. An airport atmosphere was created throughout the entire school and the pupils were able
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to visit Duty Free, security, airfield operations, Monarch Airlines, ground handlers, the Border Force, the Fire Service and of course GMP. The children were given an insight into the respective roles that are performed at the airport
whilst having a lot of fun. For the airport officers, it was a great chance to engage with local school kids as well as help build good working partnerships with other airport authorities and businesses. World of Work day at St Wilfred's CoE in Northenden
A man was arrested following a high-speed chase with police through Bury and Rochdale. The offender stole a van with the owner still in the back. The thief stopped briefly in Ramsbottom to remonstrate with the owner, but set off again with him still on board. The driver sped off towards Bury down Walmersley Road, with the speed of the vehicle throwing the owner out of the back of the van and into the road. Officers then spotted the van in Bury and started a pursuit. The offender stopped and reversed backwards, ramming a police BMW X5 and causing it to overturn. The two officers inside escaped with minor injuries. The van then reversed into a second Police traffic car causing minor damage. At this point the pursuit was terminated and the police helicopter tracked the vans direction and relayed this information to officers. The offender tried to flee but was shortly arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving, drink driving and assault.
South Manchester MEMBERS of the local community were able to accompany officers as they carried out Operation Ingot, which targeted an Organised Crime Group (OCG) based in Wythenshawe. More than 50 crimes were attributed to this OCG and show that they were responsible for more than £1 million of theft and damage. Some members of the community who had been victims themselves were able to watch the warrants being executed, see offenders being arrested and were then provided with an on scene de-brief. One person commented: “To be part of such an operation was not only closure but the icing on the cake. “I would like to say whoever
thought of including aggrieved local residents to participate in this exercise deserves special thanks.” During the operation all 19 members of the Operation Ingot targets were arrested and charged with conspiracy to steal/handle stolen goods, of these 13 were remanded into custody.
TWO men have been jailed after £300,000 worth of cannabis was discovered in Oldham. Jahngheer Younis Ali was sentenced to four years in prison, while Shahnawaz Qumer was sentenced to two years.
Stockport A campaign has been launched to warn local residents to watch out for fraudulent coldcallers. Callers have been falsely claiming there is a requirement to pay for a call-blocking service on residential phone lines.
Tameside A man has been arrested following an investigation into a farm attack in which three cows were killed. The cows had received stab wounds, along with another nine which were seriously injured and consequently had to be destroyed. The incident was linked by
Oldham
Divisional News
Bury
police to an arson attack that took place on the same farm and caused considerable damage. DC Rick McIvor said: "The owner is obviously deeply distressed someone has targeted his business in such a way." Investigations are ongoing.
Salford TWO people have been jailed following a string of incidents where elderly people were deceived and stolen from in their own homes. This led to one of the victims moving out of his family home and into residential care.
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News
Collaboration on an international scale A new system that enables criminal records and alerts to be circulated across Europe is launched this month. The Schengen Information System (SIS) is a European-wide alerts database that will enable forces across the UK to view and act on live time alerts via the Police National Computer. It is anticipated the new system will create an increase in the number of arrests, and with greater flexibility to view information, this should also have a positive impact on investigations. Law Enforcement Agencies will also be able to circulate alerts to member
states helping to gather information for their own investigations. Frontline officers and staff need to familiarise themselves with SIS so that they know what to do when responding to an alert. Det Sgt Helen Critchley from the Force Intelligence Branch said: “The International Liaison Unit will be responsible for ensuring that procedures are in place for officers to follow in respect of all alert types. This information has been created in the form of process flows which provide step by step guidance.
““My team are keen and eager to assist officers and staff as we find ways to use the system to protect our communities.” Nicola Ritson manages the Criminal Records Unit. She said: “This will be a much more efficient way of working together with our European partners. It will also reassure our communities as we work to keep Greater Manchester a safe place to work and live.” The International Liaison Unit (within the Force Intelligence Branch), Operational Communications
Information Management Unit and the Criminal Records Unit are the three points of contact for officers seeking support or guidance. For information visit the FIB Intranet site .
DS Helen Critchley speaks to frontline officers
Designing a new IT future THE two-year programme to remove OPUS and GMPICS, and install a new integrated system is well underway. More than 1,000 members of the Force have been involved so far either through workshops, meetings, drop-in sessions, briefings and other activities. So why is this engagement important? Designing our future systems is a major undertaking and something that can’t be done without the input of everyone who use the technology every day.
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The workshops are a fantastic idea as we move forward with IS Transformation. By ensuring practitioners are fundamental to the change process, GMP is designing a product that meets the demands not only for now, but for the future as policing evolves. The workshop was interesting, challenging and thought provoking.” DI Rob Cousen SCD
“I found the workshop to be extremely useful. It provided the opportunity for officers to be given an insight into future plans and how the Force accepts that we cannot continue with current systems.” PC Phil MacDonald Tameside
“I found the input to be informative and very interesting. I am pleased that GMP is taking the time to speak to those that will need to use the replacement system regularly and take into account our views.” PC Wayne Warner Wigan
“At first I was sceptical about this session. I soon learnt that this wasn't just another workshop. My input REALLY mattered. I, along with everyone else, have complained about our current restrictive, difficult to work with IT systems and this workshop was my opportunity to change how we work. I say to anyone that has similar concerns ‐ if you want better IT get involved in the process.” Insp Muz Kernain Oldham
Want to know more or get involved? To find out more about the upcoming changes to GMPICS and OPUS, you can: Visit our Intranet Site Read our Frequently Asked Questions Read our Fortnightly Blog Email us Look out for updates in your Divisional Orders or Branch Newsletters
A new web app gives the people the opportunity to investigate a report of potential domestic abuse and follow the case through to its conclusion. A new web app that gives people the chance to step into the shoes of a detective and investigate a crime has been launched to great acclaim. “Your Call – Domestic Abuse” has been designed to help illustrate the complexities involved in an investigation and demonstrate the impact investigating a crime can have on people’s lives. Throughout each stage of the investigation the ‘player’ is required to make decisions based on evidence and events as they unfold. This could be from choosing whether to attend a call, interview a suspect or even making an arrest. Only by investigating fully and making the right decisions
can there be a positive outcome. The game was developed by the Corporate Communications Branch in consultation with the Public Protection Division so that the app has an authentic view of a domestic abuse investigation. Detective Chief Superintendent Vanessa Jardine from the Public Protection Division, said: “Your Call: Domestic Abuse is a new and inventive way of making people aware of what can be quite a harrowing and isolating crime. “By putting members of the public in someone else’s shoes they are able to understand the importance of reporting the crime as early as possible. As well as being useful for the public “Your Call” is also a great tool for officers and staff to get an insight into other roles and areas of work. Further scenarios are being developed to illustrate other areas of work, and the next update will
ask people to investigate a Child Sexual Exploitation case. “Your Call” can be played on any computer, tablet or mobile phone by visiting www.yourcall.co.uk If you would like your area of work to be considered for a future “Your Call” scenario, email public.relations@gmp.police.uk
News
E S U B A C I T S E YOUR CALL: DOM If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse from a partner or ex-partner – don’t suffer in silence. Help is available – speak to your line manager or for independent and confidential advice call the Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0161 636 7525 or CiC, the Force’s support and counselling service on 0800 085 1376 or 0207 938 0963.
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News
A Romanian focus in Bolton Andrei Cucos has lived in the UK for 12 years after moving from Romania. Brief caught up with him in Bolton where he works as a Police Community Support Officer. ANDREI Cucos has been a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) since 2007 and has worked in Bolton since he joined. He said: “I cover Bolton town centre and when I moved to the UK I
wanted to work for the police as my mum did in Romania. “I wanted to make a difference to this world and dedicate my life to helping others. “Working within the town centre there is a real wealth of diverse people as they pass through the town on a daily basis and I treat people with dignity and respect at all times no matter what their background, status, circumstances or appearance. “As my first language is Romanian I find that my language skills are required on a daily basis.
Vulnerability review A review team has been set up to ensure that vulnerable people in our communities are safeguarded. The vulnerability review team headed by Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Rumney is currently looking at existing structures to establish if they are sustainable in the light of financial resources available and more recent inspections by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary.
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“Romania is now part of the European Union and I see a growing number of Romanians in Bolton who speak very little English. “Most of the time my role provides a high visible presence within the community, dealing with antisocial behaviour issues such as street drinkers, youths causing annoyance, drug users, shoplifters, reassurance visits to victims of crime and CCTV enquiries. “I want to continue working for the police and hope that one day I can become a regular police officer.”
volume, high risk areas of rape and serious sexual assault investigations, In addition, the team will provide sex/high risk offender management, recommendations to the Force domestic abuse and child protection. Command Team about what levels of “I’ve come into this review with the intervention and service should be aim of learning what works well and provided to vulnerable people based what doesn’t work so well and want to on emerging risks. see the Force make the right changes Det Ch Insp Jane Little is part of the to ensure our services protect team and has spent most of her career vulnerable people as effectively as working in a variety of roles in public possible.” protection. So far the team have been working She said: “This is an urgent piece of with officers and staff in the Public work that should prioritise the high Protection Division so that everyone is
aware of what is happening and that they get the opportunity to challenge any assumptions and provide evidence to support findings. Jane added: “It is clear that everyone has the same aim – to get the best possible outcome for victims and protect the public.” The team also want to hear from you, the experts. So if you would like to have your say please contact Det Insp Ryan Davies, Insp Dave Gilbride or Det Ch Insp Jane Little on extension 62059.
Bit of a different job for our PCSOs last night! A snake was found by residents in Halliwell. RSCPA rescued.
Social Media Praise
officers on reception were extremely helpful—many thanks @gmpolice
@ManCityGirl Big thanks to the officer from @gmpolice who leant some muscle to help get the wheelnuts off my punctured wheel on ten acre lane last night
@EvenThomasSAFE Potentially at least 2 young females, #children were saved from exploitation last night due to the direct approach taken by @gmpolice
@Lindseysankey01 @gmpolice officers at Bury were very helpful when I needed to use Clare’s law. Keep up the good work #gmparewonderful
@soontobenurses #ff @gmpolice fantastic policemen attended my property following concern for DD safety. They were patient and compassionate. Credit to the force
@martinscott1966 @gmpolice we reported @McrFinest Just seen a @gmpolice officer a bike stolen today and within 6 hours we buy a bag of crisps & a Yorkie, store them in now have the bike back! Amazing work guys his hat and pop it back on his head. Legend. thanks so much @garytetchells great service last night… @julesdeakin Just popped into Pendleton Made us feel safe in our home again. Thank Police Station for some advice. The two you
Yes Sir, he can boogie
What’s Trending?
Top Posts
CHIEF Constable Sir Peter Fahy has re-created the recent Cadbury advert featuring the hit song by Baccara, I Can Boogie for charity Forever Manchester to acclaim on social media. The Chief can be seen singing and dancing along to the tune being played by a call centre while waiting for his call to be answered. He is later joined by colleagues who take to their seats in unison to the 70’s disco beats. Sir Peter said: “Forever Manchester is a fantastic local charity which has supported over 20,000 local community projects with grants to help volunteers. So often we see that the best solutions to problems come from local people putting in voluntary effort in their own local areas. This is a great way to deal with issues such as antisocial behaviour, repeat offending, loneliness and isolation.” Watch the video here You can boogie too— click here to make a donation. Views on Facebook: 239,800 People reached on Twitter: 178,067 YouTube views: 6,736
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Spotlight
The psychology of Child Sexual Exploitation ZOE Lodrick, a sexualised trauma specialist delivered a powerful input at a partner event, exploring the psychology underpinning Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE). The majority of CSE perpetrators don’t actually view themselves as sex offenders. By understanding the psychology behind their behaviour we can see more clearly why and how they target their victims. In 1984, sociologist David Finkelhor outlined a model of four preconditions, or steps to a person becoming an abuser:
Motivation Overcome internal inhibitions Address external inhibitors Ensure victim is compliant Of these, ‘overcome internal inhibitions’ is the biggest hurdle to overcome. Potential offenders often use cognitive distortion to justify the abuse to themselves. We all experience cognitive distortion where we convince ourselves that it is OK to have something we want which might be seen as bad or unnecessary. Abusers will use a number of different cognitive distortions to overcome their internal inhibitions. They may convince themselves that someone who is vulnerable or who has an unstable upbringing is already 'broken' and therefore more deserving of the
Zoe Lodrick with DCS Vanessa Jardine
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abuse. Others might seek justification from their peers – if other people are doing it, then it can’t be bad. Once the abuser has addressed any external inhibitors to gain access to a child, the most common way they do this by grooming not only the victim, but those around them. The stereotype of a sex offender is that of a stranger who snatches children off the street. This is however an effective smokescreen for the vast majority of abusers who are likely to be more socially skilled, taking months and years to gain access to a victim via their family and friends. Finally, victim compliancy is the result of this work to gain access to the child and gradually break them down to stop them from speaking out.
Troubled teenage years Evidence shows that the part Zoe Lodrick was really engaging. She challenged perceptions of how sex offenders behave and use of our brain manipulation to groom victims and those around that them to create trust. It really shows the importance in processes making sure we understand how a victim may present information and that we sometimes place an over reliance on expecting them to remember every small detail during has the same a video interview when the trauma of the ordeal level of means that they cannot. development ‐ DC Simon Byrne between ages
Zoe’s talk was really thought 13-23 as provoking ‐ it helped me it does understand the relationships between that people make and how I ages 3can help the victims of abuse. ‐ Attendee 13. As well as this, a vital process takes place as we develop into adulthood and we break from our attachment with our parents or guardians. This occurs perfectly naturally and when it does happen, young adults often seek to replicate the intensity of this bond outside of their family circle with their peers (both in person and online). At this point young adults are particularly open to new relationships, making them more of an easy target for perpetrators of CSE. This goes some way to explaining the often volatile nature of teenagers, and why as an age group they can be particularly susceptible to abuse. For our officers and staff it is important to remember that when teenagers are not seen to behaving ‘logically’ they are most likely processing information and assessing risk in a very different way. They may not even believe themselves to be a victim in the first place. For more information about CSE please visit www.itsnotokay.co.uk
The USU carry out around 350 deployments a year The team covers the largest geographical area in
England and Wales THE North West Police Underwater Search Unit (USU) is one of ten specialist police dive teams in the UK. Formed in 1974, it includes the GMP, Merseyside, Cheshire, North Wales, Lancashire and Cumbria forces. So what exactly does the USU get up to? GMP officer Tony Darbyshire has been on the team since 2011. He spoke to Brief to tell us more...
the murderer, Mark Royle, jailed for life What’s the most unusual job you’ve been called out on? The unit was recently called out to a report of two young girls sighting a skeletal hand in the Manchester Ship Canal. After a thorough search involving police divers a Halloween rubber hand prop was recovered to much mirth from local officers and divers alike…
What types of jobs can your team help with? Apart from the obvious searches for evidence underwater, our unit takes part in searches of confined spaces, tunnels and silos. We can also recover badly decomposed bodies from outdoors, on land or in dwellings. We have a wide range of boats that can support police operations such as recent Royal Visits to Salford Quays. My advice would be to always telephone the unit to see if we can help - no job is ever too small.
Tell us more about who makes up your team. Our team comprises of one Inspector, one Sergeant and ten Constables, made up from officers of each constituent force. All of us are trained as HSE commercial divers and our skills include specialist training in confined spaces, CT search, boating qualifications and first aid.
64 bodies were recovered by the USU last year Chief Superintendent John O’Hare was once a member
of the unit and is still a fully qualified police diver The unit is the most technologically advanced team in
the UK, utilising sonar and remotely operated vehicles
Spotlight
What lies beneath
The unit is free at the point of delivery, no charges are
evermade to individual departments or budgets The unit are available 24/7, 365 days year and dives can take place day or night. You can reach them via the Force Duty Officer or Marine Policing on 01606 363 993 / 994.
What is the main thing you want officers to remember about the USU? The team are all police officers with What major investigations has a wide breadth of experience. It should your team been involved with? never be assumed that there is no forensic value just because an item or The unit made a crucial impact in the investigation into the murder of Mrs body has been submerged in water. Nellie Geraghty. Our officers recovered Our divers are trained in the Mrs Geraghty’s handbag and a card recovery of bodies and evidence in with her name on from the River Beal. order to preserve as much as possible. Obtaining this evidence helped to get
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Spotlight
OCB: Meet the new recruits
THE Operational Communications Branch (OCB) is an area that everyone in the Force has contact with at some stage, yet when people visit the department for the first time they are often very surprised at how different it is than most would imagine. Some of the new call takers from a recent recruitment drive spoke to Brief about their experience since joining the OCB.
By Craig Hough What did you expect of the role before you joined? I didn’t really know what to expect as it is something so different than Rhian Toland what I have ever done before. I knew what the job entailed and what would be expected of me but what I didn’t know was how different the situations would be that I would be faced with everyday. In what ways has this view changed since you started? Before joining GMP I had a rough idea of what the police did - I just didn’t realise how much the police actually deal with and since being in the role my views have completely changed. Call handlers deal with such a variety of different calls and it really does make you realise how privileged some of us are. Is there anything that surprised you about working here? The one thing that really did surprise me was that I thought working
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for the police would mean I would have the minute but I want to get stuck in to be in serious mode 24/7, but in fact it and see as much as possible. is the total opposite!
Did you come from within GMP or externally? Externally. I applied after GMP advertised for Briony Gibson friends and family members of existing GMP staff - my mum works on the radios.
What did you do before coming to the OCB? What haven’t I done! I’ve had a variety of job roles from working in retail to varied levels of sales and Benjamin Mills insurance. What did you expect of the role before you joined? Long hours, no pattern of sleep at all and to learn an awful lot, I can safely say it hasn’t disappointed.
Was there anything you found about the role that was unexpected? Everything! I’m joking. Some of the cases that get reported did surprise me and the public’s perspective of what is a What surprised you most about crime. working here? I think probably the same as Do you have any future plans now everyone when they first started - I you’re in the OCB? thought I’d struggle a lot more with the I plan to stay call handling for at shift rotas and dealing with the type of least another two years but then I would calls we get on a daily basis, but so far I like to work my way round and seem to be doing ok with it! experience numerous different roles. I’m unsure of what those roles are at
Do you have any future plans now you’re in the OCB? When I first joined GMP I had the intention of going into being a police officer within a few years, as that’s what I’ve always wanted to do. Although that may still happen, since coming into the OCB I would be more than happy to progress within the branch as I believe it is a great place to work and everybody I have met so far has been more than welcoming.
The OCB are always on the lookout for new talent. A video about a day in the life of a call handler is available to view on the intranet.
Farewell Tony
A model recovery FOLLOWING a stroke two years ago, security officer Ashley Johnson has been building a model village to aid his recovery and is now looking for a permanent site to exhibit his achievements. After surviving bowel cancer in 2005, Ashley had a massive stroke in 2013 that left him almost paralysed. Through the Stroke Association, Ashley began to visit Loxley House Daycare Centre in Dukinfield and there he began building models from lollipop sticks as part of his road to recovery. Ashley said: “I remember as a child visiting parks and seeing a model village so when I first visited Loxley House I had the idea of building the model village myself. “The building work has really helped me. It has improved my stability and dexterity and the movement is great physiotherapy as it involves stretching, bending and balancing.” “I would love to create a tourist attraction where stroke patients or
GMP Life
inspector. A well respected officer, Tony worked in a number of divisional CID units, SOCG, Xcalibre Task Force and the Economic Crime Unit. He has always had great credibility and respect by those who supervised him and those who worked for him. He was involved in the riots in 2011 and received a Chief Constable’s Commendation for leading from the front when arresting looters. This is just one of 16 awards he has received throughout his career. He has played football all his life and was renowned for being tough in the tackle, but with ability in abundance. It was fitting that a testimonial game was organised to see his very successful police career come to a closure. FULLTIME was called on a 30 year The match took place at Platt policing career for DCI Tony Heslop at a Lane Football Complex. SOCG took an special sporting event. early two goal lead, with Heslop scoring Last month the Serious and a magical free kick leaving the keeper Organised Crime Group (SOCG) took on with no chance. After half time the DSU the Dedicated Surveillance Unit (DSU) in pulled two goals back to level the score a football match to commemorate the but SOCG finally won 5-2. retirement of Det Ch Insp Tony Heslop. A great footballing send off and all Tony Heslop joined GMP in 1985 and the best on your retirement. after a short spell in uniform spent the majority of his career as a detective from constable up to, and including chief
other neurological patients, young and old could come along and see what they could also achieve. They could even build their own models and add to the village. “Unfortunately Loxley House isn’t big enough to house the model village so if there is anyone out there who can help please get in touch. I would love to be able to help others in Tameside, playing a part in the future prosperity of the borough and a lasting reminder of what can be achieved despite what is thrown at you.” If you can help Ashley, please contact Brief@gmp.police.uk Next month is Action on Stroke month. If you have a story to share please get in touch.
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Letters
Letters of Appreciation I was experiencing lots of antisocial behaviour and eventually a bit of intimidation which was dealt with so fantastically by PSCO Donna Longhurst and PCSO Anne-Marie Simpkin. They were so approachable and understanding, really caring and took all my fears seriously. In particular I have to mention PCSO Carl Davies and the amazing work he does in the Platt Bridge area. Every concern I had was taken so seriously and acted upon. The work the PCSOs do in the Platt Bridge area is so invaluable. Ms Peel, Platt Bridge We want to thank every single police officer who was involved in the search for our daughter Samantha who went missing on 27 January. From the poor person who took my hysterical call to the colleagues on the ground to the helicopter crew and the colleague who kept me informed on the phone. We really cannot put into words. Thank you. Mr & Mrs Donachie, Wigan
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I have the pleasure to write to commend the professionalism and diligence of PC Toni Moreno of the NPU Crime Team based at the Manchester Town Hall Extension Building. Unfortunately, due to my own carelessness, I left a Rolex wristwatch (valued at about £7,000) in a room safe at the Radisson Edwardian Hotel when I checked out of there early in February last. I am particularly grateful to PC
“Your parents must be very proud of you doing such an important but very much needed difficult job.” Moreno for his dedication to tracking down the watch, as the watch is of particular sentimental value to me; it was a present to myself when I left the Royal Hong Kong Police in 1983 and so, to me, is irreplaceable. I would be obliged if you would pass my thanks to him formally. Mr Williams
I would like to say what an excellent job your officers did on Thursday 19 March regarding an RTA involving a young girl. The response was excellent and the way the officers spoke to the child, workers and parents was compassionate, professional and caring both child and mother felt well looked after and the ordeal a lot easier. Please pass on my appreciation. Ms Igbon, South Manchester I attended Wigan County Court with an application for possession against an offender from Norley Hall Avenue, Wigan. During the case the judge commented on how well the witness statements had been presented and the care and consideration given to the matter by WALH. I would like to thank GMP, in particular PC Di Angelo DiSalvo for attending court and giving witness evidence and PCSO Emma Gater for her assistance in this case. J Grundy, Wigan and Leigh Homes
Thank you for your comforting heartfelt work of support and just for being there for myself and my family. You brought the comfort and compassion we all needed, during the most difficult and traumatic time in our lives. Our lives fell apart on New Year’s Eve, you were there to listen to our grief, you helped us talk about the loss of S and, as you said, things will never be the same but you have helped enormously with our recovery. Your parents must be very proud of you doing such an important but very much needed difficult job. Please make your superiors aware of how much your visits were appreciated by the entire family and how you have helped us to move forward with our lives. Thank you so much Adele (DC Adele Coulter). Anonymous, Stockport
PCSOs Dominique Grimes and Dave Wild went above and beyond to help a young victim of burglary. In late 2014, the Murray family in Middleton were subjected to a burglary at their home, where their car was also stolen. A short time later, their other car was broken into that contained a birthday present for their son Thomas, aged 9. Thomas was left extremely distressed by these crimes. Officers invited him to Middleton Police Station to offer reassurance and comfort. He spent the day meeting the various shifts, playing in police cars, being shown round the cells and trying on public order gear. Dominique and Dave (pictured right
with Thomas) then contacted Embrace; a charity which aims to help children affected by crime or who have been victims themselves and they organised four tickets for a day out at Alton Towers theme park. Thomas' mother, Tracey Murray, said the after care had made a huge difference to her son's state of mind and he could now sleep at night. Click here for more information about Embrace.
GMP Life
Thomas’ grand day out
What’s On? May 2‐14 Days out with Thomas
May 4 9‐10 May
Bank Holiday Monday
East Lancs Railway, Bury
Great City Games Deansgate
10 May Morrisons Great Manchester Run
May 17 June 5 Send your caption suggestions to Brief@gmp.police.uk by June 3.
Courteeners
Manchester United v Arsenal Old Trafford
Heaton Park
May 25 Bank Holiday Monday
June 6‐7 Parklife Music Festival, Heaton Park
June 14 Manchester Day
Caption Competition
Last edition’s winner: “This is GMP’s new traffic department” DC Damien Mclaughlin
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June 23 England vs. New Zealand NatWest IT20, Old Trafford
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How to Advertise in Brief: Please fill in the Electronic version of the Advertisement Coupon here: www.gmp.police.uk/briefads | All terms and conditions in relation to Adverts are also listed there. Deadline: Wednesday 3 June
Police Car UK celebrates 10 years of preserving police transport
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With 150 members and 60 preserved police cars, Police Car UK is available for a range of different community based events. They are already booked to attend the Cheshire Police HQ Open Day and Trafford Centre 999 Day, so if you have a community based event coming up why not give Geoff Taylor a call on 07970 931509. Pictured: Two MK 2 Jaguar police cars escorting the new Jaguar XE into Earls Court, London during its' global launch September 2014.
A book has been penned about the life of a former GMP Chief Inspector. Jack Wilson, who is now 91, retired from the Force in 1977. His fascinating career began serving in the Royal Navy during WWII, followed by working up through the ranks to Chief Inspector for Heywood in the 60s and 70s. The autobiography, simply entitled Jack, has been written from the heart by his daughter-in-law Anne Booth. As well has finding out about the dangers he faced during the war, the stories from his time in policing offer a unique insight into the how times have changed for officers since GMP's early days. A launch event was held in March to which officers who have served at Heywood were invited. Fittingly, the launch was held at TOPS (The Old Police Station) business centre which is the actual station that Jack used to be based. Over 200 people attended to show their support. Proceeds from the book will go towards Cancer Research UK. 'Jack' by Anne Booth is available to purchase from Amazon.
Cadets inspire local businessman THE GMP cadet scheme has inspired a top businessman to organise black-tie fundraising event to help ensure its continuation. Paul King, Regional Director of The Shield Group learned about the excellent work taking place and was deeply moved by the enthusiasm and commitment of officers, police staff and cadets who all give their time as volunteers. Paul arranged a black tie Gala Dinner at the Imperial War Museum in Salford and invited many local business people and a number of celebrities including Tony Morris from Granada Reports. The event was a great success and more than £21,000
Charities
All about Jack
Pictured left to right: Paul King, Sir Peter Fahy and a group of GMP cadets
was raised. A truly terrific sum of money which will go a long way to securing the continuation and development of the cadet scheme as a whole in GMP.
To thank Paul and his team at the Shield Group for all their efforts, he was presented with an engraved plaque by Sir Peter Fahy.
Egg hunting in Moss Side OFFICERS and staff from Moss Side joined forces with local residents for the Nubian Times’ annual ‘Hands on Hare Easter Egg Hunt’ at Alexandra Park. The Neighbourhood Policing Team, Moss Side Police Cadets and Special Constables help
organised hop scotch, skipping, football, face painting, bowling and assisting the youngsters with the Easter Egg Hunt led by Cadet Leader PC Joe Warburton. Constable Cub and PCSO Steve were also a big hit on the day as well as Special Constables
Gemma Jackson and Ola Ajani and PCSOs Ashley Griffin and Gul Usman from the Moss Side NPT. The Operation Peel team also helped to plan and organise the day.
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GMP Life
Toilet patrols and mixing with men: Policing Nellie‐style Dennis Wood (pictured left) is a retired police officer who served between 1950 and 1975. He took time to share some of his memories of the role of women in policing during his time as a serving officer. Read part two in the next issue of Brief.
PC H Snape, died 1/4/15, age 83 Mr C W Bintliff, died 22/3/2015, age 88
DURING my police service, policewomen were a self-contained unit and not part of territorial divisions. As a general rule they were not able to carry out duties during the night or undertake beat work. Instead they were confined to other tasks, such as the interviewing of women and children where there were complaints of indecency. The Police Women's Department was commanded by Supt Nellie Bohanna, a short stoutly built formidable lady, whose simple rules for the girls was ‘always do as you are told and don't get too close to the men’. The latter was a rule that she strictly adhered to throughout her life. From time to time the rule for
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Obituaries
policewomen not to be out after dark would be set aside as they were required to visit the various sites of ladies public toilets. This was to clear out unwanted visitors of prostitutes entertaining their customers. Policewoman Barbara Jones enjoyed those duties as it gave her a chance for a welcome break, together with ‘avoiding the stultifying rule of Nellie’. She told me that during one such toilet patrol, policewoman Barbara Borthwick was on board the van and just as they were about to return to Bootle Street Station at the end of the shift, a broadcast came over the radio that a five ton lorry was being pursued by police in Derbyshire but contact had been lost. The drivers of the Cheshire and Derbyshire crews of course had no idea where they were. Barbara, who up to that stage had been sitting quietly, asked to take over the radio. She explained that she had been brought up in the area in which the rogue lorry was hurtling
about and that she knew where the lorry was. The radio was handed over to her. They set up a road block on the strength of Barbara's predictions, and the vehicle with the driver and accomplices, were detained. Later the Cheshire police asked who the policeman with the squeaky voice had been who so expertly guided them around in an area unknown to them, All those involved in the chase registered surprise as they had never known policewomen were employed in such complicated matters. At first Nellie was furious that one of her girls had been allowed to take part in such a venture. However, after a number of influential congratulatory telephone calls, she allowed herself to bask in the glory of it all. It was one of the early signs of a wind of change, though at the time, if you were to predict that female police officers would be hurtling about in fast police vehicles, I think you would have been laughed out of court.
PC G Ryder, died 22/3/2015, age 78 Insp J M Walsh, died 22/3/2015, age 67 PC G Bellamy, died 25/2/1923,age 92 PC S P Ramage, died 12/3/2015, age 55 PC J Walmsley, died 12/3/2015, age 75 PC G H Smith, died 11/3/2015, age 77 Supt MR J Simpson, died 04/3/2015, age 84 PC P B Duckworth, died 25/2/2015, age 77 PC F Bratby, died 21/2/2015, age 91 CI G W Bethell, died 13/2/2015, age 83 PC D Moses, died 12/2/2015, age 55 Supt D B Orgill, died 07/2/2015, age 81 PC W L Smith, died 06/2/2015, age 75 PC N R Barrie, died 04/2/2015, age 58 PC S T Smith, died 03/2/2015, age 78 PC E Dyer, died 25/1/2015, age 80 PC T J Fitzgerald, died 23/1/2015, age 58 PC D A Latham, died 23/1/2015, age 75 PC C E Watson, died 23/1/2015, age 60 Insp C Morris, died 22/1/2015, age 86 Supt W E Havers, died 17/1/2015,age 69 PC A Ridings, died 15/1/2015, age 77 PC S M Janaway, died 14/1/2015, age 42 PC R Peers, died 13/1/2015, age 69 PC E Lomas, died 03/1/2015, age 87 Insp D K Murphy, died 01/1/2015, age 55
and remember travelling back from Ryton to Warrington every other Tuesday evening to train because I really wanted to play at the top level.” Joining the police was one of Kat’s dreams, but combined with playing netball it wasn’t easy. “Once I started working shifts I found it hard to commit to training, however I was able to play for the police team for a number of years. “It was during one of these games that I was spotted by an umpire and invited to go to Manchester's Northern Thunder Super League team training session for a mini trial. PLAYING netball for England is a “This time the manager said he dream that has come true for PC Kat could see I had the skill but my McGovern (pictured above left), who fitness needed improving and to has playing the sport for more than come back at trials the following 20 years. year. That didn’t happen as I got “I got into netball at primary married and had a baby.” school but my family travelled Recently, Kat has had the chance overseas a lot so I never really to train again. settled into one team. In the early “Having been given an 90s we moved to Warrington and I opportunity again is one I could not was finally able to start playing for ignore and could be my last attempt the school netball team. at actually playing for my country.” “However I went to college and Trials were then announced for then university, and it was only in an England NETS* squad to go to 2004 that I took part in the Cheshire the World Indoor Netball country trials and got in at the age of Championships in Brisbane this year. 24. That same year I joined GMP Kat added: “My coach spoke to me
as my fitness and game has improved and so I went to the trials and it must have worked as I now find myself in the position of being selected to play for my country. “When I first saw the text on my phone from the England coach saying ‘check your emails,’ I was thinking that I hadn’t made it, but when I saw the top line ‘Congratulations you have been selected’ I couldn’t believe it. “In total I have 12 mandatory training sessions to go to in London and Bristol and need to raise a massive £3,000 to get me to the competition. “So even after several failed attempts at netball trials, work, family life taking priority, injuries, I never truly gave up and likewise I am far from giving up on the challenges that face me on the way to Brisbane!” If you would like to donate and follow Kat’s progress visit www.gofundme.com/q8bwjc
Counting the kilometres A group of officers and staff from the Public Protection Division (PPD) are running the Manchester 10k next month to raise money for Count the Kicks. The team of 25 will be running to raise money for Count the Kicks, a charity that empowers parents to have knowledge and confidence throughout their pregnancy. Lucy Nicholas from the PPD told Brief that the charity also supports families who have experienced stillbirth and neonatal loss. They are running the Manchester 10k on Sunday 10 May for colleague Gemma Daffern and her husband Gary in memory of Charlotte Rose, who was born at 40 weeks and four days asleep. To support the team visit www.justgiving.com/pacesettersmanchester or text – PACE83 followed by a space followed by the amount (£1, £2, £3, £4, £5 and £10) to 70070.
Sport
Kat shoots, scores and earns an England call‐up
*NETS team is a version of traditional netball played as a six-a-side or seven-aside. The main difference is that the court is surrounded by high tension nets and the ball never goes out of play.
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MAKE MUSIC: Sunday 21 June is ‘Make Music’ day and in advance of this celebration, Brief highlights the wonderful sound of our very own GMP Band. As well as playing at ceremonial events the GMP Band also supports local charity events. If you would like to find out more about how you can book the GMP Band or one of the smaller groups please contact Barry Frost on 07500 033247 or Band Conductor Jonathan Taylor on 07709 287852. The next issue of Brief is out in June too!