Superhero Day GMP officers and staff supporting the Cash for Kids charity
The truth about sextortion
Operation Hydrant
Modern Slavery
The growing trend in cybercrime
Dealing with high-profile child sex cases
Investigating human-trafficking
Columns
Responding to the changing face of crime The face of crime is changing and we know more and more activity is taking place online and out of sight. Cybercrime is a big threat for the Force particularly with a significant amount of fraud now taking place online. We have to be able to keep ahead of the online criminals and having the right equipment and training is vital. It is why the roll out of smartphones and tablets is an important step forward. There are good results
coming back from the initial rollout in Salford and in the coming months this technology will be available across the Force. People can make themselves incredibly vulnerable online and that includes us all. There is a lot we can do to protect ourselves and to encourage others to make sure they are putting preventative measures in place. Recent training has been well received and colleagues from the Force Intelligence Branch are looking to do more sessions. Being able to respond to the changing face of crime is why we have developed the target operating model for the Force. Improving our use of
technology is a key part of how we need to transform policing. There is a substantial amount of change that continues to take place and I know this can be unsettling for people. We have received the feedback from the staff engagement survey which will help us to ensure there is the right support in place so that we can make the changes we need to for the future. More details about the results and the actions from the survey will be circulated in the coming weeks.
Ian Hopkins, Chief Constable, QPM
Backing our communities Keeping people safe is everyone’s business. By investing in local communities we can give everyone an opportunity to help make their neighbourhoods stronger and safer. This is why I launched my community chest – a grant scheme that will see over £900,000 go towards more than 100 local projects across Greater Manchester, each designed to build resilient communities and help reduce demand on policing so GMP can focus its resources where they are needed most.
One such project is a volunteer-run helpdesk at Bolton magistrates’ court that provides advice and guidance to people passing through the criminal justice system, helping them turn their lives around. Empower works with disabled people, helping them to recognise and report hate crime. Women’s Housing Action Group (WHAG) helps support women escaping domestic violence and abuse. Across Greater Manchester we’re supporting youth services that help to raise the aspirations of young people, empowering them to challenge negative behaviour and develop their life skills. We’re also helping schools engage with young people around extremism and radicalisation. Through PACE we’re supporting Rochdale
families affected by child sexual exploitation, enabling parents and carers to counter the influence of abusers over their child. And in Tameside, Time2Talk provides counselling services for children and young people who have been victims of sexual abuse, helping them cope and recover from what has happened. The creativity and passion people have for their local areas shines brighter than ever. Even in the face of funding uncertainties and high demand on their services, people are still determined to make a difference and I am determined to help them. For a full list of projects we’re supporting, go to gmpcc.org.uk/funding
Tony Lloyd, Police & Crime Commissioner
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4 Around the World Merging North and South Manchester
5 News in Brief Investigating crime & safeguarding victims
6&7 Force round up 8 What’s trending? 9 Force survey—what we’ve learned 10 Dishonour the Crime
11 A ‘Sterling’ ambassador, Salford schools stand up to organised crime
Spotlight
Ch Insp Danny Inglis on the growing trend in cyber crime, page 12
12 The truth about sextortion 13 The people behind Professional 19 Light up the Lakes & Boggartise Standards
Manchester
14 Under the surface of slavery
20 What’s on & caption
15 Joining forces to tackle historic
competition
child abuse
21 I will if you will—getting fit in
16 Support for Super Hero Day
Bury
22 Cops v Council in charity
Testing our response to terrorism
GMP Life 17 Adverts & Obituaries
football match & Officers lift the
Members of the public thank officers and Superhero Day, page 16
staff for their work
With thanks to the following people for their contribution to this issue:
Chief Inspector Danny Inglis
Hannah Flint, Modern Slavery Network Coordinator
PC Mark Humphrys
Sgt Kal Bhatti
Zöe Green
Be published in Brief Editorial team: Melissa Mead, Alison Etherden Krystyna Rudzki Photographers: Chris Oldham and Bill Morris 0161 856 2777 | Picture Desk: Lisa Marks 0161 856 2279
weight of the Titanic
Designed and produced by: Corporate Communications, Force Headquarters, Central Park, M40 5BP
23 Memorial rugby match
Contact numbers: 0161 85 65939 / 2238 / 5938 Email: Brief@gmp.police.uk
Going fishing
18 Letters of Appreciation
Contents
News
Brief online: www.gmp.police.uk/Brief
Articles and contributions for the next edition of Brief should be submitted by
19 August 2016 3
News
Around the world Florida CHRISTIAN Radecki was captured on camera, dancing on top of a police car outside the officer’s home in Florida. His excuse was that he was warning children about vampires. Radecki drove his car up to the police car with his radio blasting out, then climbed onto the roof of the police car and started dancing. Once Christian was bored of dancing, he moved to the bonnet of the police vehicle and ripped the windscreen wipers backwards breaking one of the lever arms in the process. When arrested, Radecki said he went to the police officer’s house because “when he opened his own front door, a woman with fangs was threatening him, and that a human sacrifice was about to occur involving vampires.” Investigators added that Radecki claimed he “made the conscious decision to get the Sheriff of Nottingham to help him stop the slaughter of small children.” Radecki was originally released on $2250 bond but was arrested on another charge later that month. He is now in Lee County jail awaiting trial.
North Yorkshire AN injured owl in North Yorkshire found an unlikely friend in traffic officer Rob Roberts. Rob was on patrol at around 1am when he noticed the bird sitting in a nearby tree; the owl went to fly away but unfortunately collided with a tree injuring its wing and leg. Luckily, the officer saw what happened and came to the rescue. After retrieving the injured bird Rob opened the boot and put the owl in the best place he could think of – his police hat. The bird was taken back to Harrogate police station where he was later picked up by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). TC Roberts said: "Unfortunately we didn't have time to name it, but we did have time to make a bed for it in a cardboard box and leave it on the Sergeant's desk."
The injured bird in a police hat
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City of Manchester AS part of the local policing review, the North Manchester (A) and South Manchester (E) divisions have combined its locations, structures and processes to create a single City of Manchester team. Launched on 23 May along with the Local Policing Review restructure, the City of Manchester is now structured into three main clusters; North, Central and South, which are aligned with local authority service provision including safeguarding and early help as well as neighbourhood services. This alignment with public service partners provides a more consistent and stronger emphasis on collaborative local problem solving, as well as ensuring that resources are better aligned to the place. The City of Manchester team will primarily operate from three GMP sites; Central Park, Longsight and Elizabeth Slinger Road with Neighbourhood Beat
Officers (NBOs) and PCSOs also deployed from Harpurhey, Gorton, Greenheys and Wythenshawe police stations as well as the Town Hall. The SLT structure for City of Manchester, led by Ch Supt Wasim Chaudhry, has been revised to provide place based command and control. ACC Garry Shewan said: “The new structure means that our officers and staff will be able to work more closely with our partners to problem solve at a local level. “It fits with the aims of the Target Operating Model as we move towards place-based working as a Force.” Whilst this has been a significant change for officers and staff who work for the City of Manchester team there will be little impact for colleagues Forcewide or the communities we serve. For more information please visit the Force intranet.
AN award was presented in Rochdale to a member of the public who has selflessly given up her time to support officer training.
Mander, Consultant Gynaecologist & Obstetrician, who gave advice covering menopause symptoms, treatment and advice. Whilst the majority of attendees were women, the event was also useful for line managers who wished to increase their awareness so they could better support their staff. Due to the event’s popularity, a second conference is being planned for Wednesday 20 July.
GMP has joined a number of public services, charities and leaders in signing up to the Homelessness Charlene Keeble (pictured above) Charter in a united front to tackle the featured in a video sharing her own problem of homelessness in the city. experiences of going missing and Led by local charity Mustard Tree, subsequently dealing with police which the Homelessness Charter has been has recently been used to help refresh developed by groups working officer knowledge around Safe and alongside people affected by Well checks (SWCs). The training has homelessness, with their voices at its led to a direct improvement in the core. It outlines the principles that standard of SWCs in Rochdale, establish how people experiencing enabling GMP to build up more homelessness should be treated and intelligence around vulnerable young how the city intends to deal with the people. problem. GMP has pledged to play an active role in this partnership and is supporting the Charter by ensuring OFFICERS and staff were invited to training for neighbourhood officers a menopause awareness conference involves people who have on Wednesday 27 April. The event experience of homelessness. featured guest speaker Tony
A REVIEW into how we investigate crimes and how we safeguard victims under the new Target Operating Model (TOM) has now started. In line with the TOM it will consider the capabilities that are required at:
Force level - Specialist investigative capability dealing with the most serious and complex crimes Borough level - Specialist and safeguarding capability for high volume serious crimes
Place level - Volume crime investigation and safeguarding. The review will initially examine demand that exists for the Serious Crime Division, Public Protection Division and Divisional Detectives, to map out where different types of investigation and safeguarding are being managed. It will then look at how best we can service that demand to ensure we can provide support to the vulnerable in our communities. Detective Chief Superintendent Vanessa Jardine who is leading the review said: “We know there is a huge amount of demand across the Force that detectives deal with on a daily basis.
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Investigating crime, safeguarding victims “The aim of the review is to understand this demand and in doing so we will be in a much better position to establish where the best place for investigations is. “The review will look at what should be managed centrally but also how we assess and allocate crime based on threat, harm, risk, vulnerability and solvability.
Getting involved Vanessa continued: “We know our officers and staff will have lots of ideas about how we do this so if you do have any suggestions or want to get involved please get in touch. “Following the initial phase of mapping out the demand there will be a number of workshops where officers and staff can contribute to the options that will ultimately be taken to chief officers for agreement.” The review team will be visiting teams over the next few months. It is anticipated that a number of workshops will be set up in September onwards. If you are interested in attending one of the workshops please contact Sara Payne on x65088.
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Force News
Tameside
Bury On 18 May Fidel Johnson and Tyrone Alder were sentenced to seven and eight years respectively for the kidnap and assault of a 17year-old boy who was stripped to his underwear and assaulted in September last year. The investigation was complicated by further attempts to intimidate the victim and threaten his family. The team worked painstakingly to support the victim and his family up to and throughout the trial. It was an excellent result and case build by DI Hunt, DS Barker, DC Looby, DC Haldane.
Tameside PCSO Gary Etchells has been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours as the monarch marks her 90th year. Gary will receive an MBE for his services to the Greater Manchester community. In 2006 Gary was stabbed in the neck by an angry tenant whilst assisting a housing association carry out an eviction notice. Since then he has received numerous accolades including a bravery award for saving a man from drowning in a Tameside river.
Wigan
Stockport
On 6 June at Wigan there was a vintage catering van providing a free breakfast or lunch for divisional staff and officers from 6am. Staff also had the chance to win a Fitbit as part of the Police Mutual ‘Be fit for life’ campaign. As part of Wigan’s long term commitment to staff wellbeing, the ‘Be fit for life’ campaign is also providing a series of free health screenings with a nurse over the coming weeks and a series of financial workshops covering; understanding your pension, managing and dealing with debt, budgeting and planning and savings.
In May, Stockport officers delivered a ‘Safe 4 Summer’ presentation to year five and six pupils at St Bernadette’s School in Brinnington. The presentation highlights some of the dangers warmer weather can bring and how to stay safe.
City of Manchester Officers from the City of Manchester South cluster INPT were investigating a report of burglary in Fallowfield when they received some intelligence in relation to use of the stolen property. The team obtained a warrant and briefed the neighbourhood beat officer (NBO) team for the area. They quickly
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put together a team including neighbourhood police (NPO) and beat officers (NBO) to execute the warrant. The following day officers from both teams executed the warrant and recovered items relating to the property. They also discovered a cannabis farm.
A man was arrested on suspicion of burglary and cultivation of cannabis and is currently on bail. The good team work and communication allowed for the prompt execution of the warrant and arrest of the suspect .
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Force Round Up
Salford On Tuesday 31 May, the team at Salford held a fitness class at Fit City Pendlebury to continue their fundraising efforts for St Anne’s Hospice. The class went well with Helen, the instructor, receiving great feedback. All together £245 was raised from the evening which will now be added to the divisions rising total. Following on from the success, another charity fitness class may be organised in October.
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Force Round Up
On 6 June 2015 a violent disorder took place at Sale Water Park involving a group of approximately 40 teenage youths. The incident, which was captured on CCTV, resulted in several of the youths seriously assaulting an individual using a golf club as a weapon. A number of offenders belonging to a group calling themselves “The South Manni Mafia” were identified. Police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) working in partnership with Trafford Borough Council’s Anti Social Behaviour team, Trafford Housing Trust, Youth Offending Service and local schools identified several of the offenders and obtained Civil Injunctions to try and moderate their behaviour. The group continued their criminal offending and were involved in further violent incidents. Of the group, 11 offenders were identified and arrested before appearing at Trafford Magistrates Court on 4 May 2016. The above results have been achieved through the successful joint work of the Trafford Borough Council ASB team and the Trafford Division.
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Rochdale Rochdale officers and staff were invited to hear Kevin Sinfield MBE speak following other external speakers from the local community on the subject of Leadership. This has been part of an ongoing process of upskilling and professionalising officers at the division. Kevin, a former professional English rugby league player who captained
Force News
Trafford
Oldham
Leeds Rhinos in the Super League, spent the best part of 90 minutes sharing his knowledge and expertise following his record breaking career. He held a captive audience and discussed Team Dynamics and how he has worked to form winning teams at a national and international level as part of a high profile sports career.
PC John Stafford received Oldham’s customer service award for the support he delivered to a community association. The Alt Tenant and Residents Association is funded by donations to support the local estate. Unfortunately one volunteer stole a large amount of money that would leave the club without money to purchase much needed items. PC Stafford contacted local businesses such as Tesco, Asda, Costco and Sainsbury’s to see if they could possibly donate any items to support the group. So far he has received food items which he has collected and delivered to the association.
Kevin Sinfield (centre) with some of the attendees
Bolton Shoppers, activists and public service officials came together to create a human rainbow to celebrate sexual and gender diversity in Bolton. The event was held in Victoria Square as part of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHO) and was
organised by police, Bolton Council and Bolton Pride. Mark Geary, coorganiser of Bolton Pride, said: “This time last year we stood with probably 10 people, which we had orchestrated, and this year we have 50. It proves we have a voice and a platform and that we are getting our message across.”
Bolton celebrates sexual and gender diversity
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What’s Trending? What’s Trending?
#ThinkHorseThink15
A serious road collision involving police horse Steele prompted a new horse road safety campaign. Together with the British Horse Society, GMP has been urging drivers to slow down around horses. The launch event for BHS’s Dead Slow campaign was held in central Manchester on May 28. @DianneOxberry @gmpolice great idea to inform drivers. Horses aren’t machines and need us to take care @bob_bobbi @gmpolice I did just this speed other day as seen ur advert on here. It’s great u teaching us this. Very imformative gmp #thinkhorsethink15 @gmpolice @gmptraffic great advice! So important that the horse has high viz too not just rider in case of a fall in poor visibility
Twitter thank yous @befanny Big up to @gmpolice for attending the car accident outside of our house so quickly. Lovely and professional. Couldn’t have asked for more @PeteOsment I can’t thank @GMPCityCentre and GMP as whole for helping recover my stolen bike. They were amazing and my bike is back with me! #TopJob @The RocketCrosto The more and more I watch #theforcemanchester the more it opens my eyes to what on @gmpolice great insight into what goes on!
#NoneForTheRoad Dramatic footage of the moment a 79year-old drink driver ploughs through a shop window into a young child had a big impact on Facebook. The incident took place on 29 May 2016 at Landside Wine Stores on Chestnut Drive South in Leigh. The terrifying footage shows a six-year-old boy picking some sweets when, seconds later, a car smashes through the front window into the child. The driver then tries to reverse, causing more of the shop to collapse on top of the car. Miraculously the young boy escaped with only cuts and bruises. The driver was disqualified from driving for three years, given a 50 hours community order and ordered to pay costs of £170. In 22 hours, the post had reached nearly 300,000 people on the main Facebook page, with thousands more viewing on the Wigan Facebook pages.
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A holiday maker returned from their holiday for 11 days to find a cat inside their car at T1 which didn't look well at all. It had been in the car for the full 11 days without food or water. Staff took her to Woodcroft Vets in Cheadle and other than dehydration she was remarkably in good health. She was fortunately electronically tagged and staff were able to speak to the owner in Chorley after she was traced. The owner had reported her cat lost and was understandably very emotional and thankful she had been found. It appears she sneaked into the car when the holiday makers, also from Chorley, were loading their car. Willow is doing very well and was eating and drinking at the surgery later.
129,860 people reached | 4, 453 reactions, comments & shares
STEVE Retford, a Tier 5 interview advisor in the Serious Crime Division, has been awarded a Chief Constable’s Commendation from Cheshire Constabulary for his support in a human trafficking investigation. Operation Maitland was a complex investigation into the trafficking of women into the UK for the purpose of sexual exploitation. Steve provided Tier 5 interview support to the investigation which saw eight women rescued from prostitution and two offenders arrested and charged with in excess of 40 offences
relating to human trafficking, prostitution and money laundering. The defendants were sentenced to 3.5 years imprisonment and 18 months community order. One defendant was also served with an indefinite Control Order, the first ever issued in the UK. The NCA centre of excellence for Human Trafficking (UKHTC) called the investigation ‘a shining example of how to deal with a trafficking for sexual exploitation investigation’ and has now adopted it into their national training package.
ACADEMICS from Durham University paid a visit to GMP in May to share the findings of the Force Staff Engagement Survey. Around 100 people from across the organisation were given a breakdown of the key findings from Dr Les Graham, which will be available Forcewide shortly. Over 33 per cent of GMP colleagues completed the survey throughout March and April. It has been designed by Durham University academics specifically for policing and it is being used by many police forces across the UK. The initial results show some promising feedback from officers and staff, including: • We have a high motivation to serve the public and make HOLMES Coordinator in the Serious an impact on society Crime Division have all received • We are good at going the extra mile for the public honours with Gary and John receiving • Most are confident to speak up MBEs for services to the Greater with new ideas and raise concerns Manchester community and the police • As a whole we feel aligned to the and the Chief Constable being awarded Code of Ethics values. the Queen’s Police Medal (QPM) for distinguished service. to receive an MBE and I’m so shocked PCSO Etchells, 57 from Hollingworth, and John Baron, 68 from that I’ve been chosen, especially during such a special year for her majesty. It’s Ashton-under-Lyne will become Members of the Most Excellent Order of not really sunk in and I’ve had to keep it a secret from my family so no one the British Empire at a ceremony at knows yet!” Buckingham Palace later this year having received their letters in April. John Baron said: “To receive such Gary said: “I am absolutely honoured an honour for having done a job that I
The royal seal of approval PCSO Gary Etchells is one of three GMP members to be recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours
THREE people from Greater Manchester Police have been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in June as the monarch marked her 90th year. Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, PCSO Gary Etchells and John Baron,
Force survey: what we’ve learned
News
Steve’s a shining example
Some of the areas that can be improved are: • Many feel that decisions made by senior leaders and the organisation are not made fairly • A high proportion does not feel well supported by the organisation. The next steps for GMP will be to assess the work that is already taking place as part of the Target Operating Model and use the results to make sure that we are focused on the areas that require development. Throughout July, the Behaviour Change Team will be speaking to people across divisions and branches to better understand the feedback. The outcomes of the survey will also be compared with other police forces to share best practise at a national level.
“We have a high motivation to serve the public”
Stay posted for more updates via the Force Intranet and GMP communicator network. have thoroughly enjoyed and have pride in is just amazing.” Chief Constable Hopkins has worked in GMP for eight years having previously worked in three different police forces during his 27 year policing career.
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News 10
Testing our response to terrorism IN May, officers and staff from GMP took part in one of the largest and most ambitious counter terrorism training exercises ever undertaken in the country. Codenamed Exercise Winchester Accord, thousands of people from both regional and national agencies took part in the simulated terror attack, designed to test the response to scenarios based on recent terrorist atrocities. The simulated terror attack started at intu Trafford Centre on Monday 9 May 2016, where more than 800 volunteers played the parts of shoppers to make the exercise as realistic as possible. The scenarios were based on the Kenyan Westgate Shopping Centre attack in 2013, followed by a manhunt as occurred in Paris last year and finally with a Bataclan-style siege. It concluded with armed officers descending on Redbank Community Home in Newton-le-Willows in a dramatic end to the three-day exercise. Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “This was a huge undertaking involving thousands of people over three days and put all agencies under pressure to test our responses. “Recent events in Paris, Brussels and around the world have shown us that the response from agencies has to be robust if we are to save lives. I want
to ensure we are ready to protect the people of Greater Manchester and the UK if the unthinkable was to happen. “The three days were really challenging for all agencies that took part and things have gone well but have also shown where improvements can be made. Testing ourselves in controlled circumstances means we can all be ready if we have to face a terrorist attack. “I want to thank all the GMP employees, individuals from all agencies who took part, and the people of Greater Manchester. It is important that we all remain vigilant but also that we stand together to combat terrorism.”
Firearms officers taking part in the counter terrorism training exercise
Dishonour the crime SURVIVORS of honour based government’s Forced Marriage Unit abuse told their stories and specialists and survivors of honour based abuse talked about the work that is being and forced marriage. done to help victims in Greater The roadshows are the latest in Manchester in a special event at Hough Karma Nirvana and GMP’s work to End on Tuesday 17 May. raise awareness of honour based GMP and Karma Nirvana, a charity abuse within the Greater Manchester that supports victims and survivors of community. These practices can honour based abuse, invited the include forced marriage as well as community to come and hear the dowry abuse, child marriage and stories but also encouraged female genital mutilation (FGM). They professionals in the area to attend to cut across all cultures, nationalities, help them deal with cases of honour faith groups and communities and based abuse in the most effective way transcend national and international possible. boundaries. Detective Chief Inspector Nicky For more information and guidance Porter said: “All forms of honour based about honour based abuse, please abuse are abhorrent crimes that will click here. absolutely not be tolerated in Greater Manchester. “By bringing everyone together we show our continued commitment to raising awareness of this type of abuse and seek to educate all communities on the support services that are available.” Jasvinder Sanghera CBE, CEO of Karma Nirvana, (L-R) Jasvinder Sanghera, CBE, CEO of Karma Nirvana, Janet Guest MBE - Manchester Adult Burns Service, UHSM and DCI Nicky Porter spoke alongside the
MANCHESTER City footballer Raheem Sterling has been appointed as an ambassador for the Greater Manchester High Sheriff’s Police Trust. The 21-year-old, who signed for Manchester City in 2015, has joined the Trust to work more closely with the community in which he spends so much of his time. Through his role as an ambassador, Raheem will attend some of the projects to see how they are helping to reduce crime and improve communities. He’ll also help to promote and raise awareness of the work being done by the charity. Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “We’re delighted to welcome Raheem to our team and look forward to working alongside him to make communities of Greater Manchester safer. “I’m really proud of the work being
done by Greater Manchester High Sheriff’s Police Trust to reduce crime and make people feel safer and would like to thank Raheem for taking time out of his busy schedule to do something that’ll benefit so many of our residents.” Raheem Sterling said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to make a valuable contribution to the local community. The Greater Manchester High Sheriff’s Police Trust does some outstanding work in helping local people and local projects to fulfil their potential. I am delighted to be able to play my part in supporting and promoting their efforts. “Whether it be through engagement, education or social cohesion, the trust plays an integral role in reducing
crime and bringing the local community together. I am proud to have been offered the chance to represent the Trust and to assist them in achieving their goals. I hope that this collaboration will have a positive impact on people
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A Sterling ambassador for Sheriff’s Trust
and communities across Greater Manchester.” To find out more about the High Sheriff’s Trust and how it can help you with work that benefits the community, please click here.
(L-R) Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, Raheem Sterling and Glen Lockett, Head of Income Generation at the Greater Manchester High Sheriff’s Police Trust
Salford schools stand up to organised crime
Lieutenant DL JP, Chair of Greater Manchester Crimestoppers Edith Conn, SCHOOL children from across around organised crime and gangs. ideas will be used to help the Superintendent Mark Kenny and others, Salford took a stand against organised community safety partnership shape with Harrop Fold School in Worsley The ‘Stand up for Salford’ crime and gangs with a special theatre programme aims to teach school pupils future prevention work for the younger winning. challenge in May. about organised crime, its dangers and residents of the city. All of the pupils will now take their The Project Gulf initiative saw the the impact that it has on communities. It Since the workshops, around 150 play back to their classmates and family young people spend two months also promotes Fearless, Crimestoppers’ pupils have worked with Rhema Theatre members to spread the message and creating a play to ‘Stand up for Salford’ dedicated youth service. on a weekly basis to create their own Fearless will return to schools to help after taking part in workshops with GMP the next generation say no to organised Pupils have taken part in workshops play. The challenge then saw eight officers, Salford City Council, schools go head to head in front of a criminality. exploring issues such as gun violence Crimestoppers and Rhema Theatre judging panel made up of Vice Lordand drug crime. Their thoughts and
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Spotlight
“It is easy to say that victims have been stupid and only got themselves to blame, but the blackmailers are skilled at what they do.”
The truth about sextortion So what is sextortion? Sextortion is a specific type of online crime, where the victim is befriended in the online world and provided with the details of the victims social media account, typically Facebook. The victim is later tricked into either performing a sex act on a web-cam, or sharing of explicit photos with the offender. The offender then uses the photos or videos to make demands on the victim. Significant pressure is applied by threatening to share the photos or videos with the victim’s friends and family. In the majority of cases the
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motive is for money and the offender may demand payment through a bank transfer, PayPal, Bitcoin or other remote payment method. I actually don’t like this rebranding of a crime type as I think it can lead to it sounding less serious than it actually is. Blackmailing people in this manner is a serious offence and so is the potential impact on the victims. It is easy to say that victims have been stupid and only got themselves to blame, but the blackmailers are skilled at what they do. It is also worth thinking about the way in which people meet and communicate is significantly changing.
Ch Insp Danny Inglis speaks to Brief about a growing trend in cybercrime There are a number of studies into the way people are now online more than ever and frequently meet their significant other in the virtual world. It is therefore not surprising that victims come from every walk of life, including our staff. I think the case of Daniel Perry illustrates the impact on people’s lives; he was a 17-year-old from Scotland, who fell from the Forth Road bridge in Scotland after being targeted by the offenders. At the end of 2015 there are four known cases where people have taken their own lives, but I would question how many deaths there may have been nationally where such blackmails may have played a part, but nobody knew. This is difficult to answer, but the evidence shows that such offences are under reported and we
know there can be difficulties Ch Insp Danny Inglis in reporting this type of offence, as organisationally we do not always recognise the offence for what it is and accurately record it. Who is doing this? Nationally we have seen offenders in the UK carrying out such blackmails, but as in the case of Daniel Perry, a large number of the offenders operate outside of the UK by Organised Crime Groups (OCGs). Research by the NCA suggests the main OCGs are based in Philippines, The Ivory Coast and Morocco. Clearly this frustrates our efforts in tracing who is behind the internet address and subsequently bringing them to justice, so whilst we do pursue offenders our focus has really got to be on prevention and education. It is vital that we understand the threat from this type of blackmail and that we respond by accurately recording offences and reassuring victims that it will be taken seriously. For further guidance on protecting yourself online click here.
DC Darren Hall What’s your background? I’ve worked in PSB for six years now and I’ve been at GMP for more than 18 years. My current role is as an Assistant Investigating Officer.
who was high on alcohol and drugs was flagged as a concern for welfare and police attended accordingly. The man became violent and abusive towards the officers and in the end multiple patrols and medical staff were involved with restraining and sedating him. The man made several allegations against the officers involved, including use of excessive force and being falsely arrested. It was my role to conduct an extensive investigation, obtaining witness statements and examining the CCTV footage. I was able to gather sound evidence that exonerated the officers, who in fact had handled the job with utmost professionalism.
If you’d like to learn more about the branch, we are all very approachable and I would welcome anyone to pop in and meet us or give us a call on x62910 if they’d like advice.
Sgt Samantha Lindsay
Tell us a bit about you and your role. Well, I’ve been at GMP What does a typical day involve? for 21 years My role involves investigating now and I’ve complaints received from the customer worked in the service desk within the PSB. These are PSB for nine generated by members of the public or years. What do you think people should internally. As with any police I’m currently investigation, my job is to be completely know about the PSB? on the PSB is now a different world from ten impartial and fair, gathering all the Assessments team. It’s our job to take years ago. Rather than being a punitive available evidence before deciding initial enquiries and complaints and whether the complaint is justified. At any branch it is recognised that learning the decide whether or not they are lessons plays a major part in improving one time I have around 25-30 cases something we can take forward. These the service we deliver. We’ll never be that I am working on. can come via a variety of channels such able to stop people complaining, but the as email, the IPCC, MPs or 101. way we handle those complaints is very What job are you most proud of? important for how we learn and move One job that springs to mind was an forward as an organisation. incident in Piccadilly Gardens. A man So we don’t investigate every
Spotlight
The people behind professional standards
The Code of Ethics aims to embed a common set of values and behaviours across policing nationwide. But who is responsible for ensuring these are met? The Professional Standards Branch (PSB) plays a vital role in investigating complaints and upholding behaviours expected across all staff. Brief spoke to two members of the branch to find out more about their roles… complaint? We have to check the validity of the complaint first. For example, it has to come via a direct witness or victim/ affected person. We often get complaints as a result of something which has been on TV or in the papers which we can’t action. If we can’t investigate something, we always go back to people to explain why. Any other advice for officers and staff? If you are unsure of the guidelines around behaviours or you are facing an ethical dilemma, always think about whether the action you take could potentially damage the reputation of the Force. The behavioural framework is also there to help you understand what is expected of you. If you are under investigation, please be assured that our action is always proportionate to the allegation. We are all human and make mistakes sometimes – often the outcome is simply to give feedback and focus on learning and development.
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Spotlight
Under the surface of slavery With the number of human trafficking crimes in Greater Manchester increasing from just two in 2012 to more than 80 in 2015, it’s clear that awareness of modern slavery is growing. Last year the Modern Slavery Coordination Unit was set up within GMP to support the investigation of these types of offences. Alison Etherden speaks to the Modern Slavery Network Coordinator Hannah Flint. Hannah works for the charity Stop the Traffik and is based within the Modern Slavery Coordination Unit at Nexus House. With a wealth of experience working with victims and charities set up to support victims of modern slavery, Hannah is wellplaced to take on the job. Her role has been set up to look at three main areas; information sharing across different communities, identifying gaps for victim support and raising awareness that modern slavery exists by mobilising organisations in the network to work together. “There still remains a lack of awareness that modern slavery exists”, says Hannah, “Often victims do not say they are a victim. That might be because of fear and lack of trust in the authorities or it might be because they don’t see themselves as a victim in the first place. It’s about recognising the signs and sometimes that may mean piecing together the
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story ourselves. believed or that we can’t protect “It might be someone reports their Hannah Flint is the Modern Slavery Network Coordinator them from passport has been stolen and they retribution from can’t get home, or that they have the traffickers,” Hannah says. "The the case files knowing the victim is been beaten and managed to escape. consequences for speaking out may being looked after, even if they have They may complain they haven't been be very serious for victims if we don't been repatriated to their home paid. An officer might find a controlling get the process right." country.” dynamic or a situation where some people living in a house are well Victim liaison officers (VLOs) and It is a big dark subject which can presented and cared for whereas Tac advisers are currently being sometimes feel overwhelming but another person is not trained across Hannah says it’s about staying “It’s a big dark subject the Force to help optimistic. “Change is possible,” she properly dressed. When things don’t look right, that can sometimes feel officers with their says, “individual lives can be we need to do a bit investigations. transformed and organised criminal overwhelming… it’s more digging and we “Traditionally for networks can be dismantled if we take might find exploitative the police, modern slavery seriously, believe the about staying optimistic” relationships there.” success means person until proven otherwise, work a prosecution, but for the victim it together and take a victim-centred Victims are often already might look quite different,” Hannah approach. Support and resources are vulnerable people and are preyed explains, “they may just want to go available – you’re not on your own.” upon because of their vulnerability, back home and try to move on with while psychological control and a Contact Hannah on x60306 or their life. The Modern Slavery threat of violence either to themselves email hannahe.flint@gmp.police.uk Coordination Unit and the VLOs will or their family makes them too fearful For further support for victims of support that victim through the whole to try and escape – even in cases slavery visit www.gmvictims.org.uk process, leaving investigating officers where they are not physically locked to concentrate on the suspects and in. “They may also think they won’t be
Joining forces to tackle historic child abuse Operation Hydrant; the national response to the surge in people coming forward to disclose having been victims of child abuse Following revelations around the behaviour of Jimmy Savile, the police service nationally saw a surge in adults coming forward to report having been victims of sexual abuse as a child, including allegations against many with public profiles. It quickly became apparent that there was potential for duplication as police forces launched investigations – for example, a teacher may have worked in several establishments in different counties
resulting in two or more forces receiving allegations of abuse from multiple victims. Operation Hydrant acts as a national coordination hub for all investigations of child sexual abuse which took place previous to the last twelve months and involved people with a public profile or within an institutional setting. This includes MPs, celebrities and anyone with a public prominence in their local community, such as locally elected representatives, medical staff, teachers, community group leaders, governors and sports coaches. It also includes those in notifiable occupations such as taxi drivers, medical staff, and teachers. Institutions can range from schools and
efficient way is paramount. It is therefore really important that all officers and staff recognise and understand the remit for an Operation Hydrant case, and share it with me. I will then ensure it is fed into the centre to enable deconfliction and intelligence sharing to take place. If you are not sure if your case meets the remit of an Operation Hydrant investigation, just run it past me and I will be able to advise you. “The police service has been held to account many times for its performance in relation to child sexual abuse. This makes it all the more important that we get it absolutely right now. Everybody has a part to play in this – whether you are a call taker as the first point of contact, a uniform officer picking up a job, or a more senior officer forming a strategy.
Spotlight
care homes, churches, community centres and hospitals to GP surgeries. Operation Hydrant enables GMP and other forces to feed in details of suspects, witnesses, and victims with the information then being logged, indexed, and crossreferenced. Where more than one force shares an interest in a suspect they work together to agree who will lead the investigation reducing the opportunity for duplication (referred to as deconfliction). Each force has an Operation Hydrant Single Point of Contact (SPOC) whose role it is to act as the link between the national policing operation and local investigations. GMP’s SPOC Supt Peter Marsh comments, “Policing has been criticised in the past for a lack of joined up working – the Soham Investigation and the findings of the Bichard Inquiry are a prime example. At the same time, we are in a climate of austerity where working in the most
Supt Peter Marsh is GMP’s single point of contact for Op Hydrant
If you or your team are less familiar with the remit and requirements of Operation Hydrant than you should be, pick up the phone and contact me on x62023, 07795811626 or email peter.marsh@gmp.police.uk.”
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Spotlight
We could be superheroes, just for one day ON Friday 13 May, Key 103’s Cash for Kids held their annual Superhero Day to raise money for a local charity. GMP showed their support and provided resources for a major event held in Albert Square and also raised over £1000 through fundraising efforts across the Force. Each year Cash for Kids chooses a different good cause to support for Superhero Day and the 2016 chosen charity was the When You Wish Upon A Star Foundation. The foundation aims to grant wishes to local children with a life threatening or terminal illness. A wish can be anything from meeting a
Officers from TAU took Darth Vader away
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By Zöe Green favourite celebrity, a trip to Disneyland, Lapland or a family break to Center Parcs. A wish isn’t just for the child, it’s a chance for the whole family including grandparents, aunties and uncles to spend some time together and make some special memories away from long hospital visits and daily routines. On the day, Cash for Kids made the wishes of five children come true by turning them into real life superhero’s for the day. Little did they know that they would have a direct video request from Chief Constable Ian Hopkins to save the City and Key 103’s presenter Mike Toolan and the When You Wish Upon A Star Wish Fairy, as both had been kidnapped from the Key 103 studios by Darth Vader and his Stormtroopers. Joining a convoy of police motorcycles, Transformer vehicles and a fire engine, the superheroes arrived in Albert Square ready to save the day. They rescued Mike and the Wish Fairy from Darth Vader and soon after GMP officers from the Tactical Aid Unit stormed Albert Square in full uniform to arrest and take away the Star Wars bad guys. Alongside supporting the special event in Albert Square, fundraising activities were held throughout the Force to raise money for the charity.
Five children became their favourite superhero for a day
There was a Superhero dress up or dress down day for all non-operational staff in return for a donation to Cash for Kids. Oliver Cooper and Luke Day (pictured bottom right) chose to go all out and arrived at work dressed as Superman and the Hulk to collect donations from their colleagues. Other teams around the Force organised bake sales, raffles, superhero sweepstakes, bacon butty mornings and even fun Zumba and belly dance classes, all to raise money for a great cause. CC Ian Hopkins said: “I’m delighted that GMP colleagues have shown their compassion and generosity on Superhero Day, by coming together to raise money for children and their families who are struggling with life threatening or
terminal illnesses. “Events like these highlight how dedicated our officers and staff are to making a positive difference to our communities. I am immensely proud that we have raised a fantastic amount towards this worthy charity and I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who took part.”
GMP staff dressed up as superheroes
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Obituaries
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Letters
Letters of Appreciation
PC Whittaker and PC Harratt On Tuesday 26 April there was an incident at school involving one of our parents who suffers with mental health problems. I just wanted to let you know that the two officers who dealt with the situation were extremely helpful and caring and a credit to the police force. Pastoral Manager, St Mary’s Primary School, Moss Side
PC Bentley – Traffic I am delighted to inform you that one of your officers DC 14710 Daniel Bentley has been commended by Judge Mairs at Newcastle Crown Court for the assistance he provided to colleagues form the North East Regional Special Operations Unit (NERSOU). Daniel’s conscientious work greatly assisted in the capture of the offenders. Det Chief Superintendent Tim Walker, Head of Crime, Northumbria Police
Sgt Nick Sidebottom, PC Neil Williams, PC Rob Crossley and PC Jackie Street Thank you to the officers who attended earlier on this morning. This was yet again another example of the first class professional policing that we as a housing provider received from the area team. This exclusion with power of arrest injunction will clearly improve the lives of not only the one year old child of the tenant but the other residents who have had to put up with relentless abuse from Mr Bennett and his associates who had though themselves above the law by evading services and intimidating others. Mark Kenny, Community Safety Officer, Brooklands E4
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PC Karl Lukoschek I am writing to say thank you, and bring to your attention the great work of your officers at Hazel Grove station after an incident in which I had £320 stolen. In particular PC Karl Lukoschek for the very efficient way he dealt with the situation and the way he kept us informed at all times, which made us feel that we mattered. Karl did get us our money back, he could not have been more helpful and we cannot thank him enough. He is a credit to the police force”. Anon
PC Corlett and PC Shaw Serious Collision Investigation Unit I am writing on behalf of our family to record our extreme gratitude for the assistance and support that we have received from the above an named officer in dealing with the case relating to the death of my mother Mrs Dorothy Heath who was killed in a tragic motor accident on 23 June 2015. Since the date of the accident Nick Corlett and his colleague Phil Shaw have provided exceptional support and assistance to our family in dealing with the legal process and the emotional impact of this incident. This support extended to telephone calls out of hours and whilst off duty to ensure that we were fully informed of all developments. Whilst the case has only been concluded recently we have been supported throughout the process with exceptional consideration and empathy for our situation. I cannot imagine how we might have handled this situation without their support. I would therefore like to ensure that they are appropriately commended for the way they have fulfilled their duties in what must be a most difficult role and that the force are commended for such provision of support to a victim’s family. I do hope that this letter be placed on Nick’s record and that he will receive the recognition that he justly deserves. GRAHAM HEATH
AT 3am on Saturday 7 May, officers and staff from forces across the country ascended all of the 214 Wainwright peaks of the Lake District between them and lit a blue flare in honour of the Care of Police Survivors (COPS) charity. Around 30 GMP officers and staff joined other forces to make a total of 200 people on the peaks raising around £15,000 between them for the charity. PC Mark Humphrys who organised the GMP teams and ascended
Blencathra said: “The rambling Gods were certainly smiling on us all that weekend as the sunset and the clear night sky were stunning. “I woke at about 2am (an hour prior to light up) and was gobsmacked to see all the head-torches on each of the surrounding peaks, and well beyond. Needless to say we all tried our best with Morse code mammoth fail! “At 3am it was time to ignite the flares. From Blencathra we had a great view of Skiddaw, Grisedale
Angie Humphrys in the winning ‘Selfie on the Summit’ picture
GMP Life
Cops light up the Lakes for COPS
Pike, Pillar, Great Gable and Helvellyn, to name but a few. “The following evening at Brathay Hall, Thwaites had kindly supplied a large amount of Wainwrights ale (heavily subsidised) for the event. Being gracious guests we obliged. “Speaking to a number of Mountain Rescue Team members from around GMP there was great enthusiasm in promoting interest in the event for next year to ensure a significant GMP presence and try to cover each and every one of the 214 peaks. “We hope to see you there!”
Boggartise Manchester
PCSO Sam Reynolds with the young cadets at a community litter pick
A PCSO from Leigh has formed a group of young police cadets in Hindley. The Hindley Young Police Cadets, made up of children aged five to 10years-old, meet every Wednesday morning during school holidays and undertake activities in the community. PCSO Linda Shambley came up
with the idea to promote awareness of the community and environment to young people. The cadets have a structured learning curriculum and work with volunteer environmental officers who suggest worthwhile activities for them within the community.
TACTICAL aid officer Gareth Sullivan has been filling his spare time illustrating a children’s book written by his cousin Christian Kowalczuk. ‘The Boggarts of Boggart Hole Clough’ is a story based on a real Manchester park where Gareth and Christian used to play when they were children. Legend has it, sprite like creatures named boggarts live and cause mischief in the park. The self-published book is for sale on Amazon and Facebook and has so far been extremely successful. The cousins have been touring schools and are
currently in talks for the book to be sold in Waterstones. “My colleagues have all been very supportive of the book and most of the officers on my relief with children have bought a copy.” Gareth said.
Gareth Sullivan with his illustrations
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What’s On?
A special event was held by the The team is unique and has received Design for Security team alongside national and international acclaim for the Salford University in May to help educate work they do. For more information local authorities and external forces on please click here the work they do. Taking place at Sedgley Park, the session was opened by Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jim Battle. Design for Security is GMP's own crime prevention design team which uses innovative design ideas to reduce crime and create safer communities.
Caption Competition
Send your caption suggestions to Brief@gmp.police.uk Last edition’s winner was Matthew Coleridge from the Intelligence Development Unit at Elizabeth Slinger Road
What’s On?
News
Designed for Success
2 July Great Manchester Swim Salford Quays 5-21 August Olympics 2016
29 August—3 September
Rio de Janeiro 31 August
Sister Act
The Who
Palace Theatre
Manchester Arena
4 August 23 June “Well I followed the instructions but I still have one screw left..”
EU Referendum
Emergency Services open day INTU Trafford Centre 29 June Rihanna
6 June—13 July
Manchester Arena
Derren Brown: Miracle at the Lowry
1 July 7 Sep—2 Oct
100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme
Cirque du Soleil—Amaluna Intu Trafford Centre Big Top 8 July Trans awareness event
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Sedgley Park
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Shining a light on service
I will if you will A team effort: A range of people involved with the campaign are pictured including PSCO Chris Rigg (on weight machine) PC Steve WightmanLove, PS Ash Oxton (to the left of ACC Potts), ACC Rob Potts and PCSO Michael Crompton (on height machine)
GMP has launched a community initiative to get women in Bury more active. The ‘I Will If You Will’ scheme, operated in collaboration with Bury Council and funded by Sport England, is aimed at helping women and girls in Bury to get more healthy and have fun while they do it with something to suit every age, ability and fitness level. In September 2013, Bury was chosen to pilot the programme to create a shift in attitude towards sport
and physical activity. Since it began, more than 11,000 people have engaged with IWIYW and almost £35,000 of funding has been awarded to local groups. GMP and Bury council came together for an event at Bury Police Station, Dunster Road, last month to showcase the scheme and give people a taster of what is on offer. Sgt Ash Oxton said: “I’m thoroughly impressed by the hard work of both IWIYW and our local wellbeing team.
Officers were able to try a wide range of classes and demonstrations at the event and were also able to seek advice health and sport professionals. “We are committed to promoting getting active and leading a healthy lifestyle, which can help reduce stress, prevent illness and create a happier workforce. “I am delighted to be working alongside Bury Council on this project; hopefully this is something that can be used across Greater Manchester.”
THE City of Manchester team is launching an awards programme that highlights excellent customer service. The Customer Service Ambassador Recognition programme is already in place on the former North Manchester division and has seen over 60 nominations in the last 12 months, resulting in 14 ‘Ambassador of the Month’ awards presented to PCs, PCSOs, staff and Special Constables. Each submission is assessed against the three drivers of satisfaction: • Did the nominee take the action expected of them? • Did they take the matter seriously? • Did they provide reassurance? Special Constable Michael Dalton was the most recent person to receive the Ambassador of the Month award for how he handled an assault where a man had punched a random woman to the ground on a busy Friday night in Manchester City Centre. SC Dalton was first on the scene and was highly praised by the public and his supervision for the way he handled the incident, from detaining the offender and tending to the injuries of the victim, to identifying witnesses and gathering evidence ahead of when further assistance arrived. From the week commencing 20 June, the awards programme is being expanded to encompass the former South Manchester division. A series of events will be taking place to inform officers and staff about the scheme, which has been put in place to improve community trust and confidence.
Sport
By Sgt Kal Bhatti
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Sport
Cops take on the council
FORGET the Euros. It was a battle between the police and council at a recent football tournament in aid of charity Retrak. Oldham police officers took on the local authority in the first semi-final on Thursday 12 May to help support homeless children in Africa. GMP has worked closely with Retrak for a number of years through fundraising events and an annual trip to Ethiopia to work with disadvantaged and homeless children which is self-funded by the officers who take part. Supt Chris Hill was one of the officers who went over last year and is responsible for organising the football tournament. He said: “I’m so proud and privileged to be fundraising for this amazing charity.
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“I will never forget the experience of meeting genuinely amazing Retrak employees, fellow volunteers and of course the children themselves. When I heard their individual stories not only did I question how they still managed to smile but also how much we take our own lifestyles and ‘essentials’ for granted. “I’m looking to raise £2250 so any donations would be greatly appreciated, quite simply £2 goes a long way to ensuring the safety of a homeless child in Africa.” To support this worthy cause please visit the fundraising page: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ chrishill8569
A Titanic effort A GROUP of officers from Stretford and Stockport lifted 750 tonnes in a bid to raise cash for the Macmillan Cancer Research Fund. As well as raising over £10,000 for the fund, the 12-strong team managed to set a new Guinness World Record deadlifting 750 tonnes between them – beating the world record by more than 300 tonnes. The record breaking lifts formed part of a nationwide charity initiative involving 56 gyms across the UK, each aiming to collectively lift the actual weight of the hull of the Titanic of 24,000 tonnes – all in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research Fund. ACC Garry Shewan, who supported the twoday challenge and is a cancer survivor himself, said: “Several members of the team taking part in the challenge have been personally affected by cancer within their families
and as a result wanted to try and create something really special to raise as much money as possible for the cause. “The world record attempt seemed an ideal way to try and achieve this. Thanks to the efforts of everyone in the team, we managed to not only beat the world record but also raise a tremendous amount of money for the Macmillan Fund.” The fund raising efforts by the team will be followed by further initiatives during the coming months.
ACC Garry Shewan with some of the record breaking team
THIS year marked the 20th anniversary of the Kevin Dearnaley memorial rugby match played between GMP and Glossop Rugby Union Football Club (RUFC). Kevin was a serving GMP officer within the Armed Crime Unit when he was fatally injured in a road traffic collision during an advanced police motorcycle training course on the 27 March 1996. He was 31-years-old and married with two young sons. As a keen rugby player, Kevin played for both the Force team and Glossop RUFC. When he died a remembrance match was organised between both sides, which has since turned in to a yearly tradition. This year’s match took place on
Thursday 28 April. GMP put up a good fight but in the end Glossop were the winning team with a score of 23-9. Since turning 18, Kevin’s sons Tom, 24 and Joe, 21 have played in the remembrance match representing Glossop. They are both Glossop RUFC first team players and also play for their county. Managed by DC Mark Dunnington, the current GMP rugby team includes two players who took part in the original match in 1996, retired sergeant Derek Spencer and serving officer John Conroy. “We hope to keep up this tradition and play the match for at least another twenty years,” said John Conroy. “The next step will be presenting a plaque to Kevin’s family and Glossop RUFC in remembrance of Kevin; this will hopefully take place at next year’s match.” If you are interested in playing rugby league or union for GMP, please contact Mark Dunnington on x66453.
Gone Fishing
Sport
Kevin Dearnaley memorial match
(From L-R) Cllr Peter Rush, club member, Peter McKie and club treasurer Jim Ridley
AS part of Mental Health Awareness Week in May, officers and staff were offered the chance to try out angling sessions for free at the Heywood & District Angling Society. Peter McKie from the GMP Mental Health Peer Support Network organised the event. He explained: “Fishing can be very beneficial for maintaining and improving mental wellbeing. “It might not be the first activity
that springs to mind when it comes to psychological health, however many find it very relaxing. “It is also a form of mindfulness as you focusing on one thing which can give your mind a rest from dayto-day stresses and cluttered thoughts that we all manage without thinking about it.” If you’d like to find out more about the Mental Health Peer Support Network, please click here.
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