A probationary police officer has made a drugs arrest on her first day on the beat.
PC Halewood is one of 37 newly qualified officers who were brought into community police teams three weeks ahead of their original start date in response to the government’s UK lockdown.
The female officer made the arrest while working in the Swindon area, as part of Response Team 3. The suspect is in custody for more than one drugs offence, and a large quantity of cannabis was seized.
Commenting on the early start of the new police officers, Chief Constable Kier Pritchard said: “I am delighted that we have been able to bring the date forward for these officers to be deployed within our community policing teams and provide support where it is most needed.
“These are unprecedented times and as a police force, it is crucial that we maintain the business the public expects from us – the role of policing is, and always has been clear. We must continue to deliver a police service that protects the public, prevents crime and keeps you safe.
“I have personally met with these new officers and I can say they will be a fantastic addition to our Force – they are dedicated and community spirited and will help us help you during these difficult times.
“These 37 newly qualified officers were part of a group of 57 new recruits – we are now exploring options which might enable the next 20 to join our CPTs as soon as possible. We are training more officers than ever before – when we opened police officer recruitment last week, we received 300 applications in just five days – it is really encouraging that so many people want to join the force and support their communities.”
