Officers join Sussex Police scheme to become detectives

Sussex Police have welcomed 19 new officers to the force who will be among the first to complete the detective constable degree-holder entry programme.

The intensive two-year scheme gives specialist training in the investigation of crimes, the force said.

It is part of a recruitment drive in the force after the government announced plans to recruit thousands of officers.

Among the 19 recruits is trainee detective PC Alicia Smith, who wants to work in Sussex Police’s safeguarding investigation units, protecting the most vulnerable people in our communities.

PC Alicia Smith

She said: “Having worked in courts after my law degree, I was passionate about supporting victims so joined Sussex Police as staff, working in both the Criminal Justice Unit and the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub.

“I was inspired by how dedicated the detectives were in helping victims and realised this is an area you can make a very real impact on people’s lives and help make the community safer.”

Also joining the scheme are PC Imogene Robinson, who will build on her experience with the Border Force and her criminology degree, Regional Pride of Britain award winner PC Hannah Richards, and PC Laura Duke.

Officers will become new detectives with Sussex Police

PC Duke has worked with the UK Border Agency and has volunteered with a domestic abuse and sexual abuse charity for the past two years to give support to victims.

She said: “It is incredibly exciting to be a part of the fast track detective route. This route appealed to me as it took into account my previous experience and the emotional resilience I’ve developed.

“As a working mother and at the age of 39, I have realised that it is possible to chase your dream career.”

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne and Chief Constable Jo Shiner welcomed the new detective recruits and the 28 new officers starting on police constable degree apprenticeships this week.

Mrs Bourne said: “I’m delighted that Sussex Police is leading the way in forward-thinking recruitment – being one of the first forces to offer these new entry routes is a huge achievement.”

She said the force is adapting to 21st century policing and she was pleased to see the commitment of the recruits to “make a positive, lasting difference to our communities”.

Sussex PCC Katy Bourne with Chief Constable Jo Shiner and recruits

Chief Constable Shiner said Sussex was one of the first forces to offer the fast-track scheme and 47 officers could be on the beat by as early as December in their roles.

She said: “As crime and technology evolves, our need for investigative roles is greater and more important than it’s ever been, from tackling cyber crime and catching online sex offenders to disrupting serious organised crime.”

A new cohort of 28 future police constables has also joined the force.

Sussex Police Chief Constable Jo Shiner welcomed the recruits at Sussex Police headquarters in Lewes.

She said the detective fast-track programme and PC recruitment offer new entry routes as officers.

New officers have joined the force

“It makes a policing career more accessible for more people, ensuring we create a diverse workforce with the best range of skills, aptitudes and experience we need for 21st century policing,” she said.

Among those joining is PC Jaimine Shahid, pictured right with Jen Woodward and Nico Bowen. She said: “Today is the biggest day of my life. I couldn’t be more proud of myself, all the hard work has paid off. I have always wanted to join the police and until recently was working as a police enquiry officer in Crawley.”