It’s currently National Specials Weekend and Hertfordshire’s Specials are working harder than ever, with two officers giving up their time to support an increased demand on the Virtual Court Team.
With demand for virtual court hearings increasing due to COVID-19, the Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Virtual Court Team called for assistance from the Specials to see if any willing volunteers could help.
Special Constables Stuart Murray and Neil Cornwell came forward happy to help and completed training which involved getting to grips with the technology and learning how to facilitate the virtual hearings from start to finish, including liaising with the prison service.
Their training means that they can be deployed into custody to help ensure the service runs smoothly.
Both officers have given up hours of their time, including weekends, to put their training to use and ensure that the justice process is not disrupted despite this challenging time for policing.
Chief Inspector David Cooke, from the criminal justice and custody command, said: “Special Constables Murray and Cornwell have been a welcome and valuable addition to the team and we are grateful for their time and support. On National Specials Weekend, I would like to say a big thank you for their help.”
Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd said: “Keeping the criminal justice system moving during this crisis has been particularly challenging. But it is vital for victims and those accused that it is conducted as quickly as possible.
“The fine work of these two officers is just another example of the varied duties performed by our Specials. They can make a real difference to our communities and I thank them and all our other outstanding volunteer officers.”
If you’re interested in becoming a Special Constable, please visit hertspolicespecials.co.uk
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