Detective uses ‘gift’ of autism to catch killers Officer reveals how hidden condition has helped career
Hyear
IE is the trilby-wearing murder detective who says autism has helped him bring down some of the most cold-hearted killers in the West Midlands.
His name is Detective Inspector Warren Hines, and he has been on the force for 21 years.
There is not a lot Det Insp Hines has not seen but last year the distinctive detective spent time off with depression – and has now been diagnosed with Asperger syndrome.
“My life had been really difficult prior to being told that,” said the officer.
“Last was off work with depression, a common occurrence of my life and something a lot of people on the autistic spectrum have to cope with. As a result of that period of illness I received my diagnosis and my life now makes sense.”
He recalled his childhood meant difficulties which he is only now beginning to understand.
“As a child I displayed some challenging behaviour as I was regularly overwhelmed by the world and didn’t understand people,” said Det Insp Hines.
“I found social situations really difficult and when it all got too much I believed that everyone would be far better off without me.
“My mother sought help but was dismissed by the medical profession.
“The support I have received from West Midlands Police has been truly humbling and the counselling I am now receiving has changed my life.
“My partner attended the counselling sessions with me and she now understands why I respond in certain ways to things.”
Det Insp Hines has now shared news of officers.
“I have discussed my autism with my colleagues and the funny thing is, no one is surprised by the diagnosis,” he said.
“I am far happier now than I can ever remember being, which also has a positive effect on those around me.”
He added: “I always wanted to join the police and fulfilled my dream in 1997. My favourite job has to be being a senior investigating officer for homicide cases. There is no bigger responsibility than investigating the death of another human being.”
And his condition, he played a part in his success.
“I see my autism as a gift, not a disability,” he says. “Some of the skills it his diagnosis with fellow said, has has given me have enabled me to make a success of my life and career.
“I can see things differently to everyone else, which is vitally important in my role. I have a fantastic memory and I am not at all bothered about making decisions others seem to find difficult without being distracted by non-relevant detail.
“Autism is far better understood now and while certain aspects of my autism will always be a challenge, the world likes conformity.
“But pretending to be someone else is exhausting and unsustainable. My advice to anyone in a similar situation is to ask for support and celebrate your uniqueness.
“If a cure was developed I would not want it – I’m proud of who I am.”
I can see things differently to everyone else, which is vitally important in my role Det Insp Hines