POLICE: ARE YOU FREE TO BE OLD BILL?

Appeal for ‘volunteer detectives’

CASH-strapped police are hunting for volunteer detectives to help them solve crime.

Two unpaid positions have been created by Essex Police to help them crack the most serious cases.

The move comes as the force prepares to increase its council tax share for the second year.

It emerged last year that the force has 600 fewer officers than in 2012. The volunteers will help detectives in the Major Crime Unit and the Serious Economic Crime Unit.

An ad for the roles revealed: “We’re on the lookout for driven, organised and selfmotivated individuals who can volunteer for a minimum of 16 hours a month as Special Constables in a volunteer detective type role.”

Appealing for the help, Temporary Detective Superintendent Stephen Jennings said: “Do you want to help investigate the most serious crimes in Essex including murders, attempted murders, stranger rapes and kidnappings?

“Could you help us investigate complex fraud and corruption cases, money laundering and electoral fraud? If so, you could be a great fit for our Major Crime Unit or Serious Economic Crime Unit. We are looking for people to join our Special Constabulary and work alongside serving detectives.

A recruitment event will be held next week.

Households will also have to stump up an extra £16.8million to help balance its budget.