Special Constabulary Team of the Year recognised at annual awards

A team of officers have been named Special Constabulary Team of the Year for their invaluable work in tackling thefts from lorries across Hampshire.

The force’s annual Citizens in Policing Awards celebrate the successes and achievement of those who dedicate their spare time to volunteering in a variety of roles with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary. 

The team of seven special constables, six special sergeants and two senior specials, were honoured for their work in preventing theft from freight vehicles as part of Operation Hoist.

Operation Hoist was established to tackle serious acquisitive crime where criminals target heavy good vehicles in service areas, laybys and industrial estates. Mostly committed by organised crime groups, these thefts have a significant impact on businesses and local communities.

Following a briefing from the force tactical lead for Serious Organised Acquisitive Crime, Special Superintendent Russell Morrison and Special Chief Inspector Simon Tavender took responsibility for setting up and delivering a 12 week policing operation run solely by special constables. This supported other work going on across the force.

The team worked with colleagues from the force’s Intelligence and Tasking Department to gather information, while liaising with the Commercial Vehicle Unit and the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service.

From September to November 2023, Special Constabulary officers were deployed to carry out high visibility patrols and engage with freight drivers in motorway service areas in Fleet, Winchester, Sutton Scotney, Tot Hill and Rownhams.

During the 12 week operation, there were 13 thefts from heavy good vehicles. At that time of year, in the lead up to Christmas, the force would expect to see 25 or more offences in October and November alone.

Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya, said: “This dedicated team of special constables has had a huge impact on preventing crime, saving businesses thousands of pounds in stolen goods. Their work has had an immensely positive impact and feedback from hauliers shows a tremendous appreciation for this effort.

“This operation shows the value that the Special Constabulary can add and going forward, it is hoped this work can be used as a model to tackle other areas of Serious and Organised Crime.”

If you’d like to know more about becoming a Special Constable, please visit our website - https://www.hampshire.police.uk/police-forces/hampshire-constabulary/areas/careers/careers/special-constables/

We also have a variety of Police Support Volunteer roles across the force, which you can find out about by going to https://www.hampshire.police.uk/police-forces/hampshire-constabulary/areas/careers/careers/police-support-volunteers/

And we are currently seeking Cadet Unit Leaders and Cadets in a number of areas, which you can learn more about here https://www.hampshire.police.uk/police-forces/hampshire-constabulary/areas/careers/careers/volunteer-police-cadets/