Milton Keynes police announce funding for new position combating drug offences

Thames Valley Police are piloting a new role within their force, a drugs co-ordinator, to work with their forensics team.

This new position within the force's forensic department, is designed to see cases expedited in a quicker time frame.

Spectronomy, the measurement of the interactions between light and matter, and the reactions and measurements of radiation intensity and wavelength, will be used to assess drug cases, as part of this project.

Alongside forensic analysis of drugs, the role will entail an examination of strategy and the way evidence is collected.

Anthony Stansfeld, Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, said: “I am delighted to have been able to provide this funding for the creation of a Drugs Co-ordinator role within Thames Valley Police.

“This pilot scheme will improve the timeliness of drugs-related cases across Thames Valley. I am therefore delighted to be able to award this exceptional funding to help support this Pilot and, in turn, keep our communities safe.”

Funding received has been secured through the Community Safety Fund (CSF). This is limited funding that the Police and Crime Commissioner has access to via the Home Office, Ministry of Justice (MoJ), Police Property Act Funds. The funding is designed to support innovative ideas and this pilot scheme qualified, fitting that criteria.

Kay Hannam, head of forensic services, said: “The forensic investigation unit are excited at the prospect to pilot this new scientific approach to support the force with tackling drug crime in our communities.

“We are extremely grateful to the Police & Crime Commissioner for realising this opportunity.”