THREE new officers are joining a police rural crime team in a bid to crack down on the issue.

The dedicated special constables join Dorset Police's Rural Crime Team to enhance the county’s capability in tackling crime across rural communities.

Special constables are unique individuals who bring skills and experience from outside of policing that benefit the communities of Dorset. 'Specials' have the same powers and wear the same uniform as regular police officers.

In 2021, special constables performed 18,000 hours of duty throughout Dorset. Each one makes time to police Dorset and keep people safe, for no monetary gain.

Inspector Lee Turner, from the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team, said: “I am incredibly happy to welcome Jon, Nathan and Dave to the team.

“Two of the new team members are experienced, having served as special constables elsewhere in the county. Following a recent selection process, I am thrilled to welcome them to the Rural Crime Team.

“These additional officers will enhance our capability in tackling crime across Dorset’s rural communities and support us in putting victims first – both of which are at the heart of everything we do.”

Special constables are volunteer police officers who are used to compliment regular officers. They are members of the community who really care about the county in which they live and who want to support local police to make a difference. This demonstrates a commitment and determination to make Dorset the safest county.

Deputy Chief Officer Antony Streets of the Dorset Police Special Constabulary said: “Embedding our special constables within the Rural Crime Team will assist in providing exceptional local policing across our rural communities.

“I am very proud to support this historic initiative in Dorset as we look to embed special constables in more business areas throughout the Dorset Police family.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, said: “I am delighted to see three new dedicated special constables welcomed to the Rural Crime Team. Fighting rural crime is a priority of my Police and Crime Plan and these additional officers will help the police be more visible and effective in Dorset’s rural communities. The continued expansion of the team shows our commitment to tackling rural crime as we endeavour to make Dorset the safest county.”