NATIONAL AWARDS
GOING THE EXTRA MILE National Roads Policing Officer of the Year
Inspector Simon Hills of Thames Valley Police has been honoured as this year’s National Roads Policing Officer of the Year, sponsored by Slater and Gordon. Currently leading proactive operations and Commercial Vehicle Unit teams, Inspector Hills consistently goes the extra mile to provide exceptional roads policing services. Notably, he initiated Operation Tutelage in 2017, which has since become a nationwide initiative, fostering collaboration between law enforcement and the motor insurance industry. Using ANPR technology, this operation
collects data on uninsured drivers and stores it in the Midas database. Registered keepers receive letters reminding them of the consequences of driving without insurance, resulting in an impressive 80 per cent compliance rate. The remaining 20 per cent are meticulously investigated
and placed on ANPR hotlists, many of whom are linked to other criminal activities.
Operation Tutelage significantly alleviates the burden on frontline policing by resolving the majority of issues outside the criminal justice system. Moreover, it furnishes valuable intelligence that aids in disrupting illegal drivers and criminals. This impactful programme has been widely adopted by police forces across the nation.
Inspector Hills faced the daunting challenge of implementing this scheme amid financial constraints and uncertainties. During its introduction, roads policing endured significant budget cuts. Nevertheless, Operation Tutelage has proven to be a cost-effective approach, reducing demands on law enforcement,
enabling the public to address insurance issues without legal proceedings, and enhancing intelligence for combating uninsured driving and criminal activities. Congratulations Simon, and thank you Slater and Gordon, from all at PFEW.
NATIONAL INVESTIGATOR OF THE YEAR
Laura Corscadden stands as the well-deserved recipient of this year’s National Investigator of the Year Award, sponsored by The Open University, recognised for her exceptional detective skills and extensive experience spanning CID, protecting vulnerable people and counterterrorism. As a dedicated detective inspector at Thames Valley Police, Laura adeptly manages the Reading CID team, achieving remarkable results despite the challenges posed by Reading’s diverse and demanding local policing area.
Her unwavering professionalism, leadership and composed demeanour are the cornerstones of her team’s extraordinary performance, earning her the trust and confidence of colleagues, partners, and stakeholders alike.
28 | POLICE | SPECIAL EDITION | 2023
Inspiring detective inspector’s journey in leading, developing and innovating policing
Laura’s commitment to excellence is evident not only in her team but also in her impact on broader staff under her command, extending across Reading and when fulfilling the Duty DI role. This commitment translates into elevated morale, seamless teamwork, and outstanding outcomes in tackling the most serious crimes, all while fostering positive community interactions. Laura’s dedication to her craft shines through in her pursuit of advanced training, including her ongoing participation in PIP3 Major Crime SIO core training, positioning her as a future PIP3 SIO.
Beyond her core responsibilities,
Laura’s leadership extends to addressing critical issues like violence against women and girls. Her instrumental role in establishing Op Vigilant in Reading Town Centre demonstrates her
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