HAVING read the article in the Echo regarding volunteers manning the Boscombe police box, it does seem to raise some concerns.
Most volunteers who work with Dorset Police work behind the scenes and those who man the safe bus in Bournemouth have a warranted officer with them.
So now Dorset Police wants to put volunteers in the front line.
With Dorset Police already tasking people to report crime online as opposed to the failed 101 system, this role has a high level of risk and I hope Inspector Setchell has taken this into account.
So the question has to be asked, what risk assessment was made? What level of security clearance has been given and what protection has been afforded to those that choose to do this service from intimidation and threats?
Also what are the chances of sensitive information about an individual or household being spread around when the allegation is unfounded?
Even though there is a phone attached to the box, not long ago it was out of order. You can’t rely on CCTV as the box was tagged in graffiti so the cameras around the box are non-operational and no offender has been found.
I think Dorset Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner need to think deep on this as the risk are higher than the publicity.
NIGEL GILLESPIE
Ascham Road, Bournemouth
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