Essex Police add 56 new officers to their ranks

Essex Police welcomed 56 new officers at their HQ, marking a step in enhancing local policing and crime reduction efforts in the county

New Recruits Celebrate Graduation at Essex Police HQ

The new recruits graduated at Essex Police HQ in front of Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Nolan, Police Fire and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst, His Majesty’s Deputy Lieutenant for Essex Sidra Naeem, High Sheriff of Essex Julie Fosh, and Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, Colchester Garrison Commander, along with their friends and family.

DCC Nolan’s Address to New Officers

DCC Nolan spoke to the new officers about the unique nature of policing. He said they will “save lives and change lives.”

He stated, “You will help people in their darkest moments. You will give them hope and help deliver justice. You will see people at their best and their worst.”

“Each experience will make you stronger and more resilient. You will be part of a team, part of the Essex Police family defined by professionalism, dedication, commitment, and bravery.”

“Treasure this moment. Remember our role is to help people, catch criminals, and keep people safe – including the person standing next to you.”

“Do those things, and you will find that the people of our brilliant county will support you.”

Essex Police Achievements

DCC Nolan informed the new officers they are joining a force that is delivering for the people of Essex. The force solved 2,000 more crimes last year compared to the previous year.

Essex Police also made more arrests and secured over 15,000 criminal charges in 2025, a 12 percent increase from 2024.

Neighbourhood Policing Teams are now more visible and accessible to the public. There was a £4.5 million investment into the force last year to introduce more officers and fund community outreach.

Commissioner Hirst’s Commitment

Roger Hirst MBE, Police, Fire, and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said, “More local, visible, and accessible policing remains the top public priority for investment, as shown by a recent PFCC survey.”

“We remain focused on our core priorities – reducing all crime, tackling violence against women and girls, driving down anti-social behaviour, protecting vulnerable people, bringing road deaths to zero, and creating safe and secure communities.”

“These are tasks which we are sure our new officers will rise to meet.”