Constables alienating themselves
As a retired Pc who joined the police in 1952, I am concerned that the modern officer is alienating him/herself from the public and is failing to follow Sir Robert Peel's nine principles. Dr Owen feels aggrieved that he is to pay a £60 fine whilst a West Mercia constable escapes with little more than a ticking off (Shropshire Star, September 11).
Had any Grade One driver decided to do what that officer did when I first joined, he would not have been charged with any offence.
His licence to drive police cars would have been taken from him by the chief constable and, depending on his record, he would have either been returned to beat duties or dismissed from the force.
Had the police been doing their job and patrolling the streets a woman of advanced years would not have deemed it necessary to confront a gang of unruly youths nor would they have accepted complaints from the youths' parents (Shropshire Star, September 11).
It would appear to me that the police are becoming far too political and by so doing are alienating themselves by concentrating on matters that do not concern them.
I agree that Dr Owen should have been fined for exceeding the speed limit - but not on the evidence of a camera many of which are frequently situated in an area to make money.
Finally, I cannot see how the public can respect officers who, when seen, wander about in yellow jackets without headgear and who are frequently seen chewing gum.
PJ Gibson, Oswestry
Popular stories:
David 'The Duke' Dickinson launches new show in a county school
International talk like a pirate day
Daily news blog
Shrewsbury Town's perfect day away
Tyrells beat Tescos in crisp battle
