Police joined judges, magistrates, lawyers and court officers during a special open day at Basildon crown court on Saturday, April 19.
More than 500 people attended the event during which members of the public were able to visit the cells, sit in on mock trials and also chat with resident judges.
The public were able to participate in mock sentencing hearings by giving their opinions on what sentences should be carried out and then comparing them with the rulings by the judge. The day was a remarkable success and it is to be hoped that it can be repeated on a regular basis so that more of us can get a first hand look at the system that works for our protection.
But while visitors were able to see how the court deal with villains, the police and other organisations connected with law and order had stands to highlight their work.
Basildon crime reduction officer Mick Armstrong and police community support officers (PCSOs) Jakki Hardingham and Dave Newman were kept busy giving advice and handing out leaflets on home security and free straps to keep mobile phones and purses out of the clutches of thieves.
Members of the domestic violence and hate crime unit at Basildon police station had a large stand and were joined by Inspector Nick Burston, vulnerable victims co-ordinator for Essex Police, and Paula Ward from Essex Against Domestic Violence.Their stand included eight red full-size figures representing the average number of people killed annually in Essex as a result of domestic violence.
Insp Burston said: “There was a lot of interest in the figures. They help draw attention to the problems of domestic violence and also raise awareness of the work being carried out by Essex Police in partnership with other agencies.”
Pictured are:-Upper: Judge Philip Clegg at the Essex police stand with PCSOs Jakki Hardingham and Dave Newman and visitors Martin and William Lamb, aged six.
Lower: Insp Nick Burston with Pc Anna Brown and Marion John from Basildon domestic violence and hate crime unit and Paula Ward (left) from Essex Against Domestic Violence.
