No time for arrest, says new Western Hills cop
By Tim O?Connell
The Western Hutt?s new Policeman on the beat is very keen to head for the hills when it comes to dealing with those he serves-after all, that?s where the action is. Constable Eric Thom began his new role as the Western Hills? new community constable on March 23, returning to life in the blue uniform after taking a period of leave from the force. His appointment to the position finally gives the area a local police presence after having no community constable after Flora Neilson vacated her post last year. Despite being immediately bombarded with files in his first few days, the new cop on the bushy beat between Korokoro, Kelson and Alicetown is enjoying the early contact with residents. ?It?s been very busy so far, just getting my head around things and visiting a few of the local schools as well.? Like many of the other local police in the Hutt, Constable Thom?s movements have largely been around Lower Hutt and Wainuiomata since he graduated from Police College in December 2004. While his time in the force has been relatively short, he says the nature of Police work in the Hutt has taught him plenty already. ?I?m old school in the Hutt Valley,? he quickly points out. Living locally with his wife and young child, Constable Thom says he is looking forward to establishing a good relationship between himself and the community in the coming weeks. ?My view is that the position is one that serves the community, and I?m hoping to bring in some new initiatives to do that. ?I?d like to be that sort of contact where people don?t feel intimidated about ringing the Police. ?If someone?s outside their house, or the neighbours house alarm has gone off, people shouldn?t think that we?re too busy to come out.? In the meantime, those wishing to speak with Constable Thom are invited to get in touch with him at the Petone Police Station on Jackson Street, or by phone on 5761523.
