Page 100 - Once a copper 10 03 2020

John Haddon would be 51 years old if he had not been victim of that cruel
monster. I have often thought what John would have done with his life, would
he have married and had children of his own and a successful career? I like
to think so.

Christmas 1981 arrived, and I spent it working shifts in the office and charge
room at Erdington. Whilst Christmas is meant to be a time for joy and
celebration, in the police experience we found that crime doesn’t stop for
Christmas.

Domestic abuse. There are many factors that would spark physical or
emotional abuse at Christmas. The stress of the holiday period, being in closer
proximity with family for longer periods can all contribute to an attack.
Inevitably, an increased consumption of alcohol and drugs, while celebrating
the holiday, can trigger abuse.

The domestic abuse agencies used to maintain they received fewer reports
of abuse over the festive period, however this was thought to be because
the abuser spent more time at home monitoring the victim’s behaviour more
closely than ever, making it very difficult for a person experiencing domestic
violence to access support over the festive period. The agencies may have
been quiet but for the Police service it was business as usual.

Drink driving. From an arrest and charge office perspective we most definitely
saw enough evidence suggesting a link between Christmas celebrations and
a big increase in drink driving. Whether it’s driving home after the Christmas
party or taking a friend home after a boozy evening, people seem more
relaxed about breaking this law in December. It doesn’t matter how cold it is.
It’s not worth it.

Rape/sexual assault. Police forces witness first-hand the increase rapes and
sexual assaults in winter. People tend to let down their hair at Christmas dos –
and the joyful atmosphere can be the perfect time for an attacker to strike.
At this time more than any other we heard offenders use alcohol as an
excuse for committing sexual assaults.
Burglary. The family home is meant to be the place we go for sanctuary and
peace from the stresses of everyday life. Home invasion by an intruder is an
invasive, upsetting crime at any time. Burglary of the home is even more
tragic at Christmas. While there is a risk of being burgled throughout the year,
the risk increases at Christmas. New items are on display, and the Christmas
tree illuminates the gifts underneath, making them enticing to a would-be
burglar. Burglars often target items they can easily carry – such as electronics,
jewellery, and money.

At Christmas time we were always kept busy apprehending and processing Page100
the festive felons.