The overall purpose of the day was to engage and interest pupils and students and hopefully lead to considerations in Policing, Law, and the Criminal Justice system. Students from across North Wales and Bangor University students were invited to experience and learn about the process of solving a serious crime.
The event was opened by T/ACC Gareth Evans from North Wales Police, a former Bangor student, who introduced the students to the investigative structure of the day and also Detective Sergeant Mike Taggart MBE also from North Wales Police who provided an insight as to the support that is needed to support families through investigations. The students were led through various clues and exhibits from numerous crime scenes across North Wales and surrounding Forces. The day was supported with a number of key guest speakers who were on hand to assist out student Detectives and give a real insight to the challenges of such an investigation:
Dr Anya Hunt who is the head of Scientific Support for North Wales Police who led the students through the numerous options of collating scientific evidence and clues as part of the investigation.
Detective Sergeant Laura Griffiths, an expert in suspect and witness interviews and part of the Force Major Incident Team who deal with murder investigation.
Mr Richard Jones who is an intelligence expert who was available to discuss the tracing of and tracking of stolen vehicles.
The day proved to be a resounding success and has received considerable positive feedback, Josh Baxter a student from Hawarden High School said:
“I speak for myself and my fellow students when I say that the murder investigation day at Bangor University, whilst fun and interactive, was also extremely interesting and insightful into the process of murder investigations with the police. As someone who is already interested in joining the force, I can confidently say that this event clarified my interests perfectly, and for my friends who were not thinking about joining, it has caused them to consider whether it could be an option for them. Overall, the event was an amazing time for all of us, and without a doubt I can say I wouldn’t hesitate to take part once again. Thank you to everyone involved.”
If you or your school would be interested in a similar event please get in touch or visit our Academic Sessions for Schools and Colleges webpage: https://www.bangor.ac.uk/CAHSS/sessions-for-schools