TEN years ago, Karen could not have imagined spending her days working in a marketing office and her evenings executing drug warrants with Dyfed-Powys Police.

Now, as she prepares to mark a decade of service as a Special Constable, Karen’s journey exemplifies how this distinctive role enables individuals to experience frontline policing while balancing a busy professional life.

Karen’s interest in the role was sparked when, a decade ago, she came across an article in a local newspaper detailing the thrilling experiences of another Special Constable. Enthralled by the challenges and excitement of policing, she took the leap and joined the Special Constabulary.

One of the aspects of the role that Karen enjoys most is taking part in search warrants. She explained, “The careful planning and coordination involved create a sense of anticipation and focus. I love being part of such organised operations, which for a police officer, can feel like stepping into an action movie.”

Karen recalls a particularly intense moment during a high-stakes drugs warrant when she discovered a sports bag stuffed with cash, neatly bound with elastic bands. This significant find eventually led to the criminal conviction of an individual for possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply.

While there is undoubtedly a surface level of excitement in policing, Karen notes the deeper fulfilment that comes from knowing she is playing a key role in addressing serious crime, especially drug-related offences in her own community. “There’s a real satisfaction in knowing that you’re making a difference,” she said.

Becoming a Special Constable felt natural to Karen. As an outgoing and sociable individual, the role allowed her to make use of her strong interpersonal skills, and she has built lasting friendships, many of whom she met during her initial training and who are still serving in Dyfed-Powys today.

After two years of service, Karen was promoted to Sergeant, now leading a small team of Special Constables in Pembrokeshire. “The role is a stark contrast to my marketing career, which is mostly office-based,” Karen explained. “It has allowed me to engage directly with the community, meeting and talking with people from all walks of life.”

“It’s a challenging role that can often test your limits, but that’s what makes it so rewarding. If you’re looking to expand your skills, build confidence, and give something back to the community, there’s no career quite like it. I wholeheartedly recommend becoming a Special Constable. It truly offers the best of both worlds.”

For those interested in taking on a new challenge or exploring a life in uniform, Dyfed-Powys Police is currently accepting applications for Special Constables. Information on eligibility criteria, the application and recruitment process, and frequently asked questions can be found on their website.

Dyfed-Powys Police will also be holding an online recruitment event for prospective applicants:

30th September, 7pm – Online (via MS Teams).

THE second breach of a court restraining order has resulted in a final warning for Silverdale Lodge resident Graham Potter.

On September 20, Potter was found drinking in a children’s play park in Johnston with Gemma Horton, despite being subject to a restraining order preventing contact with her.

Potter was sentenced to 18 weeks in custody, suspended for 12 months. He must also carry out 15 rehabilitation activity days and pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

A MAN has appeared before magistrates after punching a barman to the head at the First and Last pub, Pembroke Dock, causing him to fall to the floor.

Francis McDonagh had been drinking at the pub with his wife on September 8 when he suddenly hit out at pub worker Darren Carey.

“It was completely unprovoked,” Crown Prosecutor Abigail Jackson told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“The complainant had only served him in the pub as a customer and he didn’t think there had been any issues.”

Ms Jackson went on to say that the assault took place at around 7pm on September 8.

“The defendant appeared to be leaving the pub but then he started walking towards the back door.  The victim told them to have a good night and suddenly he felt a hit to the back of his head, causing him to fall to the ground.  

“He then put his hand to the back of his head, he saw blood as the result of a small laceration.”

This week McDonagh pleaded guilty to a charge of assault by beating.  He was represented by Mr David Williams who said the assault was provoked by a comment made by the complainant.

“The barman accepts that he said something inappropriate to my client’s wife and that upset her,” he said.  “This was a single punch and he wishes he could take back his actions that night.  He’s remorseful and realises, with the biggest of hindsight, that this was not the way to deal with the matter.”

After listening to the evidence, magistrates adjourned sentencing for a probation report to be prepared.  The date of sentencing has yet to be confirmed by the courts.