Nottinghamshire Police’s Missing Persons Team Battles Rising Cases
Every day, Nottinghamshire’s Missing Persons Team tackles more than a dozen missing person reports. Over 90% are found within 24 hours, but when that fails, public help via social media is crucial.
Public Appeals Save Lives and Track Down Vulnerable People
In the past year, the team has made almost daily social media appeals. These have helped find children at risk of sexual exploitation, elderly dementia sufferers, and those in danger of suicide.
“Some of the people we deal with really are at the lowest and most traumatic point in their lives so our priority is to keep them safe from harm,” said Chief Inspector James Walker, who leads the Missing Persons Team.
“The public’s help is vital. Sharing our posts gives us thousands more eyes and ears.”
How a Facebook Share Led to an Arrest
One case saw a missing girl found miles away thanks to a Facebook post shared by another police force. This tip-off kickstarted an investigation that led to her rescue and the arrest of an older male suspect.
“That simply wouldn’t have happened without that appeal,” Walker confirmed.
The Team’s Growing Workload
The Missing Persons Team includes police officers and civilian staff who not only search for missing people but also partner with local agencies to protect those who regularly go missing or face exploitation.
- Over the last year, Nottinghamshire Police handled more than 5,600 missing person referrals.
- This is a rise as demands bounce back to pre-COVID levels.
- Each case is assessed for vulnerability to ensure resources are sent where they’re needed most.
Inspector Walker extends a heartfelt thanks to everyone who’s shared appeals. “The simple act of sharing can make a huge difference in safeguarding lives.”
