Thames Valley Police Force has invited in TV documentary makers to film
officers on the beat despite its previous disastrous experience.
In 1982, the force was the subject of the award-winning BBC documentary
Police, which created considerable controversy when horrified viewers witnessed
the insensitive grilling of an alleged rape victim. Police officers involved
were felt to have demonstrated a serious lack of training and expertise.
The programme prompted public demonstrations, hostile press reaction and
questions were asked in Parliament.
But producer Roger Graef has been invited back to film a new programme that
will be transmitted later this year.
"Some people who were around last time are understandably
nervous," said Gayle Ross-iter who is head of corporate information at
Thames Valley.
But Rossiter reports that she has been impressed by Graef’s willingness to
spend time explaining his objectives to staff and put them at ease.
"We hope the programme will illustrate how Thames Valley Police has
moved on in 20 years," said Rossiter.