Cyber security professionals are set to join law enforcement efforts as special constables to combat the rise of digital crime. Policing Minister Sarah Jones announced the initiative in response to the increasing prevalence of digital elements in 90% of all criminal activities, such as those involving social media, phones, and computers.
Special constables, who possess the authority to make arrests, typically focus on community policing. The government is now encouraging volunteers with expertise in cybersecurity to enhance the response to digital offenses.
Ms. Jones emphasized the importance of having tech-savvy volunteers to address the evolving landscape of crime, stating, “Crime is increasingly digital, so our volunteers must be too. We’re opening the doors to cyber and tech experts to join the Specials and help keep people safe online and on our streets.”
The number of special constables in England and Wales has dwindled significantly since 2012, dropping by 73% to only 5,534 as of March 2025. To address this decline, the Home Office aims to simplify the recruitment process, retain existing special constables, and establish a task force led by senior policing officials.
These efforts are part of a comprehensive policing reform package, which includes reducing the number of police forces in England and Wales. The Home Secretary will gain new powers to intervene in underperforming forces and dismiss chief constables when necessary.
The proposed policing white paper also includes measures to enhance police vetting procedures, restrict recruits with violent convictions, and allocate more officers to street patrols. Additionally, every council ward will have a designated officer to strengthen neighborhood policing.