ESSEX Police hasn't ruled out following the Thames Valley force's controversial example and hiring 16-year-olds as police community support officers (PCSOs).
But Essex Police Authority chairman Robert Chambers says he can't see it happening in the foreseeable future.
He explained: "The point is Essex Police is very keen on employing younger people.
"We run a cadet scheme and are one of the few forces which does. However, our cadets are 17 and are not allowed on operational duty until they are 18.
"With regard to 16-year-old PCSOs, we will be looking at this very carefully. It is not being ruled out completely but I think there are far better things to pioneer."
Essex currently one of the biggest teams of PCSOs in the UK, but all are at least 18.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article