TRAFFIC CASES

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22461, 3 July 1936, Page 12

TRAFFIC CASES

INQUIRIES BY POLICE

SPECIAL MEN ASSIGNED

LESS WORK FOR DETECTIVES

A now system of police* inquiry into traffic accidents lias been introduced in Auckland. For some time it lias been the specific duty of the detective branch to lake charge of inquiries into major accidents, but three constables now have been specially assigned to the work.

Fver-increasing demands are. being made on detectives in Auckland, and it is considered that inquiry into such matters as accidents is taking valuable time which could well bo applied to investigating particular matters for which the detectives have the necessary specialised knowledge. It was a practice some years ago for detectives to inquire into major accidents, but the task of assembling evidence gradually became one for the uniform branch. A reversion to the former system was adopted later, but it.has now been decided that inquiries for possible witnesses, the taking of statements and other manifold duties which a street accident often involves, will bo a matter for three members of the uniform branch who will specialise in this activity.

ft was stated yesterday that the men were, of course, skilled car drivers, with a wide technical knowledge, to enable expert testing of vehicles involved in accidents. "In view of the large increase in fatalities, the police are paying close attention to street accidents," said an official, "and men with specialised knowledge in charge of inquiries will have the greater confidence of the public." It was a distinct step toward the specialisation of the force, and would relieve detectives of a burdensome duty, giving them time to concentrate more activity on investigation of crime.