IN THE NEWS: This summary curates the key policing-related research that's been published online in the last week, with links to the original journal articles, and selected abstracts - plus a short guide outlining how serving police officers and staff can get access, free, to many of the articles listed through the National Police Library. You do not need to be a member of the College to access its library.

Advertisement Feature: An entire case can hinge on the integrity of the evidence collected at the scene of a crime. Simple to use, cost effective Security Products make good evidence management more likely.

Analysis: The grooming of children is on the rise across England and Wales. Policing Insight Contributor Andrew Staniforth discusses this disturbing trend and considers how artificial intelligence is leading the fight against online grooming.

Analysis: The election is over, but aside from the promised 20,000 additional officers, what else can we expect from the new Government? Former Assistant Chief Constable and now CoPaCC Director Ian Wiggett examines what the next five years may hold for the police service.

Opinion: Deloitte Public Safety and Justice Lead for the Middle East Andrew Morley argues that the emergency services have an important role to play in working with other agencies in delivering public safety.

Analysis: Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures reveal areas of the North are becoming violent crime hot spots. Policing Insight Contributor Andrew Staniforth argues the rise cannot be entirely attributed to 'county lines' and a major rethink is needed on how forces tackle violent crime locally.

OPINION: What a difference a year makes! Policing Insight Publisher Bernard Rix reflects on the year in which UK policing started to feel loved again by its political masters and looks forward to a more confident 2020.

World Class Policing Awards: A groundbreaking Australian Police medical initiative which equips officers to save lives and increase survival rates for those affected by traumatic injury was named a winner at the recent inaugural World Class Policing Awards sponsored by Accenture in London. In the second of 12 articles focusing on the award winning nominations, Keith Potter takes a closer look at the Tactical First Aid Project (TFAP).

OPINION: First introduced in 1937, 999 is the world’s oldest emergency telephone service. It has undoubtedly saved many thousands of lives, but in an age where there are other forms of instant communication Carbyne's UK Vice President for Business Development Tim Ellis argues it's time for a step change in 999 capability.

Opinion: Whilst British policing has given much to the world, former chief police officer Paul Kennedy argues that it is now time for the UK to adopt 'Next Generation 999' that is already improving officer safety, as well as efficiency and effectiveness, in forces across the globe.

analysis: With ransomware attacks on the rise, Policing Insight contributor Andrew Staniforth examines how the cyber threat is expected to evolve in 2020 and how police and partner agencies face increasing challenges in protecting their data from both cyber criminals and their own staff.

Obituary: The funeral of Police, Crime and Victims’ Commissioner for Durham Ron Hogg will be held this week (7 January). Ron was an outstanding public servant who made a huge contribution to policing, firstly as a police officer and, latterly, as Police, Crime and Victims’ Commissioner for Durham. His former colleague Ben Twomey shares the valuable lessons he learnt from working with Ron and the legacy he leaves behind.

INSIGHT: NPCC Drug Threat Lead Detective Chief Superintendent Mark Lay is also President of the Drug Expert Witness & Valuation Association (DEWVA). The following is adapted from Det Ch Supt Lay’s opening address at last year’s DEWVA conference where he outlined the current drug threat and the role expert witnesses play in tackling it.

Opinion: From ending duplication to improving wellbeing, Simon Hall, CEO of Coeus Software, offers ten ways in which forces can make better use of mobile technology in 2020.

NEWS: The New Year Honours lists for 2020 recognise the achievements and service of extraordinary people across the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. Many congratulations to those in and associated with policing who have been recognised this year...

Opinion: The hacking of the MPS's social media account by two teenagers has been widely reported in the UK. Policing Insight contributor Andrew Staniforth examines this growing threat and the latest innovations collaboratively developed to combat cyber crime.

Recruitment Advertisement: Bedfordshire Police and Crime Panel (PCP) intends to add two additional Co-opted Independent Members to further enhance its capabilities. Applications are invited from those with experience working within the Police or Probation services, or with experience in Accountancy, Estates or Public Scrutiny or from anybody else who believes they have something to offer the PCP.

insight: With all the results of all 45 fire and rescue services inspections now in, Catherine Levin considers how those services under Police, Fire and Crime Commissioners (PFCCs) have done and if those aspiring to become PFCCs may get a boost from the findings. It’s a mixed picture to say the least.

Opinion: Bedfordshire Police Stop and Search Panel has been highlighted as one of the most effective in the country. Panel Chair Montell Neufville explains the importance of being open and transparent with both local communities and police officers.

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS: Our Publisher, Bernard Rix, reflects on Policing Insight's last twelve months, sets out our Christmas and New Year schedule, and takes a look on what we're planning for 2020...