Steve Reynolds joined Essex Police Cadets in 1971, a youthful aspirant with dreams of serving his community and upholding justice. The experience was transformative, igniting a passion that would fuel his career for decades. In September 1974, he stepped into the role of a regular constable, ready to take on the challenges of policing.

By 1976, Steve's diligence paid off when he took and passed his Sergeants exam. Just months later, he faced the inspectors exam, his heart pounding as he tackled yet another hurdle. With remarkable determination, he emerged victorious in both examinations, becoming a qualified sergeant and inspector before he even turned 22. This achievement was not just a personal milestone; it was a testament to Steve’s unwavering commitment and exceptional capabilities.

Steve's first posting in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) was at Rayleigh, a place where he would encounter a group of superb characters—experienced detectives who were consummate professionals. He fondly remembers his initiation into the CID, the adrenaline rush of dealing with his first suspect, and the camaraderie that flourished amidst the seriousness of their work. In May 1980, he was promoted to a substantive Detective Sergeant and assigned to South Ockendon. There, he was given collar number 321, a digit that would earn him the affectionate nickname "Dusty." Under the mentorship of DCI Fred Stanard, Steve found himself in an environment where humor was as sharp as the investigations they pursued.

The opportunity to further his career arose when Peter Blyth, the Divisional Commander, encouraged Steve to apply for a uniform inspector’s role at Grays. With a mix of excitement and trepidation, he submitted his application, and after a rigorous selection process, he was thrilled to find out he was successful. His tenure as an Inspector lasted a year, but it laid the groundwork for his next significant challenge: joining C11 at Scotland Yard in 1986. There, Steve became part of a diverse team from across the region, working together to develop crucial intelligence that would be funneled to enforcement teams.

After two intense years, he returned to Essex, filled with pride at having the opportunity to serve as a Detective Inspector in his hometown of Southend, where he could give back to the community that had raised him.

In a harrowing twist of fate, Steve was called to investigate a missing persons inquiry in the Philippines involving a woman named China Rose Simms. The case was shrouded in mystery, enveloping him in a world of uncertainty, as neither she nor her husband had ever been located.

The late 90s brought about a poignant moment when Steve had the rare opportunity to meet Jill Dando, a beloved BBC anchor. He recalls their interactions vividly, a mixture of admiration and respect shared over aspirations and plans for the future—plans that were tragically cut short by her untimely murder.

One of the most challenging cases he faced was the murder of Chris Castle, an event that would test his resolve as the Senior Investigating Officer (SIO). The crime was committed by members of the extreme right-wing group Combat 18, a grim reflection of the societal issues that plagued that era.

Drawing from his extensive experience, Steve penned a book titled "The Met On Trial," which explores the investigation following the fatal shooting of Jean Charles De Menezes. In this work, he reflects on a career marked by both triumphs and tragedies, illuminating the complexities of policing in a modern society. Through storytelling, he aims to provide insight into the human experiences behind the badge, a narrative that resonates not just with fellow officers but with anyone who has grappled with the moral dilemmas of justice and accountability.

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