Mark Jacobs (Blue Heelers)
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television production |
| Founded | January 18, 1994 |
| Defunct | June 4, 2006 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
Blue Heelers is an Australian police drama television series that was broadcast on the Seven Network from 18 January 1994 through 4 June 2006. The show focused on the personal and professional lives of the residents of Mount Thomas, a fictional small town in Victoria, and the local police officers serving there. Below is a compilation of the primary and recurring cast members.
Adam Cooper
Adam Cooper, portrayed by Damian Walshe-Howling, made his first appearance on 6 September 1994.
Tom Croydon
Tom Croydon, enacted by John Wood, was introduced at the series' start on 18 January 1994.
Maggie Doyle
Maggie Doyle, played by Lisa McCune, also debuted on the initial airing date, 18 January 1994.
Amy Fox
Amy Fox, brought to life by Rachel Gordon, joined the series on 17 July 2004 during its eleventh season, following the bombing of the Mount Thomas Police Station. She was depicted as being in her early thirties, gentle-spoken, feminine, yet possessing a determined and uncompromising policing style. Her character combined sharp intellect with a desire for approval shaped by early life trauma. Initially partnered with Detective P. J. Hasham (Martin Sacks), their relationship developed from professional friction to a strong friendship. Amy’s background includes losing her parents in a car accident at age eight, enduring abuse from her uncle starting at twelve, and being expelled by her aunt at sixteen after becoming pregnant due to this abuse. In season twelve, she confronted her uncle, which resulted in his arrest. Amy continued working alongside P.J. until his transfer to Melbourne's Homicide Squad and later teamed up with Evan Jones (Ditch Davey) after his promotion to detective.
Tess Gallagher
Tess Gallagher, portrayed by Caroline Craig, was introduced on 24 May 2000.
Matt Graham
Matthew "Matt" Graham, played by Matthew Holmes, first appeared on 21 September 2005. A former Army peacekeeper deployed in East Timor, Matt’s rigid and uncompromising approach to law enforcement, combined with his quick temper, initially caused friction with his colleagues. Detective Amy Fox (Rachel Gordon) was particularly wary of him, especially following a murder accusation from which he was eventually cleared. A near-death experience during a drug raid exposed his more vulnerable side, gradually changing Amy’s opinion of him. Matt remained a dedicated member of the Mount Thomas police team until the series concluded.
P. J. Hasham
P. J. Hasham, portrayed by Martin Sacks, was part of the original cast appearing from 18 January 1994.
Mark Jacobs
Mark Jacobs, played by Geoff Morrell, joined the cast on 14 July 2004 after the destruction of the original Mount Thomas Police Station. As a seasoned officer in his mid-forties—steady, thoughtful, and ambitious—he was appointed Senior Sergeant by Inspector Falcon-Price to succeed Tom Croydon. Married to Penny and father to Freya, Mark eventually left the force following an incident where he accidentally struck a drug-impaired boy with his vehicle, provoking public backlash.
Evan Jones
Evan "Jonesy" Jones, portrayed by Ditch Davey, made his first appearance on 18 July 2001. He joined the force as a Probationary Constable driven by a desire to seek justice for his biological father’s death. Early in his career, Jonesy became involved in a contentious case but was ultimately exonerated when the actual perpetrator was identified. Coming from a family deeply rooted in law enforcement—including his half-brother Senior Detective Dylan Jones and his adoptive father Commander Reg Jones—he gained a reputation for his rebellious, 'cowboy' approach and frequent disputes with higher-ranking officers such as Senior Sergeant Tom Croydon and Sergeant Ben Stewart. His aggressive interrogation methods earned him the nickname "Mad Dog Jones." After completing detective training, he advanced to Detective Senior Constable and formed a partnership with Amy Fox.
Jonesy's personal relationships often complicated his professional life. He shared a passionate but ultimately unfulfilled romance with Sergeant Tess Gallagher, who left town due to complications during pregnancy. Later, he pursued Senior Constable Susie Raynor, even proposing marriage; however, their engagement dissolved amid complex romantic dynamics involving colleagues. By the series conclusion, Jonesy and Susie had managed to rebuild part of their friendship.
Alex Kirby
Alex Kirby, enacted by Charlie Clausen, was introduced on 23 February 2005. Starting as a leading senior constable, he earned a promotion to acting sergeant before the end of 2005. His son, Rory (played by Louis Corbett), was introduced in the final episode of Season 12.
Jack Lawson
Jack Lawson, brought to life by Rupert Reid, first appeared on 10 February 1999.
Dash McKinley
Dash McKinley, played by Tasma Walton, debuted on 18 June 1996.
Kelly O'Rourke
Kelly O'Rourke, portrayed by Samantha Tolj, joined the cast on 21 July 2004 following the Mount Thomas Station bombing. Introduced as a probationary constable, she was characterized as a confident and energetic 21-year-old graduate of the Police Academy. Her father, who had been a police constable and close associate of Tom Croydon, was killed in the line of duty during her childhood.
Jo Parrish
Jo Parrish, played by Jane Allsop, made her first appearance on 18 August 1999.
Roz Patterson
Roz Patterson (also known as McGregor), portrayed by Ann Burbrook, first appeared on 18 January 1994. She was married to Mount Thomas Police constable Wayne Patterson and moved from the city to Mount Thomas. Initially, Roz took on station cleaning responsibilities linked to her role as wife of the watch-house keeper—a position she resented due to its unpaid status and restrictions on her independence.
Roz attempted to start a mobile beauty business using a vehicle she bought after an unsuccessful home-based venture. However, multiple traffic violations resulted in her driver’s license being suspended, which forced her to cease operations. This strict enforcement stemmed from an officer’s personal experience with a fatal drunk-driving incident.
Subsequently, Roz secured employment as a clerical assistant at the police station. This role exposed her to the harsh realities faced by officers and placed strain on her marriage. During this time, she became emotionally involved with some clients and unlawfully accessed police files to assist one individual, leading to her termination.
Amid increasing stress—including fear for Wayne’s safety after responding to a burglary involving gunfire—Roz decided to leave Mount Thomas and return to the city, ending their marriage. She also appeared posthumously at Wayne’s funeral in Episode 97 (Unfinished Business).
Wayne Patterson
Wayne Patterson, portrayed by Grant Bowler, made his debut on 18 January 1994.[1]
Joss Peroni
Joss Peroni, brought to life by Danny Raco, first appeared on 21 July 2004 in the aftermath of the Mt Thomas Police Station bombing and the passing of Senior Constable Jo Parrish. Introduced as a probationary constable, he was depicted as a motivated officer keen on apprehending offenders. He underwent training alongside Kelly O'Rourke and shared a friendly competitive spirit with her.
Susie Raynor
Susie Raynor, enacted by Simone McAullay, entered the series on 24 September 2003. Initially coping with a paralyzed spouse who was later killed by Ben Stewart, Susie unintentionally shot Ben during a burglary, creating initial friction that eventually evolved into a brief romantic involvement. She was engaged to Evan Jones, but their engagement ended due to her affair with Alex Kirby. Elevated to Senior Constable in early 2005, she later acted as Sergeant before reverting to Senior Constable when the role was assigned to Kirby.
Chris Riley
Christine "Chris" Riley, portrayed by Julie Nihill, has been part of the cast since the series premiere on 18 January 1994.[1]
Nick Schultz
Nicholas "Nick" Schultz, played by William McInnes, also debuted on the series launch date, 18 January 1994.[1]
Ben Stewart
Benjamin "Ben" Stewart, represented by Paul Bishop, first appeared on 26 August 1998.[1]
Clive Adamson
Chief Superintendent Clive Adamson featured as a fictional character in the Australian police drama Blue Heelers. His appearances spanned from 1995 to 1996 as the regional Chief Superintendent stationed in Evanleigh, with occasional visits to Mount Thomas following significant events. Holding a rank above both the Heelers and the district inspector, he was notably unpopular with Ted Faulkner. Adamson was portrayed as a commanding yet grandfatherly figure. After a hiatus of five years, he returned subsequent to Inspector Falcon-Price’s kidnapping.
Portrayed by Terry Gill, 1995 – 1996, 2001
Sophie Ash
Sophie Ash appeared as a doctor at Mount Thomas Hospital during 2005 and 2006.
Portrayed by Stephanie Millar, 2005 – 2006
Gina Belfanti
Gina Belfanti served as an ambulance officer in Mount Thomas between 1995 and 1997. She shared accommodation with Maggie and had short-term relationships with Adam Cooper and P.J. Hasham. Belfanti’s character died from encephalitis in the opening episode of season four.
Portrayed by Rachel Blakely, 1995 – 1997
Josh Carmichael
Doctor Josh Carmichael was featured from 2002 until 2003.
Portrayed by Daniel Fredrikson, 2002 – 2003
Mel Carter
Mel Carter took over from Jasmine Farrah as a doctor, introduced amid a bus crash scenario. Initially perceived as impatient, her behavior mirrored the pressure of the crisis.
Portrayed by Suzi Dougherty, 1999 – 2002
Charlie Clarke
Charlie Clarke served as the plumber in Mount Thomas from 1996 until 2003, frequently creating additional complications for the police. He was once under suspicion regarding the death of his wife Cheryl and resided outside the town with her and their dog, Dylan.
Portrayed by Don Bridges, 1996 – 2003
Leila Clegg
Leila Clegg was an elderly patron who regularly visited the Imperial Pub and developed friendships with Nick Schultz and Tom Croydon. She took part in several police-related operations, including a notable drug raid.
Portrayed by Marie Trevor, 1996 – 2000
Ellis Corby
Ellis Corby appeared as a lawyer character in the Australian police drama Blue Heelers from 1995 to 2005, played by Adam May. Originally, he was introduced as an ambulance officer before transitioning into his legal role.
Portrayed by Adam May, 1997 – 2005
Marissa Craddock
Marissa Craddock was affiliated with the Salvation Army and was engaged to Ben; however, their engagement ended when Ben confessed he was not prepared for marriage.
Portrayed by Heidi Arena, 2003 – 2004
Anna Croydon
Anna Croydon was featured on Blue Heelers between 1996 and 2006. She experienced two marriages: first to an Indian man, and later to Brett Allcott, with whom she had two children.
Portrayed by Alexandra Sangster, 1996, 2005–2006
Nell Croydon
Nell Croydon, spouse of Mount Thomas officer Tom Croydon, was mentioned throughout the series until her death in season two following a fatal car crash that also claimed her daughter Susan’s life.
Portrayed by Leigh Morgan, 1994
Susan Croydon
Susan Croydon, daughter of Tom Croydon, appeared from 1994 to 2006. After surviving the accident that killed her mother, she pursued a career in teaching despite facing difficulties linked to her past.
Portrayed by Beth Buchanan, 1994 – 2006
Daniel Curtis
Daniel Curtis, Tom Croydon's older stepson, was present in the series from 2001 through 2004.
Portrayed by Kane McNay, 2001 – 2003 Portrayed by Abe Forsythe, 2004
Grace Curtis
Grace Curtis, who became Tom Croydon's second wife, appeared between 2001 and 2004. Her storyline concluded tragically when she was sexually assaulted and murdered during an incident at Mount Thomas Station.
Portrayed by Debra Lawrance, 2001 – 2004
Nelson Curtis
Nelson Curtis was a character on Blue Heelers from 2001 to 2004, serving as Tom's younger stepson following his marriage to Grace Curtis.
Portrayed by Darcy Bonser, 2001–2004
Paul Donald
Detective Sergeant Paul Donald featured on Blue Heelers from 1996 until 2004, played by Marcus Eyre. As a member of the Homicide Squad, he handled significant investigations including the murder case of Senior Constable Maggie Doyle. His character was portrayed as homosexual and typically appeared during major case storylines.
Portrayed by Marcus Eyre, 1996–2004
Celia Donald
Celia Donald worked as a real estate agent and held considerable influence within Mount Thomas from 1994 to 1997 on Blue Heelers. She was portrayed initially by Helen Trenos and later by Suzy Cato between 2000 and 2001. Her wide network in the community provided early awareness of important local events, often leading to controversy due to her sharing of information.
Portrayed by Helen Trenos, 1994–1997 and Suzy Cato, 2000–2001
Sally Downie
Sally Downie appeared as a lawyer on Blue Heelers between 1998 and 2000, with Catherine Wilkin in the role. Her storyline notably included a romantic involvement with Tom during the fifth season, which ultimately ended because of conflicts between their respective legal and policing professions.
Played by Catherine Wilkin, 1998–2000
Mick Doyle
Mick Doyle was a character featured in Blue Heelers from 1996 through 2000, serving within Victoria Police’s Ethical Standards Division (E.S.D.). Initially portrayed by David Field in 1995 and subsequently by Terry Serio from 1996 to 2000, Mick was the son of former Sergeant Pat Doyle and sibling to Maggie and Robbie Doyle. His storyline concluded tragically as his corruption led him to murder Maggie before Pat shot him dead.
Played by David Field, 1995, and Terry Serio, 1996–2000
Pat Doyle
Pat Doyle was a recurring figure on Blue Heelers from 1994 until 2000, portrayed by Dennis Miller. As a former Sergeant stationed at Mt Thomas alongside Tom Croydon, Pat was the father of Maggie, Robbie, and Mick Doyle—all of whom were former Victoria Police officers who had passed away. Upon uncovering Mick’s corrupt activities and involvement in Maggie’s death, Pat was imprisoned after shooting his son.
Played by Dennis Miller, 1994–2000
Robbie Doyle
Robbie Doyle appeared intermittently on Blue Heelers as a former police officer suspended due to substance abuse issues. His narrative mainly centered around his struggle with heroin addiction. He was featured from 1996 to 1998 and ultimately died after being shot while defending Maggie from an armed assailant in Widgeree.
Played by David Wenham, 1996, and Brett Climo, 1997–1998
Monica Draper
Inspector Monica Draper was present on Blue Heelers from 1995 until 2006. Starting her tenure with the Internal Investigation Division (IID), she later advanced to Senior Sergeant above Tom Croydon and eventually became Inspector at St Davids, succeeding Ted Faulkner. Draper was recognized for her blend of compassion and professionalism, maintaining a productive partnership with Croydon. Her background includes the discovery of her son Dean, whom she had placed for adoption at age sixteen.
Prior to the series timeline, Draper collaborated with P.J. within the gaming squad; her exposure of illicit activities there led to its closure and P.J.’s transfer to Mt Thomas.
Played by Peta Doodson, 1995–2006
* Registered nurse since 1972, Doodson also contributed as Blue Heelers' medical consultant.
Hilary Edmunds
Hilary Edmunds was an early recurring character and former romantic interest of P.J., appearing during the inaugural season in 1994.
Played by Jennifer Botica, 1994
Rose Egan
Senior Constable Rose Egan, enacted by Dale Stevens, made her debut on November 22, 1994. Stevens prepared for this role through consultations with active detectives. Rose was the second female officer stationed at Mount Thomas following Maggie Doyle and pursued a career as a trainee detective with aspirations toward becoming a CI.
Her introduction generated tension with Maggie Doyle, who had been overlooked for promotion in Rose’s favor. Despite enduring a difficult past marked by abuse, Rose emerged as a resilient character. After joining Mount Thomas to work alongside P.J. Hasham, she encountered hostility from Maggie and was subsequently transferred due to personnel constraints.
Played by Dale Stevens, 1994–[end date not specified]
Russell Falcon-Price
Russell Falcon-Price was a recurring figure on Blue Heelers from 1997 until 2006, played by Neil Pigot. Nicknamed 'Rusty,' he was generally disliked by his colleagues and aimed to climb the ranks by discrediting Tom Croydon. In 1999, he contemplated appointing Maggie Doyle as Sergeant. By 2003, Falcon-Price developed an interest in Jo Parrish; however, following a hostage crisis involving his children, their relationship dissolved. In the show's finale, he orchestrated the closure of Mount Thomas Station using fabricated evidence, though the station was eventually reopened.
Portrayed by Neil Pigot, 1997 – 2006
Jasmine Farah
Doctor Jasmine Farah joined the cast of Blue Heelers in 1999 as a medical practitioner at Mount Thomas hospital and was occasionally referred to as "The Persian Princess."
Portrayed by Sapidah Kian, 1999
Ted Faulkner
Inspector Edward 'Ted' Faulkner served as the district police inspector at St. David from 1994 to 1996, taking over from Inspector Murray. His approach to leadership was noticeably more compassionate compared to his successor, Russell Falcon-Price.
Portrayed by Nick Waters, 1994 – 1996
Brad Fingleton
Brad Fingleton appeared briefly in late 2003 as the husband of Constable Suzie Raynor and a former officer adapting to life confined to a wheelchair. In the Season 10 finale, after stealing Suzie’s service weapon and accusing her of unfaithfulness, Brad was fatally shot by Acting Sergeant Ben Stewart when he posed a threat to Suzie.
Portrayed by Matt Passmore, 2003
Clancy Freeman
Clancy (Joey) Freeman was a recurring character portrayed as a young man with intellectual disabilities under Tom Croydon’s care. Following his mother’s passing, Tom facilitated turning Clancy’s home into a group residence staffed with live-in carers. Clancy had a girlfriend and a child but faced challenges in parenting, resulting in foster care placements supported by Tom. Both Clancy and Jo Parrish were victims of the Mount Thomas Station bombing in 2004.
Portrayed by Michael Isaacs, 1995 – 2004
Hayley Fulton
Hayley Fulton was a fictional character featured in the Australian police drama Blue Heelers. She was depicted as an abused child who was temporarily cared for by Tess before returning to her biological family.
Portrayed by Emily Browning, 2000 – 2002
Ian Goss
Senior Constable Ian Goss, affectionately called Gossie, was inspired by an actual rural police officer. Introduced during Season 8 (2001), Gossie was responsible for maintaining order single-handedly at the Widgeree station. In Season 10 (2003), after failing to prevent the death of a young French filmmaker, Gossie left the police force. He reappeared in Season 13 (2006) as a shopkeeper harboring resentment toward Tom Croydon.
The real Ian Goss served approximately two decades at Riddells Creek in Victoria and was regarded as a quintessential country policeman. His character's introduction was facilitated through Victoria Police media efforts. Scenes depicting Widgeree Police Station were filmed in Clarkefield, Victoria, near Riddells Creek.
Portrayed by Roy Billing, 2001 – 2003, 2006
Peter Grantham
Peter Grantham served as a Detective Sergeant at St Davids and was P.J.'s superior during the initial season. He was dismissed due to corruption charges but made a comeback in season two, working as a bank security manager following a robbery that implicated P.J. Maggie and Pat uncovered Grantham's plot, preventing his attempt at revenge.
Portrayed by David Glazebrook, 1994 – 1995
Zoe Hamilton
Zoe Hamilton practiced medicine at Mount Thomas Hospital between 1995 and 1998. She married Sergeant Nick Schultz and relocated to Melbourne for advanced studies, where Nick assumed a sergeant position at Footscray police station.
Portrayed by Karen Davitt*, 1995 – 1998
* Karen Davitt initially appeared as Nurse Karen in the first season before taking on the role of Dr. Hamilton in season two.
Alan Hayes
Alan Hayes, known by the nickname Compo, was a recurring figure on the Australian police drama Blue Heelers. While often involved in schemes to obtain compensation or money, he also demonstrated community commitment by organizing a fundraiser for the CFA, even as he operated an SP book.
Portrayed by Tony Rickards, 1995–2003
Rory Hayes
Rory Hayes featured in the concluding seasons of Blue Heelers as a nine-year-old boy searching for his father. Initially bonded with Jonsey and harboring resentment towards Alex Kirby, Rory’s narrative explored his vulnerability and evolving relationship with Alex after learning he was his father.
Portrayed by Louis Corbett of McKinnon Secondary College, 2005–2006
Siobhan Kennedy
Siobhan Kennedy was a recurring character on Blue Heelers, identifying herself as a witch who provided consultation on paranormal cases. She maintained amicable relations with the Heelers, particularly Ben Stewart, appearing during 1996–1997 and again from 2000–2001.
Portrayed by Rosalind Hammond (1996–1997) and Marie-Louise Walker (2000–2001)
Harriet Keppell
Harriet Keppell was a journalist who frequently crossed paths with police investigations in Blue Heelers. She appeared regularly from 1995 through 1996.
Portrayed by Beverly Evans, 1995–1996
Tibor Kerenyi
Dr. Tibor Kerenyi, the local veterinarian, assisted the police on animal-related cases during his recurring appearances from 1995 until 2001.
Portrayed by Colin Duckworth, 1995–2001
Len
Len was a fictional character on Blue Heelers, acting as the bartender at Mount Thomas' Imperial Pub.
Portrayed by Axl Taylor, 1994–2002
Beth McKinley
Beth McKinley joined Blue Heelers in 1996 as the mother of Probationary Constable Dash McKinley. A widow raising nine children, Beth was well-regarded and deeply rooted in the Mount Thomas community, often offering valuable local knowledge despite occasional concerns about gossip at the station. She actively participated in women's groups and earned respect throughout town. Her death in a car accident during season six led Dash to reevaluate her career path, eventually resulting in her resignation.
Portrayed by Pauline Terry-Bietz, 1996–1999
Charlie McKinley
Charlie McKinley was a recurring figure and the elder sibling of Dash McKinley. He had a young daughter in primary school, who was frequently noted for her forthright personality, reminiscent of Dash.
Played by Kevin Harrington, 1997–1999, 2003
David Murray
David Murray joined Blue Heelers in its later seasons as a legal professional who entered into a relationship with Kelly; they began living together during season 13.
Portrayed by Joshua Lawson, 2006
Sean Neale
Detective Constable Sean Neale, portrayed by Richard Huggett, made his first appearance on 16 August 1994. Stationed at the district headquarters in St Davids, he contributed to a rape case investigation in Mount Thomas and developed a romantic connection with Maggie Doyle (Lisa McCune). Known for his analytical and systematic approach, Sean departed after allegations of corruption surfaced, relocating to Melbourne to start afresh.
Stacey Norse
Stacey Norse was introduced in 1997 as the wife of Adam Cooper following her pregnancy with a child he believed was his; unfortunately, she suffered a miscarriage. She left within the same year after reconnecting with an ex-boyfriend and conspiring to murder Adam for insurance benefits. Their plot was ultimately exposed, leading to their arrest.
Portrayed by Kate Atkinson, 1997
Sasha Peters
Sasha Peters appeared as a fictional character in the Australian police series Blue Heelers. She was initially introduced as the spouse of Nick's friend; her life took a tragic turn when her husband died during a high-speed pursuit. Sasha developed a close bond with Nick, but their relationship deteriorated after her brother was apprehended by the Heelers.
Played by Jane Longhurst, 1995
Merv Poole
Merv Poole featured as a fictional character on Blue Heelers.
Portrayed by Peter Aanensen, 1997 – 2004
Keith Purvis
Keith Purvis was depicted as a fictional character in Blue Heelers. A fervently patriotic farmer, he often caused disturbances within the community and was known for carrying a firearm despite having his license revoked.
Played by Reg Evans, 1995 – 1999
"Richo"
Richo appeared as a fictional character on Blue Heelers.
Portrayed by Stuart Baker, 1995 – 2004
Tim Ryan
Tim Ryan was part of the Blue Heelers cast between 1998 and 1999.
Played by Grant Piro, 1998 – 1999
Robyn Taylor
Senior Constable Robyn Taylor, enacted by Belinda McClory, first appeared on 5 May 1999. Assigned to the Accident Investigation Squad, she relocated with her family to Mount Thomas with plans to establish a vineyard. She provided support during Maggie Doyle's witness protection phase but later returned to Melbourne after her husband became involved in significant fraud allegations.
Tony Timms
Tony Timms, portrayed by Jeremy Kewley from 1997 through 2005, served as Mount Thomas' often problematic journalist for the Mount Thomas Gazette, frequently creating challenges for local law enforcement officers.
Jack Woodley
Senior Detective Jack Woodley, brought to life by Frankie J. Holden, made his first appearance on 30 April 1996. Transferring from Melbourne's Armed Robbery Squad, Woodley took over the role left vacant by the death of Wayne Patterson (Grant Bowler). His entry into the Mount Thomas station was unexpected, as the team anticipated a young probationary officer rather than an experienced detective from the city. Woodley, a family man with two children, was motivated by a desire for a more peaceful rural lifestyle.
In his initial investigation alongside P. J. Hasham (Martin Sacks), they looked into the burglary and assault involving a police widow. To speed up the process, Woodley planted evidence against the primary suspect, which initially escaped notice. Subsequently, he tampered with evidence in a murder case involving a shearer, which aroused PJ's doubts. Upon further inquiry, PJ uncovered Woodley's unethical behavior and confronted the difficult choice of whether to report him—potentially jeopardizing the case being prosecuted by Maggie Doyle (Lisa McCune)—or to stay silent. Ultimately, PJ decided to expose the truth, leading to Woodley's termination from the police force.