Tim Ryan (Blue Heelers)
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television, Entertainment |
| Founded | January 18, 1994 |
| Fate | Ended |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Products | Television drama series |
Blue Heelers is an Australian police drama television series that was broadcast on the Seven Network from 18 January 1994 until 4 June 2006. The show focused on the personal lives and interactions of the inhabitants of Mount Thomas, a fictional small town in Victoria, alongside the activities of its local police department. Below is a compilation of all principal and recurring/semi-regular cast members featured throughout the series.
Adam Cooper
Adam Cooper, portrayed by Damian Walshe-Howling, made his debut on 6 September 1994.
Tom Croydon
Tom Croydon, enacted by John Wood, first appeared on 18 January 1994.
Maggie Doyle
Maggie Doyle, played by Lisa McCune, also began her role on 18 January 1994.
Amy Fox
Amy Fox, brought to life by Rachel Gordon, joined the cast on 17 July 2004 during the eleventh season, following the bombing incident at the Mount Thomas Police Station. Described as being in her early thirties, she combines a gentle demeanor with a resolute and uncompromising policing approach. Amy is intelligent but emotionally influenced by traumatic events from her childhood. Initially partnered with Detective P. J. Hasham (Martin Sacks), their relationship transitioned from initial friction to a strong friendship. Her backstory reveals that she survived abuse inflicted by her uncle after losing her parents; this storyline culminated in his arrest during the twelfth season. Amy continued collaborating with P.J. until his reassignment to Melbourne's Homicide Squad and was subsequently teamed with Evan Jones (Ditch Davey) following 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, entered the series on 21 September 2005. A former Army peacekeeper in East Timor, Matt carries deep emotional wounds from his military service, which shaped his strict and uncompromising law enforcement style. His stern demeanor and quick temper initially caused friction with colleagues in Mount Thomas. Detective Amy Fox (Rachel Gordon) was initially wary of him, especially after he faced murder accusations, though he was ultimately cleared of all charges. Their professional relationship deepened following a near-death experience during a drug operation, exposing their shared vulnerabilities. Matt remained a committed member of the team until the series concluded.
P. J. Hasham
P. J. Hasham, portrayed by Martin Sacks, first appeared on 18 January 1994.
Mark Jacobs
Mark Jacobs, played by Geoff Morrell, joined the show on 14 July 2004 after the bombing of the original Mount Thomas Police Station. Presented as a dependable and career-driven officer in his mid-forties, Mark was appointed Senior Sergeant by Inspector Falcon-Price to succeed Tom Croydon. He is married to Penny and has a daughter named Freya. Mark exited the police force after being involved in a fatal accident caused by an intoxicated youth, which provoked public outrage in Widjeree.
Evan Jones
Evan "Jonesy" Jones, portrayed by Ditch Davey, made his first appearance on 18 July 2001. Entering the police force in his late twenties with the goal of avenging the death of his biological father, Sam Bridges, Jonesy initially became a suspect before being exonerated. He hailed from a family deeply rooted in law enforcement, including his half-brother, Senior Detective Dylan Jones, and his adoptive father, Commander Reg Jones. Known for his rebellious attitude and frequent disputes with higher-ranking officers such as Senior Sergeant Tom Croydon and Sergeant Ben Stewart, he earned the nickname "Mad Dog Jones" due to his forceful interrogation methods. Over time, he progressed to Senior Constable and then Detective Senior Constable, eventually partnering with Detective Senior Constable Amy Fox following his detective training.
Jonesy's personal life was marked by turmoil, notably through a passionate yet complicated relationship with Sergeant Tess Gallagher, which ended when Tess left town during her pregnancy. Later, he became engaged to Senior Constable Susie Raynor, but their relationship faltered amid romantic entanglements involving other colleagues. By the series conclusion, Jonesy and Susie had partially restored their friendship.
Alex Kirby
Alex Kirby, brought to life by Charlie Clausen, first appeared on 23 February 2005. Starting as a senior constable, he was elevated to acting sergeant by the end of 2005. His son Rory (portrayed by Louis Corbett) was introduced in the final episode of Season 12.
Jack Lawson
Jack Lawson, played by Rupert Reid, debuted on 10 February 1999.
Dash McKinley
Dash McKinley, portrayed by Tasma Walton, entered the series on 18 June 1996.
Kelly O'Rourke
Kelly O'Rourke, enacted by Samantha Tolj, joined the cast on 21 July 2004 following the Mount Thomas Station bombing. Introduced as a probationary constable, she was depicted as an ambitious and self-assured 21-year-old graduate of the police academy. Her background included a father who served as a police constable and family ties to Tom Croydon (John Wood), with her father having been killed in the line of duty during her youth.
Jo Parrish
Jo Parrish, portrayed by Jane Allsop, made her first appearance on 18 August 1999.
Roz Patterson
Roz Patterson (also known as McGregor), played by Ann Burbrook, debuted on 18 January 1994. She was married to Mount Thomas Police constable Wayne Patterson and relocated from the city to live in police housing. Initially tasked with cleaning duties at the station as the watch-house keeper’s wife—a role she resented due to its unpaid nature and limitations—Roz sought financial independence through entrepreneurial efforts.
She attempted to establish a mobile beauty business operating from the residence but faced setbacks after receiving a speeding ticket that resulted in her license suspension, forcing her to abandon the venture. Subsequently, Roz obtained a clerical assistant role at Mount Thomas police station, which placed strain on her marriage but provided her with closer exposure to police operations.
Her employment ended when she illegally accessed police files to aid a struggling mother, leading to her dismissal. The mounting pressures culminated in Roz deciding to leave Mount Thomas and end her marriage after fearing for Wayne’s safety during a burglary callout. She later returned for Wayne’s funeral in Episode 97 (Unfinished Business) to bring closure to their storyline.
Wayne Patterson
Wayne Patterson, brought to life by Grant Bowler, made his initial appearance on 18 January 1994.[1]
Joss Peroni
Joss Peroni, portrayed by Danny Raco, entered the series 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 is depicted as a motivated officer keen on apprehending offenders. Having trained alongside Kelly O'Rourke, he shares a friendly competitive dynamic with her.
Susie Raynor
Susie Raynor, enacted by Simone McAullay, first appeared on 24 September 2003. She initially struggled with her paralyzed husband, who was later killed by Ben Stewart. During a burglary, Susie inadvertently shot Ben, which caused friction between them. They briefly dated before she chose to end their relationship. Susie was engaged to Evan Jones, but the engagement ended after she had an affair with his close friend Alex Kirby. Early in 2005, she was promoted to Senior Constable and briefly acted as Sergeant before being reassigned due to rank protocols.
Chris Riley
Christine "Chris" Riley, played by Julie Nihill, first appeared on 18 January 1994.[1]
Nick Schultz
Nicholas "Nick" Schultz, portrayed by William McInnes, debuted on 18 January 1994.[1]
Ben Stewart
Benjamin "Ben" Stewart, brought to screen by Paul Bishop, made his first appearance on 26 August 1998.[1]
Clive Adamson
Chief Superintendent Clive Adamson is a fictional figure from the Australian police drama Blue Heelers. He featured between 1995 and 1996 as the regional Chief Superintendent based in Evanleigh and occasionally visited Mount Thomas following significant events. Holding the rank of chief superintendent, he outranked both the Heelers and the district inspector, which caused friction with Ted Faulkner. Adamson is portrayed as a robust, grandfatherly yet authoritative leader. After a five-year hiatus, he returned following Inspector Falcon-Price's kidnapping.
Played by Terry Gill, 1995–1996, 2001
Sophie Ash
Sophie Ash is a fictional medical professional at Mount Thomas Hospital in Blue Heelers, appearing during 2005 and 2006.
Portrayed by Stephanie Millar, 2005–2006
Gina Belfanti
Gina Belfanti is a fictional ambulance officer in Mount Thomas on Blue Heelers. She resided with Maggie and joined the Heelers in 1995. Belfanti remained until her death from encephalitis in the season 4 premiere. She had a one-night encounter with Adam Cooper and was subsequently raped that same night. Belfanti also briefly dated P.J. Hasham before realizing his affections for Maggie.
Portrayed by Rachel Blakely, 1995–1997
Josh Carmichael
Doctor Josh Carmichael appeared in Blue Heelers from 2002 through 2003.
Portrayed by Daniel Fredrikson, 2002–2003
Mel Carter
Mel Carter joined the cast of Blue Heelers as a medical professional, taking over from Jasmine Farrah. Her introduction occurred in season 6's episode "Under Fire," where she initially displayed impatience due to the pressure of handling a bus accident scenario.
Played by Suzi Dougherty, 1999–2002
Charlie Clarke
Charlie Clarke served as the local plumber in Mount Thomas on Blue Heelers, frequently creating additional challenges for the police force. At one point, he was under suspicion for the alleged murder of his wife Cheryl, whom he humorously called "the minister for war." He resided outside town with his spouse and their dog Dylan.
Played by Don Bridges, 1996–2003
Leila Clegg
Leila Clegg was an elderly patron regularly seen at the Imperial Pub in Blue Heelers. She developed friendships with Nick Schultz and Tommy Croydon and actively took part in police efforts, such as assisting in a drug raid.
Played by Marie Trevor, 1996–2000
Ellis Corby
Ellis Corby appeared as a lawyer within the Australian police drama Blue Heelers from 1995 to 2005. Initially introduced as an ambulance officer, the character was portrayed by Adam May.
Played by Adam May, 1997–2005
Marissa Craddock
Marissa Craddock featured as a Salvation Army member engaged to Ben; however, their engagement ended after Ben admitted he was not prepared for marriage.
Played by Heidi Arena, 2003–2004
Anna Croydon
Anna Croydon was a recurring figure on Blue Heelers between 1996 and 2006. She experienced two marriages, including one to Brett Allcott from 1996 onward, and they share two children.
Played by Alexandra Sangster, 1996, 2005–2006
Nell Croydon
Nell Croydon, spouse of Mount Thomas’ officer-in-charge Tom Croydon, was a recurring but unseen character who tragically died in season two following a fatal car crash that also involved their daughter Susan.
Played by Leigh Morgan, 1994
Susan Croydon
Susan Croydon, daughter of Tom Croydon, made her first appearance in the series premiere and later pursued a career in teaching after overcoming difficulties related to her past.
Played by Beth Buchanan, 1994–2006
Daniel Curtis
Daniel Curtis was Tom Croydon's older stepson from his marriage to Grace Curtis, appearing on the show between 2001 and 2004.
Played by Kane McNay, 2001–2003 Played by Abe Forsythe, 2004
Grace Curtis
Grace Curtis was Tom Croydon's second wife, featured from 2001 until 2004. Her storyline ended tragically when she was raped and murdered during an assault on Mount Thomas Station.
Played by Debra Lawrance, 2001–2004
Nelson Curtis
Nelson Curtis appeared as a character on Blue Heelers from 2001 to 2004. He was the younger of Tom's two stepsons following his marriage to Grace Curtis.
Played by Darcy Bonser, 2001–2004
Paul Donald
Detective Sergeant Paul Donald was featured on Blue Heelers from 1996 through 2004, portrayed by Marcus Eyre. As part of the Homicide Squad, he handled significant cases including the investigation into Senior Constable Maggie Doyle’s murder, during which he suspected P.J. He typically appeared for high-profile investigations and was characterized as homosexual.
Played by Marcus Eyre, 1996–2004
Celia Donald
Celia Donald served as a prominent real estate agent in Mount Thomas from 1994 until 1997, portrayed by Helen Trenos, with Suzy Cato taking on the role in 2000 and 2001. Distinguished by her elegance and strong ties to community groups such as the Racing Club, Celia frequently gained early insights into significant town initiatives and projects, which she leveraged to shape local affairs.
Portrayed by Helen Trenos, 1994 – 1997 and Suzy Cato, 2000 – 2001
Sally Downie
Sally Downie appeared as a legal professional on Blue Heelers between 1998 and 2000, played by Catherine Wilkin. During Season 5, she briefly became involved romantically with Tom, illustrating the nuanced interactions between the legal field and law enforcement.
Portrayed by Catherine Wilkin, 1998 – 2000
Mick Doyle
Mick Doyle was featured recurrently from 1996 through 2000 as a member of Victoria Police’s Ethical Standards Division (E.S.D.). He was the son of former Sergeant Pat Doyle and sibling to Maggie and Robbie Doyle. Mick’s character arc included involvement in corrupt activities and the murder of Maggie, culminating in his own death at the hands of Pat after his offenses were exposed.
Portrayed by David Field, 1995, and Terry Serio, 1996 – 2000
Pat Doyle
Pat Doyle appeared from 1994 to 2000 as a retired Sergeant who served alongside Tom Croydon at Mt Thomas. He was the father of Maggie, Robbie, and Mick—all police officers who died during the series. After uncovering Mick’s corruption and his role in Maggie’s death, Pat was incarcerated for killing his son.
Portrayed by Dennis Miller, 1994 – 2000
Robbie Doyle
Robbie Doyle was a recurring figure on Blue Heelers from 1996 to 1998. A former police officer suspended due to heroin addiction, his storyline centered on battling substance abuse. Ultimately, he sacrificed his life when he was fatally shot defending Maggie from an armed assailant in Widgeree.
Portrayed by David Wenham (1996) and Brett Climo (1997–1998)
Monica Draper
Inspector Monica Draper featured on Blue Heelers from 1995 until 2006. Beginning her tenure with the Internal Investigation Division (IID), she advanced to Senior Sergeant above Tom Croydon before being promoted to Inspector at St Davids, succeeding Ted Faulkner. Draper was recognized for combining professionalism with compassion while maintaining a strong partnership with Croydon. Her backstory reveals that she gave up her son Dean for adoption when she was sixteen.
Prior to the series timeline, Draper and P.J. had worked together in the gaming squad; her exposure of illegal conduct there resulted in the squad's disbandment and P.J.’s reassignment to Mt Thomas.
Portrayed by Peta Doodson, 1995–2006 * Doodson, a registered nurse since 1972, also fulfilled the role of medical adviser for Blue Heelers.
Hilary Edmunds
Hilary Edmunds appeared as a guest character during Blue Heelers’’ first season in 1994, known as a former romantic interest of P.J.
Portrayed by Jennifer Botica, 1994
Rose Egan
Senior Constable Rose Egan, brought to life by Dale Stevens, made her first appearance on 22 November 1994. Stevens, who had predominantly portrayed antagonistic roles before, prepared for this part by visiting a police station and consulting with detectives. Rose was the second female officer to serve at Mount Thomas following Maggie Doyle and later advanced to become a detective trainee.
Her promotion over Maggie Doyle to a detective role introduced friction between the two, fueling a competitive dynamic. Despite enduring a difficult history marked by abuse, Rose is depicted as both strong and accomplished. She collaborated with P.J. Hasham on detective assignments prior to transferring due to limited personnel at Mount Thomas.
Portrayed by Dale Stevens, 1994–[end date unspecified]
F
Russell Falcon-Price
Russell Falcon-Price was a recurring figure on Blue Heelers from 1997 through 2006, portrayed by Neil Pigot. Nicknamed 'Rusty,' he was widely disliked among the officers and sought career advancement by undermining colleagues, particularly targeting Tom Croydon. In 1999, he intended to promote Maggie Doyle to Sergeant. By 2003, he expressed an interest in Jo Parrish, while Ben Stewart engaged in an affair with Falcon-Price’s spouse. Following a hostage crisis involving Falcon-Price’s children, Ben discontinued his pursuit of Jo. In the series finale, Falcon-Price succeeded in shutting down Mount Thomas Station; however, it reopened after his evidence was discredited.
Portrayed by Neil Pigot, 1997–2006
Jasmine Farah
Doctor Jasmine Farah entered the Blue Heelers cast in 1999 as a physician 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 from 1994 to 1996 as the district police inspector at St. David’s, taking over from Inspector Murray. His leadership approach was notably more gentle and understated compared to his successor, Russell Falcon-Price.
Portrayed by Nick Waters, 1994–1996
Brad Fingleton
Brad Fingleton appeared in late 2003 as the husband of Constable Suzie Raynor and a former officer adapting to life in a wheelchair. In the Season 10 finale "Sexual Healing Part 2," Brad took Suzie’s firearm and, after accusing her of being unfaithful, compelled Acting Sergeant Stewart to shoot him.
Portrayed by Matt Passmore, 2003
Clancy Freeman
Clancy (Joey) Freeman was a recurring character depicted as a young man with intellectual disabilities under the care of Tom Croydon. After the death of his mother, Tom arranged for Clancy’s residence to become a group home with live-in support. Clancy became a father but encountered difficulties with parenting that resulted in foster care intervention. Both Clancy and Jo Parrish perished in 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 a neglected child taken into care by Tess before eventually being reunited with her family.
Portrayed by Emily Browning, 2000–2002
G
Ian Goss
Senior Constable Ian Goss, affectionately called Gossie, was a fictional character inspired by an actual rural police officer. Introduced in Season 8 (2001), he was responsible for managing the solitary police station in Widgeree, overseeing law enforcement in the peaceful community. In Season 10 (2003), Gossie became involved in a tragic event resulting in the death of a young French filmmaker, which had significant repercussions on his policing career. He reappeared in Season 13 (2006) as a shopkeeper harboring resentment towards Tom Croydon.
The real Ian Goss served as a Senior Constable in Riddells Creek, Victoria, for nearly two decades and was regarded as a quintessential 'country copper'. His character was introduced through the efforts of Victoria Police Media Advisor Sergeant David O'Connor. Scenes set at Widgeree Police Station were filmed in Clarkefield, near Riddells Creek, a location notable for its historic hotel.
Portrayed by Roy Billing, 2001–2003, 2006
Peter Grantham
Peter Grantham held the position of Detective Sergeant at St Davids and acted as P.J.’s superior during the early seasons. After being dismissed for corruption, he resurfaced as a bank security manager following a robbery that implicated P.J. Maggie and Pat uncovered that Grantham had framed P.J., thereby thwarting his scheme for revenge.
Portrayed by David Glazebrook, 1994–1995
H
Zoe Hamilton
Zoe Hamilton served as a doctor at Mount Thomas Hospital from 1995 through 1998. She married Sergeant Nick Schultz and subsequently relocated to Melbourne to pursue further education, while Nick assumed a sergeant position at the Footscray police station.
Portrayed by Karen Davitt*, 1995–1998
*Davitt initially appeared as nurse Karen before taking on the role of Dr. Hamilton in season 2.
Alan Hayes
Alan Hayes, nicknamed Compo, was a recurring figure on the Australian police drama Blue Heelers. Known primarily for his attempts to secure compensation or money through various schemes, he occasionally revealed a more community-minded side, such as organizing a charity fundraiser for the CFA, which also served as a cover for running an SP book.
Portrayed by Tony Rickards, 1995–2003
Rory Hayes
Rory Hayes featured during the concluding seasons of Blue Heelers as a nine-year-old boy searching for his father. Initially thought to be Evan Jones, it was eventually disclosed that his biological father was Alex Kirby. Despite some initial hostility, Rory formed a strong attachment to Alex, with their relationship deepening through storylines involving a school shooting and Rory’s appendicitis. Their bond ultimately grew into a heartfelt father-son connection.
Portrayed by Louis Corbett of McKinnon Secondary College, 2005–2006
K
Siobhan Kennedy
Siobhan Kennedy appeared intermittently on Blue Heelers as a self-styled witch who provided assistance to the police on cases involving supernatural elements. She maintained amicable relationships with the team, especially with Ben Stewart. Her appearances spanned from 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 character known for frequently disrupting police inquiries on Blue Heelers. She was a recurring presence from 1995 through 1996.
Played by Beverly Evans, 1995–1996
Tibor Kerenyi
Dr. Tibor Kerenyi, the series' resident veterinarian, regularly contributed to cases involving animals on Blue Heelers. His character appeared intermittently between 1995 and 2001.
Played by Colin Duckworth, 1995–2001
L
Len
Len was a fictional figure featured as the bartender at the Imperial Pub in Mount Thomas on Blue Heelers.
Played by Axl Taylor, 1994–2002
M
Beth McKinley
Beth McKinley, introduced in 1996, was the mother of Probationary Constable Dash McKinley on Blue Heelers. A widowed parent of nine children, Beth was a well-known community member active in local women's organizations. Her familiarity with the town occasionally assisted police work. Beth's death in a car accident during season 6 led Dash to reassess her career and ultimately resign.
Played by Pauline Terry-Bietz, 1996–1999
Charlie McKinley
Charlie McKinley, Dash McKinley's older brother, appeared repeatedly throughout the series. He had a young daughter in primary school who was often noted for her forthright nature, similar to Dash.
Played by Kevin Harrington, 1997–1999, 2003
David Murray
David Murray joined the cast late in the series as a lawyer who developed a romantic relationship with Kelly; they cohabited during season 13.
Played by Joshua Lawson, 2006
N
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 came to Mount Thomas to assist with a rape case and became romantically involved with Maggie Doyle (Lisa McCune). Characterized as "methodical and logical," Sean departed after being suspected of corruption, choosing to start anew in Melbourne.
Stacey Norse
Stacey Norse was married to Adam after becoming pregnant with what he believed was his child; however, she suffered a miscarriage. She appeared and left within 1997, later reuniting with her ex-boyfriend—the true father—and attempted to murder Adam for insurance money. Their scheme was exposed, resulting in their arrest.
Played by Kate Atkinson, 1997
P
Sasha Peters
Sasha Peters featured as a character on Blue Heelers, introduced as the spouse of Nick's friend. Her life took a tragic turn when her husband died during a high-speed pursuit. She developed a close relationship with Nick, though tensions arose following her brother's arrest by the Heelers.
Played by Jane Longhurst, 1995
Merv Poole
Merv Poole was a recurring fictional character on Blue Heelers.
Played by Peter Aanensen, 1997–2004
Keith Purvis
Keith Purvis was a fictional figure in Blue Heelers, characterized as a fiercely patriotic farmer who frequently caused disturbances. He considered himself the guardian of local order and occasionally resorted to forceful measures despite having his firearm licence revoked.
Played by Reg Evans, 1995–1999
R
"Richo"
Richo was a character created for Blue Heelers.
Portrayed by Stuart Baker, 1995–2004
Tim Ryan
Tim Ryan featured in Blue Heelers during the years 1998 to 1999.
Played by Grant Piro, 1998–1999
T
Robyn Taylor
Senior Constable Robyn Taylor, brought to life by Belinda McClory, first appeared on 5 May 1999 in a guest role lasting six weeks. As a member of the Accident Investigation Squad, she showed a desire to move to a rural area. She and her family relocated near Mount Thomas with plans to establish a vineyard. Robyn remained in Mount Thomas throughout Maggie Doyle's witness protection phase but eventually returned to Melbourne after her husband was implicated in significant fraud allegations.
Tony Timms
Tony Timms, enacted by Jeremy Kewley from 1997 through 2005, was the local journalist for the Mount Thomas Gazette. Known for being frequently uncooperative, he often became entangled in community issues and sometimes posed challenges for the police force.
Jack Woodley
Senior Detective Jack Woodley, portrayed by Frankie J. Holden, made his first appearance on 30 April 1996. He succeeded Wayne Patterson (Grant Bowler) following Patterson's death, arriving from Melbourne's Armed Robbery Squad. The Mount Thomas station staff were surprised by Woodley's extensive experience, having anticipated a young probationary officer. Woodley sought a more tranquil country lifestyle and had a wife and two children. Early in his assignment, he tampered with evidence to hasten investigations, including cases involving an attack on a police widow and the murder of a shearer where an innocent man was implicated. This misconduct was uncovered by P. J. Hasham (Martin Sacks), who faced the ethical conflict of either exposing Woodley—potentially jeopardizing the cases—or staying silent. Ultimately, P.J. chose to report the evidence tampering, resulting in Woodley's termination from the police force.