On February 20, 2026, Durham Constabulary in County Durham introduced a new specialist officer to the public as part of an effort to show how they protect children from online harm. Field Intelligence Officer Kierah joined the specialist online investigation team in January 2026 after spending two years working as a response officer in Durham City.
The profile is the final part of a series designed to explain how officers track digital footprints to stop crimes before they happen. DS James Somersall, who has led the team for six years, said that what happens on the internet can quickly lead to harm in the physical world.
The team also includes other members like investigator DC Liam Padget and Laura, a specialist who works to identify children in pictures so they can be kept safe. These officers spend their time checking computers and phones to find evidence and stop illegal activity across the county.
This focus on digital safety comes after a court case earlier in February 2026 where a man from Shildon was caught with over 300 illegal images. Police are now asking parents and young people to be careful online and to report any worries through the official force website.
