THE rippling effect caused by criminals and the impact felt by a victim can trigger a catalogue of emotions which are far reaching.

After falling victim to burglary twice the new chief inspector for Warrington Sarah Pengelly understands the lasting damage crime can cause on those left to pick up the pieces.

Her desire to help those in need was part of the reason why she joined the police force more than 25 years ago.

The 49-year-old said: "When I was a kid I remember our house being broken into.

"I was seven at time.

"I was very impressionable at that age and the police officers came and took fingerprints

"I was fascinated by that. I have always been interested in the investigative side of policing.

"I have also always wanted to champion the underdog and those people who can't fight for themselves.

"This is was the driving force behind why I joined public service.

"When you have pensioners who have been targeted it really matters to me.

"My parents are old. You draw that parallel and think if that was my family how would I feel.

"Being able to arrest those sought of criminals is a rewarding part of the job.

"I understand people are driven to crime for very desperate reasons but I feel the need to protect the community and stop these offences from happening again."

Chf insp Pengelly, who grew up in Dorset, has taken over the role from former chief inspector Pete Shaw following his recent promotion to superintendent.

She has held down a number of roles at various ranks including constable, sergeant and inspector.

Supporting the most vulnerable in the town, tackling anti-social behaviour and developing engagement with the public are just a few of the priorities she plans to focus her efforts on.

Having experienced life on the frontline of the police service, chf insp Pengelly can relate to the difficulties officers face on a daily basis.

She added: “I can still remember the first sudden death I went to.

“Some of the people we have working here are young.

“It's a hard job we ask people to do on behalf of Warrington as a community.

 “We deal with people in crisis. We don’t hear from people who are having a good time.

“But we always try to do the best we can.”

Have you got a question for chf insp Pengelly about policing in Warrington? Email Lauren Hirst on lauren.hirst@nqnw.co.uk.