Greetings from the good old US of A !!

I hope this message finds you well. Thought it might be timely to send an update.

We arrived at around 10pm on the Saturday night, (9th April) at Memphis following a 5 hr delay at Chicago...

Following a greeting at the airport by the District Governor and GSE officer, were taken to Memphis Hilton.

We spent 3 days in Memphis before travelling to Cleveland, Calhoun City, Senatobia, arriving today at Clarksdale.

So far, I've visited the Drugs Enforcement Agency, (always wondered what DEA stood for on the telly!), Memphis City Police, and the three other small town city Police Departments.

I've found complete contrast between all the places I've been to, let alone when comparing with our system. Whilst I've been inundated with a wealth of information and practices to bring back, I've also been amazed by how interested the locals are in our practices and methods of policing,  and also  how far behind they are in so many ways...

The crazy thing about chasing criminals to the border and running out  of authority like on the TV really does happen...MADNESS!!

They also need a warrant here to arrest someone or to search, in almost all cases. They have very little partnership working like back home. This is an aspect receiving particular interest.

Presentations seem to be going down a ball, especially the Q and A sessions we have held. I am commonly being asked about gun crime, murder and drink driving...gives a taste perhaps of the problems over here!!

There is just loads of stuff I've picked up, can't believe have only  been here a week with three more to go..

The others are similarly enjoying, and finding rewards, in their placements.

We are doing lots of other things too...

Taken to a CASINO the other day. $20 only lost so that was ok. Have also been shown round the sole supplier of sweet potatoes to TESCO, a fantastic Children's hospital facility for cancer treatment, and a national printing factory.

Today we are enjoying half a rest day. David, and I are stopping at the same place. They have a pool and a 20' power boat which we've just been thrashing round a local lake...!!

Am now relaxing, while lunch is prepared.... will keep in touch and write before next weeks meeting.

best wishes
Steve, Matt, Helen, Charlie and David.