Senior fingerprint officer retires after 40 years of service
Margaret Keeler ends her incredible career with long service recognition
After more than four decades with the force, Margaret Keeler has retired from her role as senior fingerprint technician.
Margaret was presented with a long service medal and certificate by Chief Constable Rachel Bacon last week in recognition of her remarkable contribution to the force since she joined as an admin support officer in 1985.
Four decades of dedication
Margaret’s career has spanned 40 years, beginning in administrative support where she honed her policing knowledge and skills.
In 2006, she transitioned into the Criminal Justice Unit, helping prepare case files for courts and ensuring the highest quality standards in legal documentation.
In 2011, Margaret joined the Fingerprint Bureau as a senior fingerprint technician, playing a critical role in managing custody fingerprint records, overseeing exhibits collected from crime scenes, and supporting the integrity of legal cases moving through the judicial process.
Colleagues have praised Margaret’s wide breadth of knowledge, with staff at the bureau describing her contributions as invaluable.
“Her knowledge of the force and in particular the criminal justice world has helped the team build strong relationships with those working in custody and those in similar roles at neighbouring forces,” they said.
Reflecting on her career
Looking back on her time in policing, Margaret has already seen eight chief constables serve in her time on the force and witnessed transformative changes such as the transition from paper systems to digital ones and typewriters to computers.
She said: “Over my 40+ year career I've seen eight chief constables lead the force and many changes from paper systems to digital, typewriters to computers, local systems to centralised and many more, however the commitment of officers and staff I've met along the way striving to do more with less resources remains at the heart of the service.”
Margaret shared heartfelt advice with her colleagues, saying: “Take pride in your work, ask for advice when you need it and don't lose sight of why we do what we do – for the victims of crime and keeping our communities safe. Look after yourselves and each other.”
Looking ahead
Margaret plans to enjoy her retirement with time dedicated to travelling and spending quality moments with her husband and family, including her pets.
The force thanked Margaret for her extraordinary commitment and service, saying she would be greatly missed and wishing her all the best for the future.