Zakon were pleased to be asked to run an advanced Disclosure course with military detectives working within the RAF Specialist Investigation Branch. The RAF recognised that the management of unused material (Disclosure) requires significant knowledge and expertise and puts cases at risk if not appropriately dealt with in their serious crime investigations.

Zakon have a team which includes current and former detectives, many with investigative and legal degrees and were perfectly positioned to give practical advice through experience, update delegates knowledge and most importantly apply a “trial mindset”.

The training was led by Simon Smith who has many years’ experience as a Disclosure Officer and regularly runs Disclosure training to a variety of audiences. He said “We spent the first day very importantly bringing delegates knowledge up to date and then for the rest of the course updated delegates on recent changes such as the Attorney Generals Guidelines. We covered further elements inherent in more complex crime such as pre-charge engagement, block disclosure, third party material, disclosure management document and highly sensitive material. I was so proud of the whole group who were very enthusiastic and seeing their knowledge grow so quickly filled me with pride. We have already been asked to look at running more courses including interview (ABE) training.”

Here is just a few of the comments from delegates: -

“Relaxed and comfortable approach to tuition fostered an environment that invited discussion and direct example-based learning.”

“Simon came across as being very knowledgeable and experienced, able to answer question we had clearly to help us understand.”

“I believe this course is needed for everyone at SIB and investigative roles at all ranks!”

“I’ve gone from a very basic understanding to having a lot more respect for disclosure.”

“I have been on a couple of external disclosure courses but this is the best one. It helps with an enthusiastic presenter who has made a difficult topic easier to understand, along with the necessary material to look for.”

“If you can get into the investigative mindset, it could make your investigation bullet proof, time efficient etc.”

“Trainer took time to understand our policy and clearly understood the subject and gave us good examples.

We are looking forward to continue with our courses and meet incredible and enthusiastic people! You can find out more about the fantastic work of the GLAA here https://www.gla.gov.uk