Forget high-tech facial recognition software; in the West Midlands, Police Community Support Officer Andy Pope is the ultimate crime-fighting tool. With an almost photographic memory for faces, the officer known as the 'memory man' has now identified an astonishing 3,000 suspects and is aiming to reach 3,500 by 2026.
The Man Who Never Forgets a Face
PCSO Pope, 47, from Redditch, is what scientists term a 'super recogniser'. His rare ability allows him to memorise thousands of faces from security stills and police briefings, often recalling them months or even years later. His talent is so refined he has identified individuals based on the shape of a moustache or a distinctive mole, and even managed to pick out suspects wearing face masks during the Covid-19 pandemic.
One of his most notable successes was recognising a man wanted for two years for causing a nuisance on train platforms. Since beginning his role with the force's Safer Travel Partnership in 2015, he averages one identification every other shift, but has had days where he has spotted as many as 16 wanted individuals.
A Decade of Dedication to Public Safety
Andy Pope's unique skill set has been instrumental in tackling serious crime over the past decade. He has helped apprehend suspects linked to murder, rape, and robbery. His process involves studying images of wanted individuals before each shift, allowing features to lodge in his memory. "When I see the person in the flesh, it triggers that recognition," he explained.
Despite his powers of recall for faces, the officer jokes that he is 'useless' at remembering dates like birthdays and anniversaries. In 2018, his efforts were formally recognised when he received a Chief Constable's Award after identifying his first 1,000 suspects. He is also a founder of the Association of Super Recognisers, which promotes this ability as a forensic tool.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As a PCSO, Pope does not have powers of arrest, so he calls upon warranted colleagues from West Midlands Police to detain the individuals he identifies. His work involves travelling on public transport across the region, using his innate skill to assist various police departments.
Reflecting on his 3,000th identification, PCSO Pope said it was a proud moment that has made him "even more determined to spot more". He added, "I will be keeping a close eye out in 2026." For the communities of the West Midlands, that means a continued extra layer of security, thanks to one man's extraordinary gift.
