Thursday 23 November 2023

Death of a retired Police Officer: Insp 647 Richard (Frank) Johnson

It is with deep regret that we inform you of the death of a retired Police Officer, Insp 647 Richard (Frank) Johnson, who died at Sedgefield Community Hospital on Wednesday 8th November 2023, aged 80 years.

Frank joined Durham County Constabulary on 25th January 1965.  His first posting was at Stockton, before moving to Peterlee and then detached beat at Wheatley Hill.  In 1967 he took up post at Durham Police Headquarters at Aycliffe, in the Fingerprint Department.  After 2 years Frank moved to Durham City and then Framwellgate Section (Panda Driver).

Frank’s next move was a transfer to the Serious Incident Squad (SIS), Meadowfield Base, in 1972; when the SIS was disbanded 2 years later, he transferred to the Crime Support Unit.  When promoted to Sergeant in 1977, he moved to Spennymoor.

From 1979, he remained in CID, for the remainder of his service, starting with HQ Drug Squad / 1981 CID Chester-le-Street / 1982 Regional Crime Squad (Gosforth) /1986 CID Peterlee.  In 1989 he was promoted to the rank of Inspector in CID and in 1990 he returned to Chester-le-Street.  His last posting was to Headquarters Crime Support Unit, where he remained until his retirement on 5th June 1997, after 32 years service.

Frank is survived by his wife, Helena Mary (married in 1965).  Sadly, Helena is a resident at St Margaret’s Care Home in Durham City, suffering with Dementia and Alzheimer Disease.

A funeral service is to be held at 11.30am Thursday 30 November 2023 at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ.

Family flowers only.

Our thoughts are with Frank’s family and friends at this sad time.

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