The BBC’s new documentary series Reported Missing follows Durham police officers as they investigate missing person cases.
The series shows the efforts the authorities go to when disappearance calls come in, and how they go about solving the incidents.
In the first episode of the three-part series, one case follows the search for Joshua, a 12 year-old with learning disabilities.
The youngster stormed out of the house after an argument with his mum, but hasn’t returned home.
It’s a complex situation not just in the solving of the case, but managing the emotions of all involved.
“Your child is the most precious thing in your life,” sympathises one officer. “As a parent myself you’d really be looking for somebody to say everything’s going to be ok.
“But you can’t give that guarantee, and it would be wrong to.”
The instalment also follows the disappearance of Katie, a 13 year-old who has left behind a suicide note.
The search for her involved officers and sniffer dogs, with the help of mountain rescue services. But thanks to budget cuts, the use of a police helicopter is not guaranteed – even though it could quickly bring results.
The BBC’s series offers an important look into the way missing person cases are handled – and the difficulties for the families and officers involved.
BBC One, 9pm
