Police are investigating the 'suspicious' death of a serving officer found in a Kent village.
The body of Kent Police PCSO Julia James, 53, was found in Akholt Wood in Snowdown, near Dover, on Tuesday at around 4pm
Detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime units are conducting enquiries to establish the circumstances of her death, which is being treated as suspicious, the force confirmed.
No arrests have been made.
Assistant Chief Constable of Kent Police Tom Richards said: "Officers are carrying out a number of lines of enquiry to establish the circumstances and people in the Snowdown area will see an increased police presence as a result.
"It saddens me to confirm that the victim was a serving PCSO for Kent Police and whilst there is a full and thorough investigation underway our thoughts also remain with her family, friends and colleagues.
‘"It is vitally important that anyone who was in the area on Monday and Tuesday who may have seen something suspicious gets in touch with us. We’re particularly keen to speak to those who regularly visit the area who may have seen something out of place and those who drove by who have dashcam footage.
"We would advise people in the area to remain vigilant until the full circumstances of the death are established."
Officers want to speak to anyone who was in the Aylesham Road area on Monday (April 26) or Tuesday (April 27) who may have seen something unusual or suspicious.
Witnesses are asked to call Kent Police on 08000514526.
