Tim Holmes

Dr Tim Holmes serves as a Senior Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice and Director of Student Engagement at Bangor University's School of History, Law and Social Sciences. With academic credentials entirely from Bangor University, including a BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice, an MA in Comparative Criminology, and a 2010 PhD on identity theft and fraud, he has established himself as a specialist in deception-based crimes and rural victimization.

His research portfolio demonstrates significant expertise in crimes based on deception, victimization in rural communities, and public attitudes toward prison construction. Holmes examines how rural communities, particularly farmers, respond to crime threats with ambivalence and resilience, challenging conventional fear-of-crime paradigms. His work on identity fraud and white-collar crime in popular culture reveals how media representations shape public understanding of criminal behavior and justice systems.

Analysis of his publications shows consistent focus on the intersection of criminological theory and practical criminal justice applications, with particular attention to surveillance technologies, prison systems, and rural policing challenges. His research frequently engages with contemporary criminal justice issues as evidenced by media commentary on prison construction, terrorist attacks, and bail policy changes.

Professional Recognition:

• Teaching in Higher Education (Senior Fellowship level) from Higher Education Academy (2022)
• Teaching in Higher Education (Fellowship level) from Higher Education Academy (2014)
• Bangor Teaching Fellowship (2021)

Holmes actively contributes to academic governance as Director of Student Engagement and participates in external advisory roles including the North Wales Police Police Constable Entry Routes Management group (2020-2025) and the College of Policing Higher Education Institution Network. His scholarly service includes editorial work for Sage Open and examination duties for both Bangor and Portsmouth universities. He regularly engages with public discourse through media appearances discussing criminological topics ranging from the Kray twins anniversary to contemporary prison policy issues.

Holmes maintains active connections with professional criminal justice institutions while developing teaching strategies for policing degree programs. His work on rural crime victimization has led to practical engagement with farming communities on Anglesey, demonstrating applied research that bridges academic theory and community practice.