Police on patrol in Barnstaple, one of the towns which will receive additional resources
My relentless focus on creating safe, resilient and connected communities, where everyone has a part to play, has been bolstered by a significant financial boost.
As recently announced the Home Office has awarded us £1 million to intensify patrol efforts in 16 key locations identified as hotspots from Devon & Cornwall Police data.
I know ASB remains a top concern for people across the peninsula. Part of my job is to represent the residents of the police force area so I am always asking for your opinions. More than half of respondents to my Your Safety, Your Say survey select ASB as an issue that most troubles them, and an area where they would like to see extra investment.
A renewed focus on ASB is a cornerstone of my third term as Police and Crime Commissioner, and it aligns with my broader priorities of tackling violence and drug misuse too.
Considerable progress has been made through initiatives such as Operation Loki. This neighbourhood policing operation that I supported has resulted in over 150 arrests and 30,000 positive interactions with the community. These efforts have laid a strong foundation for the work ahead but there is still more to be done.
This funding will enable us to deploy additional police patrols and uniformed community patrols, such as marshals and street wardens where they are needed most. It will be supplemented by a further £200,000 from my office so we can maximise the number of partner patrols across Devon and Cornwall. Hotspot policing forms part of a wider Street Focus strategy led by my office, working in close collaboration with local authorities to address the issues that matter to our residents.
By increasing visible uniformed patrols, we are not just deterring unwanted behaviour but providing a reassuring presence in areas where the public feel most vulnerable. We will reclaim our town centres and make them more resilient to ASB so that our communities can thrive.
Police patrols are already under way and making a difference. I am committed to working closely with our councils to deliver additional partner patrols in the coming weeks. By coordinating our efforts, we can be proactive in managing the challenges posed by serious violence and antisocial behaviour.
Keep your eye out for our patrols when you’re out and about in our hotspot areas, and say hello to our team, who will be pleased to speak with you about any issues you see in the community.
You can also report ASB and serious violence using the 101 service, at a police station near you (check online at www.devon-cornwall.police.uk for locations and opening times) or by calling 999 in an emergency, or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/ or by calling 0800 555 111.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to making our communities safer. If you have yet to have your say on your policing priorities you can complete my Your Safety, Your Say survey.