New policing arrangement for Teignbridge, Torbay and the South Hams

A new basic police command unit will be introduced, covering Teignbridge, Torbay and the South Hams.

This will take the total number of basic command units across the force up to four.  These four key units of policing are Cornwall, Plymouth, South Devon and NEW [North, East and West] Devon.

The introduction of this new management position will allow a greater influence over priorities for the local area and a bigger voice for South Devon within the force.

Taking on the new role is Chief Superintendent Keith Perkin (pictured) who has worked for Devon and Cornwall Police for 28 years. Much of that time has been spent living and working across South Devon.

Chief Supt Perkin will be supported by Superintendent Jez Capey and a team of senior officers, including Chief Inspectors, Superintendents and Inspectors.

Key priorities for Chief Supt Perkin include working with and building strong relationships with partner agencies particularly around the demand to public services in areas such as substance abuse, mental health and exploitation.

Other key areas of work will include, looking at how the South Devon area can benefit further from the skills of the forces specialist resources and implementing recommendations from a recent review of neighbourhood policing.

Chief Superintendent Keith Perkin said: “Devon and Cornwall Police has recognised the need to put a renewed focus on policing in South Devon. This change will allow a greater influence and ultimately a better means for making positive changes in the local communities.

“South Devon has a proud history of delivering, through partnership, tangible benefits for local communities. I look forward to working with colleagues and partners in supporting them to continue this work.”