Police and Crime Commissioner reinforces determination to make a real difference
As Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Hogg reaches a notable milestone on Friday 1 March - 100 days in office - he has reinforced his determination to make a real difference and says he is looking forward to the next 1,000 days, and beyond.
Since being elected in mid-November, Tony Hogg has overseen the appointment of a new Chief Constable, published his Police and Crime plan, and set budgets.
He has already received encouraging feedback from local people about how he is developing the role, and engaging directly with them. He has met numerous partners, groups and individuals during his first three months in this pioneering role, and is committed to expanding that further heading in to the spring and summer.
Among his stated long-term priorities are tackling alcohol-related crime and misuse, and giving victims of crime a stronger voice.
Some other consistent themes have emerged from discussions with local people throughout the force area.
Neighbourhood policing is a cornerstone of traditional policing but, with less police officers nationally, Tony Hogg has seen a real enthusiasm to embrace the concept of the community playing its part to augment the policing family. This is something that is very close to his heart and a major priority.
Tony Hogg says: “In many ways this could be interpreted as a return to old fashioned values. The phrase ‘I want to see more bobbies on the beat’ is one I have heard a lot, and is absolutely central to what I want to achieve. This is why I have ensured that police numbers stay above 3,000 in Devon and Cornwall, and didn’t fall to 2,800 as planned before I was elected.”
“Our communities must be empowered to take more ownership for their own policing and I am more determined than ever to do whatever it takes to encourage this. I can bring people together, encourage local partnerships, develop the roles of PCSO’s and Specials, and see young people play their part too through police cadets and youth initiatives.”
“Reducing crime and feeling safer must be a team effort involving all of us.”
“My first 100 days have been extremely busy. This role is challenging, but I am relishing the task. Yes, I admit there are those that still need to be persuaded about the impact a PCC can make, but sometimes in life you have to let your actions speak louder than words. That is what I will continue to do.”
