Category: News

Commissioner welcomes community focus of Beating Crime Plan following launch at Surrey Police HQ

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend has welcomed the focus on neighbourhood policing and protecting victims in a new government plan launched today during a visit by the Prime Minister and Home Secretary to Surrey Police headquarters.

The Commissioner said she was pleased the Beating Crime Plan sought not only to tackle serious violence and high harm offences but also to drive down local crime issues such as Anti-Social Behaviour.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel were welcomed by the Commissioner to the Force’s Mount Browne HQ in Guildford today to coincide with the launch of the plan.

During the visit they met with some of the Surrey Police Volunteer Cadets, were given an insight into the police officer training programme and saw first-hand the work of the Force contact centre.

They were also introduced to some of the police dogs and their handlers from the Force’s internationally renowned dog school.

Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend said: “I’m delighted to have welcomed the Prime Minister and Home Secretary to our headquarters here in Surrey today to meet some of the brilliant teams Surrey Police has to offer.

“It was a great opportunity to showcase the training we are doing here in Surrey to ensure our residents get a first-class policing service. I know our visitors were impressed with what they saw and it was a proud moment for everyone.

“I am determined to ensure we continue to put local people at the heart of policing so I am pleased that the plan announced today will put a particular focus on neighbourhood policing and protecting victims.

“Our neighbourhood teams play a critical role in tackling those local crime issues we know are so important to our residents. So it was good to see that this is given prominence in the government’s plan and I was pleased to hear the Prime Minister re-affirm his commitment to visible policing.

“I especially welcome the renewed commitment to treat anti-social behaviour with the seriousness it deserves, and that this plan recognises the importance of engaging early with young people to prevent crime and exploitation.

“I am currently forming my Police and Crime Plan for Surrey so I will be looking closely to see how the government’s plan can will fit in with the priorities that I will set for policing in this county.”

woman walking in a dark underpass

Commissioner responds to landmark strategy to end violence against women and girls

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend has welcomed a new strategy unveiled by the Home Office today to tackle violence against women and girls.

It calls on police forces and partners to make reducing violence against women and girls an absolute national priority, including the creation of a new policing lead to drive change.

The Strategy highlights the need for a whole-system approach that invests further in prevention, the best possible support for victims and tough action against perpetrators.

Commissioner Lisa Townsend said: “The launch of this strategy is a welcome reiteration by the Government of the importance of tackling violence against women and girls. This is an area that I feel really passionate about as your Commissioner, and I’m particularly pleased that it includes a recognition that we must keep the focus on offenders.

“I’ve been out meeting local organisations and Surrey Police teams that are at the forefront of the partnership to tackle all forms of sexual violence and abuse in Surrey, and that are providing care to the individuals affected. We’re working together to strengthen the response we provide across the county, including ensuring our efforts to prevent harm and support victims reach minority groups.”

In 2020/21, the Office of the PCC provided more funds to address violence against women and girls than ever before, including development of a new stalking service with the Suzy Lamplugh Trust and local partners.

Funding from the PCC’s Office helps provide a wide range of local services, including counselling, dedicated services for children, a confidential helpline, and professional support for individuals navigating the criminal justice system.

The announcement of the Government’s Strategy follows a number of actions taken by Surrey Police, including a Surrey wide – consultation responded by over 5000 women and girls on community safety, and improvements to the Force’s Violence against Women and Girls Strategy.

The Force Strategy contains a new emphasis on tackling coercive and controlling behaviour, enhanced support for minority groups including the LGBTQ+ community, and a new multi-partner group focussed on male perpetrators of crimes against women and girls.

As part of the Force’s Rape & Serious Sexual Offence Improvement Strategy 2021/22, Surrey Police maintain a dedicated Rape and Serious Offence Investigation Team, supported by a new team of Sexual Offence Liaison Officers established in partnership with the PCC’s office.

The publication of the Governments Strategy coincides with a new report by AVA (Against Violence & Abuse) and Agenda Alliance that highlights local authorities’ and commissioners’ important role in tackling violence against women and girls in a way that acknowledges the relationships between gender-based violence, and multiple disadvantage that includes homelessness, substance misuse and poverty.

Commissioner Lisa Townsend takes national lead on mental health and custody

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend has become the national lead for mental health and custody for the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC).

Lisa will guide best practise and the priorities of PCCs across the country, including strengthening the support available to those affected by mental ill-health and encouraging best practise in police custody.

The position will build on Lisa’s previous experience of supporting the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Mental Health, working alongside charities and the Centre for Mental Health to develop policies to put forward to the Government.

Lisa will lead the response from PCC’s to the Government on topics including the relationship between mental health service provision, police time spent attending to incidents and reducing offending.

The custody portfolio will champion the most effective processes for the detention and care of individuals, including continuous improvement of Independent Custody Visiting Schemes delivered by PCCs in England and Wales.

Independent Custody Visitors are volunteers who visit police stations to carry out important checks on the conditions of custody and the welfare of those who are detained. In Surrey, each of the three custody suites is visited five times a month by a team of 40 ICVs.

Commissioner Lisa Townsend said: “The mental health of our communities has an enormous impact on policing across the UK, and often places

police officers first at the scene in times of crisis.

“I’m excited to lead Police and Crime Commissioners and police forces right across the country, who have close relationships with health services and local organisations to strengthen the support for individuals affected by mental ill-health. This includes reducing the number of individuals who are vulnerable to criminal exploitation because of mental health concerns.

“In the last year, health services have faced enormous strain – as Commissioners, I believe there is much we can do together with local organisations to develop new initiatives and support impactful projects that will protect more individuals from harm.

“The Custody Portfolio is of equal importance to me and offers a chance to make further improvements in this less visible area of policing.”

Lisa will be supported by Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell, who is Deputy Lead for Mental Health and Custody.

“Embrace new normal with common sense.” – PCC Lisa Townsend welcomes Covid-19 announcement

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend has welcomed the confirmed easing of remaining Covid-19 restrictions that will take place on Monday.

19 July will see the removal of all legal limits on meeting others, on the types of businesses that can operate and restrictions such as the wearing of face coverings.

The rules will also be eased for fully vaccinated travellers returning from ‘Amber list’ countries, while some safeguards will remain in place in settings such as hospitals.

PCC Lisa Townsend said: “Next week marks an exciting stride towards the ‘new normal’ for our communities right across the country; including business owners and others in Surrey who have had their lives placed on hold by Covid-19.

“We’ve seen an amazing determination over the last 16 months to keep Surrey’s communities safe. As cases continue to rise, it is so important we embrace the new normal with common sense, regular testing and respect for those around us.

“In some settings, there may be continued measures in place to protect us all. I ask Surrey residents to show patience as we all adjust to what the next few months will mean for our lives.”

Surrey Police has seen an increase in demand via 101, 999, and digital contact since the previous easing of restrictions in May.

PCC Lisa Townsend said: “Surrey Police officers and staff have played a central role in protecting our communities throughout the events of the last year.

Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend watches from a front door as Surrey Police officers execute a warrant at a property linked to possible county lines drug dealing.

I want to stress my eternal gratitude on behalf of all residents for their determination, and for the sacrifices that they have made and will continue to make after July 19.

“While legal Covid-19 restrictions will ease on Monday, this is just one of the areas of focus for Surrey Police. As we enjoy new freedoms, officers and staff will continue to be there visibly and behind the scenes to protect the public, support victims and bring perpetrators to justice.

“You can play your part by reporting anything suspicious, or that just doesn’t feel right. Your information could play a part in preventing modern slavery, a burglary, or providing support to a survivor of abuse.”

Surrey Police can be contacted on Surrey Police social media pages, live chat on the Surrey Police website or via the 101 non-emergency number. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Ellie Vesey-Thompson

Surrey’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner to help drive fresh impact

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

Surrey Police & Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend has formally appointed Ellie Vesey-Thompson as her Deputy PCC.

Ellie, who will be the youngest Deputy PCC in the country, will focus on engaging with young people and supporting the PCC on other key priorities informed by Surrey residents and police partners.

She shares PCC Lisa Townsend’s passion to do more to reduce violence against women and girls and ensure the support for all victims of crime is the best it can be.

Ellie has a background in policy, communications and youth engagement, and has worked in both public and private sector roles. Having joined the UK Youth Parliament in her early teens, she is experienced in voicing concerns for young people, and representing others at all levels. Ellie has a degree in Politics and a Graduate Diploma in Law. She has previously worked for the National Citizen Service and her most recent role was in digital design and communications.

The new appointment comes as Lisa, the first female PCC in Surrey, focuses on implementing the vision she outlined during the recent PCC election.

PCC Lisa Townsend said: “Surrey has not had a Deputy PCC since 2016. I have a very broad agenda and Ellie has already been heavily involved across the county.

“We have a lot of important work ahead. I stood on a commitment to make Surrey safer and put local people’s views at the heart of my policing priorities. I was given a clear mandate to do that by the residents of Surrey. I am delighted to bring Ellie on board to help deliver those promises.”

As part of the appointment process, the PCC and Ellie Vesey-Thompson attended a Confirmation Hearing with the Police & Crime Panel where Members were able to ask questions about the candidate and her future work.

The Panel has subsequently made a recommendation to the PCC that Ellie is not appointed to the role. On this point, PCC Lisa Townsend said: “I note with genuine disappointment the recommendation of the Panel. Whilst I do not agree with this conclusion, I have carefully considered the points raised by Members.”

The PCC has provided a written response to the Panel and has reaffirmed her confidence in Ellie to undertake this role.

Lisa said: “Engaging with young people is hugely important and was a key part of my manifesto. Ellie will bring her own experience and perspective to the role.

“I promised to be highly visible and in the coming weeks I will be out and about with Ellie engaging directly with residents on the Police and Crime Plan.”

Deputy PCC Ellie Vesey-Thompson said she was delighted to officially take up the role: “I’ve been hugely impressed by the work the Surrey PCC team is already doing to support Surrey Police and partners.

“I am particularly keen to enhance this work with young people in our county, with both those affected by crime, and with individuals who are already involved, or at risk of becoming involved, in the criminal justice system.”

PCC Lisa Townsend welcomes new Probation Service

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

Probation services delivered by private businesses across England and Wales have been merged with the National Probation Service this week to provide a new unified public Probation Service.

The Service will provide closer supervision of offenders and home visits to better protect children and partners, with Regional Directors responsible for making probation more effective and consistent across England and Wales.

Probation services manage individuals on a community order or licence following their release from prison, and provide unpaid work or behaviour change programmes that take place in the community.

The change forms part of the Government’s commitment to grow greater public confidence in the Criminal Justice System.

It comes after Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Probation concluded that the previous model of delivering Probation through a mix of public and private organisations was ‘fundamentally flawed’.

In Surrey, partnership between the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Community Rehabilitation Company has played a key role in reducing reoffending since 2016.

Craig Jones, OPCC Policy and Commissioning Lead for Criminal Justice said KSSCRC were “a true vision of what a Community Rehabilitative Company should be” but recognised that this was not the case for all services provided across the country.

PCC Lisa Townsend welcomed the change, that will support the existing work of the PCC’s Office and partners to continue to drive down reoffending in Surrey:

“These changes to the Probation Service will strengthen our partnership work to reduce reoffending, supporting real change by individuals who experience the Criminal Justice System in Surrey.

“It’s really important that this retains a focus on the value of community sentences that we’ve championed over the last five years, including our Checkpoint and Checkpoint Plus schemes that have a tangible impact on an individual’s likelihood of reoffending.

“I welcome new measures that will ensure that high risk offenders will be monitored more closely, as well as providing a greater control over the impact that probation has on the victims of crime.”

Surrey Police said it will continue to work closely with the Office of the PCC, the National Probation Service and the Surrey Probation Service to manage offenders released into the local community.

“We owe it to victims to pursue justice relentlessly.” – PCC Lisa Townsend responds to government review into rape and sexual violence

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend has welcomed the results of a wide-reaching review to achieve justice for more victims of rape and sexual assault.

Reforms unveiled by the Government today include providing greater support for victims of rape and serious sexual offences, and new monitoring of the services and agencies involved to improve outcomes.

The measures follow a review by the Ministry of Justice into the decline in the number of charges, prosecutions and convictions for rape achieved across England and Wales in the last five years.

An increased focus will be given to reduce the number of victims that withdraw from giving evidence because of delays and lack of support, and on ensuring the investigation of rape and sexual offences goes further to address the behaviour of perpetrators.

The results of the review concluded the national response to rape was ‘totally unacceptable’ – promising to return positive outcomes to 2016 levels.

PCC for Surrey Lisa Townsend said: “We must take every possible opportunity to relentlessly pursue justice for individuals affected by rape and sexual violence. These are devastating crimes that too often fall short of the response we expect and want to give to all victims.

“This is a crucial reminder that we owe it to every victim of crime to provide a sensitive, timely and consistent response to these awful crimes.

“Reducing violence against women and girls is at the heart of my commitment to Surrey residents. I’m proud that this an area where much important work is already being led by Surrey Police, our office and partners in the areas highlighted by today’s report.

“It’s so important that this is backed by tough measures that place the pressure from investigations squarely on the perpetrator.”

In 2020/21, the Office of the PCC provided more funds to address violence against women and girls than ever before.

The PCC invested heavily in services for victims of rape and sexual assault, with over £500,000 of funding made available to local support organisations.

With this money the OPCC has provided a wide range of local services, including counselling, dedicated services for children, a confidential helpline and professional support for individuals navigating the criminal justice system.

The PCC will continue to work closely with all our dedicated service providers to ensure that victims of rape and sexual assault in Surrey are properly supported.

In 2020, Surrey Police and Sussex Police established a new group with the South East Crown Prosecution Service and Kent Police to drive improvements in the outcomes of rape reports.

As part of the Force’s Rape & Serious Sexual Offence Improvement Strategy 2021/22, Surrey Police maintain a dedicated Rape and Serious Offence Investigation Team, supported by a new team of Sexual Offence Liaison Officers and more officers trained as Rape Investigation Specialists.

Detective Chief Inspector Adam Tatton from Surrey Police’s Sexual Offences Investigation Team said: “We welcome the findings of this review which has highlighted several issues across the whole of the justice system. We will be looking at all the recommendations so we can improve even further but I want to reassure victims in Surrey that our team has been working to address many of these issues already.

“One example highlighted in the review are the concerns some victims have about giving up personal items such as mobile phones during the course of an investigation. This is completely understandable. In Surrey we offer replacement mobile devices as well as work with victims to set clear parameters on what will be looked at to reduce unnecessary intrusion into their private lives.

“Every victim who comes forward will be listened to, treated with respect and compassion and a thorough investigation will be launched. In April 2019, the PCC’s Office helped us to create a team of 10 victim focused investigating officers who are responsible for supporting adult victims of rape and serious sexual abuse through the investigation and subsequent criminal justice process.

“We will do everything we can to bring a case to court and if the evidence does not allow for a prosecution we will work with other agencies to support victims and take steps to protect the public from dangerous people.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend standing next to a police car

PCC backs Surrey Police summer drink and drug-drive crackdown

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

A summer campaign to crack down on drink and drug-drivers kicks off today (Friday 11 June), in conjunction with the Euro 2020 football tournament.

Both Surrey Police and Sussex Police will deploy increased resources to tackle one of the five most common causes of fatal and serious injury collisions on our roads.

The goal is to keep all road users safe, and to take robust action against those who put the lives of themselves and others at risk.
Working with partners including Sussex Safer Roads Partnership and Drive Smart Surrey, the forces are urging motorists to stay onside of the law – or face the penalties.

Chief Inspector Michael Hodder, of the Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “Our aim is to reduce the possibility of people being injured or killed through collisions whereby the driver has been under the influence of drink or drugs.

“However, we cannot do this on our own. I need your help to take responsibility for your own actions and the actions of others – do not drive if you are going to drink or use drugs, as the consequences can be fatal for yourself or an innocent member of the public.

“And if you suspect someone is driving under the influence of drink or drugs, report it to us immediately – you could save a life.

“We all know that drinking or using drugs whilst driving is not only dangerous, but socially unacceptable, and my plea is that we work together to protect everyone on the roads from harm.

“There are a lot of miles to cover across Surrey and Sussex, and while we may not be everywhere all the time, we could be anywhere.”

The dedicated campaign runs from Friday 11 June to Sunday 11 July, and is in addition to routine roads policing 365 days a year.

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend said: “Even having one drink and getting behind the wheel of a vehicle can have fatal results. The message couldn’t be clearer – just don’t take the risk.

“People will of course want to enjoy the summer, particularly as lockdown restrictions begin to ease. But that reckless and selfish minority who choose to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs are gambling with their own and other people’s lives.

“Those caught driving over the limit should be in no doubt that they will face the consequences of their actions.”

In keeping with previous campaigns, the identities of anyone arrested for drink or drug-driving during this period and subsequently convicted, will be published on our website and social media channels.

Chief Insp Hodder added: “We hope that by maximising publication of this campaign, people will think twice about their actions. We appreciate that the vast majority of motorists are safe and competent road users, but there is always a minority who ignore our advice and risk lives.

“Our advice to everyone – whether you’re watching the football or socialising with friends or family this summer – is to drink or drive; never both. Alcohol affects different people in different ways, and the only way to guarantee you are safe to drive is to have no alcohol at all. Even one pint of beer, or one glass of wine, can be enough to put you over the limit and significantly impair your ability to drive safely.

“Think about it before you get behind the wheel. Don’t let your next journey be your last.”

Between April 2020 and March 2021, 291 people casualties were involved in a drink or drug-driving related collision in Sussex; three of these were fatal.

Between April 2020 and March 2021, 212 people casualties were involved in a drink or drug-driving related collision in Surrey; two of these were fatal.

The consequences of drink or drug-driving could include the following:
A minimum 12 month ban;
An unlimited fine;
A possible prison sentence;
A criminal record, which could affect your current and future employment;
An increase in your car insurance;
Trouble travelling to countries such as the USA;
You could also kill or seriously injure yourself or someone else.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online. www.crimestoppers-uk.org

If you know someone is driving while over the limit or after taking drugs, call 999.

New Safer Streets funding set to boost crime prevention in Surrey

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

Over £300,000 in funding from the Home Office has been secured by Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend to help tackle burglary and neighbourhood crime in East Surrey.

The ‘Safer Streets’ funding will be awarded to Surrey Police and partners after a bid was submitted in March for the Godstone and Bletchingley areas of Tandridge to support a reduction in incidents of burglary, particularly from sheds and outhouses, where bikes and other equipment have been targeted.

Lisa Townsend has also today welcomed the announcement of a further round of funding that will focus on projects to make women and girls feel safer over the next year, a key priority for the new PCC.

Plans for the Tandridge project, starting in June, include the use of cameras to deter and catch thieves, and extra resources such as locks, secure cabling for bikes and shed alarms to help local people prevent the loss of their valuables.

The initiative will receive £310,227 in Safer Street funding which will be backed by a further £83,000 from the PCCs own budget and from Surrey Police.

It is part of the second round of the Home Office’s Safer Streets funding which has seen £18m shared across 40 areas of England and Wales for projects in local communities.

It follows the completion of an original Safer Streets project in Spelthorne, that provided over half a million pounds to improve security and reduce anti-social behaviour at properties in Stanwell during 2020 and early 2021.

The third round of the Safer Streets Fund, which opens today, provides another opportunity to bid from a fund of £25 million for the year‚ÄØ2021/22 for projects designed to improve the safety of women and girls.‚ÄØThe PCC’s office will be working with partners in the county to prepare its bid in the coming weeks.

Commissioner Lisa Townsend said: “Burglary and shed break-ins cause misery in our local communities so I am delighted that the proposed project in Tandridge has been awarded substantial funds to tackle this issue.

“This funding will not only improve the safety and security of residents living in that area but will also act as a real deterrent to criminals who have been targeting properties and boost the prevention work our police teams are already carrying out.

“The Safer Streets Fund is an excellent initiative by the Home Office and I was particularly pleased to see the third round of funding open today with a focus on enhancing the safety of women and girls in our neighbourhoods.

“This is a really important issue to me as your PCC and I look forward to working with Surrey Police and our partners to make sure we put forward a bid that can make a real difference to our communities in Surrey.”

Borough Commander for Tandridge Inspector Karen Hughes said: “I’m really excited to bring this project for Tandridge to life in partnership with our colleagues in Tandridge District Council and the Office of the PCC.

“We’re committed to a safer Tandridge for everyone and the Safer Streets funding will help Surrey Police to go even further in preventing burglaries and ensuring local people feel safe, as well as enabling local officers to spend more time listening and providing advice in our communities.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend

“We must drive criminal gangs and their drugs out of our communities in Surrey” – PCC Lisa Townsend hails ‘county lines’ crackdown

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

The new Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend has hailed a week of action to crackdown on ‘county lines’ criminality as an important step in the effort to drive drug gangs out of Surrey.

Surrey Police, together with partner agencies, carried out pro-active operations across the county and in neighbouring areas to disrupt the activities of criminal networks.

Officers made 11 arrests, seized drugs including crack cocaine, heroin and cannabis and recovered weapons including knives and a converted handgun as the county played its part in a national ‘Intensification Week’ to target organised drug crime.

Eight warrants were executed and officers seized cash, 26 mobile phones and disrupted at least eight ‘county lines’ as well as identifying and/or safeguarding 89 young or vulnerable people.

In addition, police teams across the county were out in communities raising awareness of the issue with over 80 educational visits made.

For more information on the action taken in Surrey – click here.

County lines is the name given to drug dealing which involves highly organised criminal networks using phone lines to facilitate the supply of class A drugs – such as heroin and crack cocaine.

The lines are valuable commodities to dealers, and are protected with extreme violence and intimidation.

She said: “County lines continues to be a growing threat to our communities so the kind of police intervention we saw last week is vital to disrupting the activities of these organised gangs.

The PCC joined local officers and PCSOs in Guildford last week where they teamed up with Crimestoppers on the last leg of their ad-van tour of the county warning the public of the danger signs.

“These criminal networks seek to exploit and groom young and vulnerable people to act as couriers and dealers and often use violence to control them.

“As lockdown restrictions ease over this summer, those involved in this sort of criminality might see that as an opportunity. Tackling this important issue and driving these gangs out of our communities is going to be a key priority for me as your PCC.

“Whilst the targeted police action last week will have sent a strong message out to county lines drug dealers – that effort must be sustained going forward.

“We all have a part to play in that and I would ask our communities in Surrey to remain vigilant to any suspicious activity that could be related to drug dealing and report it immediately. Equally, if you know of anyone being exploited by these gangs – please pass that information to police, or anonymously to Crimestoppers, so that action can be taken.”