Category: National policing

Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend

“Selfish and unacceptable” – Commissioner condemns actions of M25 service station protesters

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend has condemned the actions of protesters who blocked fuel stations on the M25 this morning as ‘selfish and unacceptable’.

Surrey Police officers were called to motorway services at both Cobham and Clacket Lane at around 7am this morning following reports that a number of protesters had caused damage at both sites and were blocking access to fuel with some gluing themselves to pumps and signs. Eight arrests have been made so far and more are expected to follow.

Commissioner Lisa Townsend said: “Yet again this morning we have seen damage caused and disruption to ordinary people’s lives in the name of protest.

“The selfish actions of these protesters are completely unacceptable and I am pleased to see the swift response by Surrey Police who are working hard to minimise the impact on those using these areas. Unfortunately some of these protesters have glued themselves to various objects and removing them safely is a complex process that will take some time.

“Motorway service stations provide an important facility for motorists, particularly lorries and other vehicles transporting vital goods across the country.

“The right to peaceful and lawful protest is important in a democratic society but the actions this morning step far beyond what is acceptable and serves only to cause disruption to those people going about their daily business.

“This has again resulted in valuable police resources being used to respond to the situation when their time could have been better spent policing in our communities.”

hands holding each other

Commissioner welcomes major step towards new Victims’ Law

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend has welcomed the launch of a consultation on a brand-new law that will enhance the support for victims in England and Wales.

Plans for the first-ever Victims’ Law aim to improve engagement with victims of crime during the criminal justice process and include new requirements to hold agencies such as the police, Crown Prosecution Service and the courts to greater account. The consultation will also ask whether to increase the role of Police and Crime Commissioners as part of providing better oversight across the criminal justice system.

The Law will amplify the voices of communities and victims of crime, including a more explicit requirement for prosecutors to meet and understand the impact of a case on the victims before making charges against offenders. The burden of crime will be focused on offenders, including an increase to the amount that they are required to pay back to the community.

The Ministry of Justice also confirmed it will go further to specifically protect the victims of sexual offences and modern slavery from re-experiencing trauma, by speeding up the national roll out of pre-recorded evidence in courts.

It follows the publication of the Government’s Rape Review earlier this year, that called for better recognition of the impact of the criminal justice system on victims.

The Government has today published the first national criminal justice system and adult rape scorecards, accompanied by a report on the progress made since the Review was published. The publication of scorecards was one of the actions included in the Review, with a focus on the whole of criminal justice system working to increase the number of rape cases reaching court and to improve support for victims.

Surrey has the lowest level of recorded cases of rape per 1000 people. Surrey Police have taken the recommendations of the Review seriously, including developing a rape improvement plan and rape improvement group, new perpetrator programme and case progression clinics.

Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend said: “I greatly welcome the proposals outlined today to improve the support that is offered to victims. Every individual affected by a crime deserves our absolute attention across the whole system to ensure they are fully heard and included in achieving justice. It is important this includes progress towards protecting more victims from further harm as a result of the impact of criminal processes such as facing an offender in court.

“I am pleased that the measures proposed will not only make the criminal justice system work harder to achieve better outcomes, but that it will keep a core focus on increasing the penalties for those who cause harm. As Police and Crime Commissioners we play a key role in improving the policing response as well as community support for victims. I am committed to championing the rights of victims in Surrey, and embrace every opportunity for my office, Surrey Police and partners to enhance the service we provide.”

Rachel Roberts, Department Head of the Surrey Police Victim and Witness Care Unit said: “Victim participation and victim support is essential to the delivery of criminal justice. Surrey Police welcome the implementation of a Victims Law to ensure a future where victims’ rights are a key part of how we deliver overall justice and victim treatment is of utmost priority.

“This welcome piece of legislation we hope will transform victims’ experiences of the criminal justice system, ensuring that all victims have an active role in the process, have the right to be informed, supported, feel valued and able to make informed decisions. A Victims Law is an opportunity to ensure that all victim entitlements are delivered and those agencies who are responsible for doing this can be held to account.”

The Surrey Police Victim and Witness Care Unit is funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner to provide help victims of crime cope and, as far as possible, recover from their experiences.

Victims are supported to identify sources of help for their unique situation and to develop tailored care plans that last as long as they need them – from reporting a crime, through to court and beyond. Since the start of this year, the Unit has had contact with over 40,000 individuals, providing more than 900 individuals with ongoing support.

You can contact the Victim and Witness Care Unit on 01483 639949, or for more information visit: https://victimandwitnesscare.org.uk

Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend

PCC Lisa Townsend issues statement following death of Sir David Amess MP

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend has issued the following statement in response to the death of Sir David Amess MP on Friday:

“Like everyone I was appalled and horrified by the senseless murder of Sir David Amess MP and I would like to offer my deepest sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues and all those affected by the awful events of Friday afternoon.

“Our MPs and elected representatives have a crucial role to play in listening to and serving their constituents in our local communities and should be able to carry out that duty without fear of intimidation or violence. Politics by its very nature can illicit strong emotions but there can be absolutely no justification for the sickening assault that took place in Essex.

“I am sure the terrible events of Friday afternoon will have been felt across all of our communities and understandably concerns have been raised about the security of MPs across the country.

“Surrey Police have been in contact with all of the county’s MPs and have been co-ordinating with our partners both nationally and locally to ensure appropriate security advice is given to our elected representatives.

“Communities defeat terror and whatever our political beliefs, we must all stand together in the face of such an attack on our democracy.”

Commissioner Lisa Townsend responds as fresh injunction granted against Insulate Britain

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend said Insulate Britain protesters should ‘consider their future’ as new measures to prevent motorway protests could land activists with two years in prison or an unlimited fine.

A fresh court injunction was granted to Highways England this weekend, after new protests by the climate activists blocked sections of the M1, M4 and M25 in the tenth day of actions held in three weeks.

It comes as protesters have today been removed by the Metropolitan Police and partners from London’s Wandsworth Bridge and the Blackwall Tunnel.

Threatening that new offences will be treated as ‘contempt of court’, the injunction means that individuals staging protests on key routes may face prison time for their actions.

In Surrey, four days of protests on the M25 in September led to the arrest of 130 people. The Commissioner praised the swift actions of Surrey Police and has called on the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to join police forces in a firm response.

The new order covers motorways and A roads in and around London and enables police forces to submit evidence direct to Highways England in order to assist with the injunction process carried out by the courts.

It acts as a deterrent, by including more routes and further banning protesters who damage or attach themselves to road surfaces.

Commissioner Lisa Townsend said: “The disruption caused by Insulate Britain protesters continues to place road users and police officers in danger. It is pulling the resources of the police and other services away from individuals who need their help. This is not just about people being late to work; it could be the difference between whether police officers or other emergency responders are on the scene to save someone’s life.

“The public deserve to see coordinated action through the Justice System that is proportionate to the seriousness of these offences. I am pleased that this updated order includes providing more support for Surrey Police and other forces to work with Highways England and the courts to ensure that action is taken.

“My message to Insulate Britain protesters is that they should think very, very carefully about the impact that these actions will have on their future, and what a serious penalty or even jail time could mean for themselves and the people in their lives.”

Commissioner welcomes strong message as injunction gives police more powers

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

The Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend has welcomed news of a High Court Injunction that will give police more powers to prevent and respond to new protests expected to take place on the motorway network.

Home Secretary Priti Patel and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps applied for the injunction after a fifth day of protests were held by Insulate Britain across the UK. In Surrey, four protests have been held since last Monday, leading to the arrest of 130 people by Surrey Police.

The injunction granted to National Highways means that individuals staging new protests that involve obstructing the highway will face charges of contempt of court, and could see time in prison while held on remand.

It comes after Commissioner Lisa Townsend told The Times that she believed more powers were needed to deter protesters: “I think a short prison sentence may well form the deterrent that is needed, if people have to think very, very carefully about their future and what a criminal record might mean for them.

“I’m delighted to see this action by the Government, that sends a strong message that these protests that selfishly and seriously endanger

the public are unacceptable, and will be met with the full force of the law. It is important that individuals contemplating new protests reflect on the harm they could cause, and understand that they could face jail time if they continue.

“This injunction is a welcome deterrent that means our Police forces can focus on directing resources to where they are needed most, such as tackling serious and organised crime and supporting victims.”

Speaking to the national and local media, the Commissioner praised the response of Surrey Police to protests held in the last ten days, and gave thanks for the cooperation of the Surrey public in ensuring key routes were reopened as soon as was safely possible.

cars on a motorway

Commissioner praises Surrey Police response as arrests made in new M25 protest

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

The Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend has praised the response of Surrey Police to protests held on Surrey’s motorways by Insulate Britain.

It comes as a further 38 individuals were arrested this morning in a new protest on the M25.

Since last Monday 13th September, 130 people have been arrested by Surrey Police after four protests caused disruption to the M3 and M25.

The Commissioner said the response by Surrey Police was appropriate and that officers and staff across the Force were working hard to minimise further disruption:

“Obstructing a highway is an offence and I am pleased that Surrey Police’s response to these protests has been proactive and robust. People travelling in Surrey have a right to go about their business free of interruption. I am grateful that the support of the public has enabled the work of Surrey Police and partners to allow these routes to be reopened as quickly as is safe to do so.

“These protests are not only selfish but place significant demand on other areas of policing; reducing the resources available to help Surrey residents in need across the county.

The right to peaceful protest is important, but I urge anyone who is considering further action to carefully consider the very real and serious risk they are posing to members of the public, police officers and themselves.

“I am incredibly grateful for the work of Surrey Police and will continue to do everything I can to ensure the Force has the resources and support it needs to maintain the high standards of policing in Surrey.”

The response of Surrey Police officers is part of a coordinated effort by both officers and operational staff in a range of roles across Surrey. They include contact and deployment, intelligence, custody, public order and others.

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.”

“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.

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.

Surrey PCC: Amendments to Domestic Abuse Bill are a welcome boost for survivors

Posted on | by Surrey PCC

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey David Munro has welcomed fresh amendments towards a new set of domestic abuse laws saying they will improve the crucial support available to survivors.

The draft Domestic Abuse Bill contains new measures to enhance the response to domestic abuse by police forces, specialist services, local authorities and the courts.

Areas of the bill include criminalising more forms of abuse, greater support for those affected and help for survivors to get justice

The Bill, which is currently being considered by the House of Lords, had obligated councils to provide support to survivors and their families in places of refuge and other accommodation.

The PCC signed a petition led by SafeLives and Action for Children that urged the Government to widen this support to include community based services. Community services such as helplines account for around 70% of the assistance provided to those affected

A new amendment will now obligate local authorities to assess the impact of the Bill on their relationships and funding for all domestic abuse services. It includes a statutory review by Domestic Abuse Commissioner, that will further outline the role of community services.

The PCC said it was a welcome step that recognised the enormous impact domestic abuse has on individuals and families.

Community based services provide a confidential listening service and can offer a range of practical advice and therapeutic support for adults and children. As part of a coordinated response by local partners, they play a fundamental part in halting the cycle of abuse and empowering victims to live free from harm.

PCC David Munro said: “Physical and emotional abuse can have a devastating impact on survivors and families. I wholeheartedly welcome the steps outlined in this Bill to improve the support we can provide, whilst taking the toughest possible action against perpetrators.

“We owe it to every person affected by domestic abuse to be there with quality support when and where they need it, including for those who may find it harder to access refuge – for example individuals with disabilities, those with substance misuse problems, or those with older children.

Head of Policy and Commissioning for the PCC’s office Lisa Herrington said, “Victims need to know they are not alone. Community based services are there to listen without judgement and we know this is what survivors value the most. This includes helping survivors to flee safely, and for longer term support when they feel able to return to independent living.

“We work with partners across the county to achieve this, so it is essential that this coordinated response is supported.”

“Talking about abuse takes tremendous courage. Often a victim won’t want to engage with criminal justice agencies – they just want the abuse to stop.”

In 2020/21 the Office of the PCC provided close to £900,000 in funding to support domestic abuse organisations, including extra money to support both refuges and community services to overcome the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

At the height of first lockdown, this included working with Surrey County Council and partners to rapidly establish new refuge space for 18 families.

Since 2019, increased funding from the PCC’s office has also paid for more domestic abuse caseworkers in Surrey Police.

From April, the extra money raised by the PCC’s council tax rise means a further £600,000 will be made available to support victims in Surrey, including through domestic abuse services.

Anyone who is worried about, or affected by domestic abuse is encouraged to contact Surrey Police via 101, online or using social media. Always dial 999 in an emergency. Support is available by contacting the Your Sanctuary helpline 01483 776822 9am-9pm every day or by visiting the Healthy Surrey website.