Whilst not a separate priority in my Police and Crime Plan, rural crime is nevertheless a key area of focus for my team. My Deputy Commissioner has taken a lead on rural crime issues, and I am pleased that we now have dedicated rural crime teams in place.
Key areas of progress during 2022/23 have included:
- Training to ensure an improved understanding of rural crime amongst contact centre staff, ensuring that they are better able to identify risks and provide support to residents making contact.
- Use of national uplift capacity in some areas to introduce additional rural crime resources, such as in Mole Valley where the Borough Commander has introduced a dedicated post.
- Ongoing representation on the National Rural Crime Network and South-East Rural Partnership, which both champion a better understanding of crime in rural areas and effective ways to help to keep rural communities safe.
- Regular engagement with rural communities, including face-to-face meetings with farmers.
Latest News
Statement from Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend on the abolition of PCCs
Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend has released a statement after the Government confirmed the PCC role would be abolished.
AI deepfake Commissioner created to raise awareness of new Question Everything fraud campaign
A new video featuring 'deepfake' Lisa Townsend aims to prevent Surrey residents from falling victim to AI-generated fraud.
Plans approved for new Eastern HQ development in Leatherhead
Provisional planning permission has been granted for a new Eastern Divisional Headquarters in Leatherhead.