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
Illegal waste and firearms licencing on the agenda at Deputy PCC’s Rural Crime Forum
Deputy PCC Ellie Vesey-Thompson hosted the latest Rural Crime Forum where farmers and landowners shared their views on key issues
Nearly 300 motoring offences identified during week-long operation on the M25 in Surrey
Lisa Townsend joined Operation Tramline to target dangerous and reckless driving on the Surrey stretch of the M25
Have your say on community safety!
Lisa Townsend is calling on residents to take part in a survey about their experiences living in the county which will help shape the future of community safety in our neighbourhoods.