Crackdown on Crime: Police Launch Extensive Patrols Across Devon and Cornwall

Over 2,000 Hours of Extra Patrols Lead to 62 Arrests in Just Three Months

Devon and Cornwall Police have intensified their efforts to combat anti-social behaviour (ASB) and serious violence, resulting in a significant increase in patrol hours and a corresponding rise in arrests. In just the first three months since the launch of a targeted policing approach in May, officers have conducted more than 2,000 hours of extra patrols across key towns and cities, leading to 62 arrests and numerous other enforcement actions.

Hotspots Identified for Increased Patrols

The crackdown, backed by £1 million of Home Office funding, focuses on identified crime hotspots across 13 towns and cities in the region, including Barnstaple, Exeter, Newquay, Plymouth, Torquay, and Truro. These areas were selected based on crime data, ensuring that officers are deployed where they are needed most.

In this initial phase, the strategy has seen 2,104 additional hours of police foot patrols. Officers have engaged with over 8,500 members of the public, visited 265 premises in hotspot areas, and held multiple public engagement events, including 12 ‘coffee with cops’ sessions and nine public meetings.

Impactful Results from Proactive Policing

This proactive policing effort has already yielded substantial results. The increased visibility of police on the streets has not only deterred crime but also led to:

• 132 intelligence submissions
• 62 arrests
• 70 stop searches resulting in nine offensive weapons seized, more than 30 drug seizures, over 35 recoveries of stolen goods, and more than 30 alcohol seizures
• 31 Public Protection Notices or safeguarding referrals
• 37 Public Spaces Protection Orders issued

Chief Inspector Tim Evans, who is leading the project, highlighted the effectiveness of this approach, stating that the high visibility of officers on patrol has been well-received by residents. The public has expressed positive feedback, appreciating the increased police presence in their communities.

Expansion of Patrols During Summer Months

As the summer season progresses, Newquay, in particular, will see an increase in patrols, with funding secured for daily patrols throughout the summer. Additional patrols are also planned for Exmouth, Newton Abbot, Penzance, and Paignton, further extending the reach of this policing effort.

Street Marshals Join the Effort

In addition to the police, street marshals have been introduced in various towns and cities to complement the policing efforts. Funded with an additional £200,000 from Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, these marshals work closely with police officers, participating in joint patrols and providing a uniformed presence that reassures the public.

Street marshal patrols are now active in locations such as Barnstaple, Bideford, Exeter, Exmouth, Newton Abbot, Newquay, Penzance, Plymouth, Truro, and St Austell. Alison Hernandez expressed confidence in the positive impact of these patrols, noting that they not only disrupt crime but also build stronger connections between law enforcement and the community.

Community Safety at the Forefront

This approach is part of a broader effort under the Street Focus project, which involves collaboration between police, local councils, and other partners to address community safety concerns comprehensively.

For more information about the ongoing efforts to enhance safety across Devon and Cornwall, visit Street Focus.