PCC praises Officers for creation of a High Harm Team in the New Forest
24 March 2023
The Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, has praised Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary for creating a new team focused on areas of most harm in local communities.
Priorities for the New Forest High Harm Team include targeting violent and repeat offenders and those committing serious crime, drug-related harm, and working with other forces.
PCC Donna Jones said: “I am delighted this team has been set up to tackle serious crime. The New Forest does experience cross-border criminal activity which needs to be tackled and specialist teams like this means officers can focus on targeting those who are regularly committing crime.
“The public have told me they want more officers on the streets and I hope this proactive approach with high-visibility patrols will strengthen the police presence in the area, support neighbourhood policing teams and help people feel safer.
“Residents, businesses and visitors to the New Forest will all benefit.
“As Commissioner, my top priorities are increasing police numbers and improving police visibility; plans to expand the team in the future have my full support.”
The High Harm Team is based at Lyndhurst Police Station but will cover the whole of the New Forest. It comprises of four police officers with plans to expand in the future.