Police and Crime Commissioner praises force for crime reduction on national 999 heroes day

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has praised Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary for reducing overall crime rates by 8% over the last 12 months.

The praise comes on 999 day, the national day to celebrate emergency service heroes. The national day of support was founded in 2016, and today approximately 2 million people work and volunteer across the emergency services.

This year, the Commissioner has commended the Constabulary for its contribution to keeping people safe by reducing crime beyond the national trend. The praise comes after the Office of National Statistics (ONS) released its annual report in July which demonstrated the progress the force has made over the last year.

The Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones says the force is making strides because it is “doing things differently now” since the appointment of Chief Constable Scott Chilton in February 2023.

Paying tribute to the Chief’s leadership and the hard work of officers and staff, she said: “Police officers and staff do an incredibly difficult job in ever challenging circumstances.

“These statistics speak for themselves, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary is doubling down on bicycle theft, public order, burglary, stalking, vehicle crime, sexual offences and robbery.

“The results demonstrate the Chief Constable’s vision, to make Hampshire and Isle of Wight safe for everyone. The back to basics approach he has implemented is paying dividends; there is less crime and more people facing justice which is exactly what the public want.

“The reduction in serious violence and crimes that affect neighbourhoods like theft, damage and burglary are testament to the dedication and commitment of officers and staff, supported by volunteers and emergency service colleagues, who work so hard to prevent and tackle crime.”

The reduction in crime rates is just one element of the force’s progress over the last 12 months. Arrest and charge rates have also increased, 101 call waiting times have significantly decreased and response times have also improved.

“As Commissioner I am providing the force with investment in areas which enable a better public service and I am supporting the Chief by opening more police stations and recruiting more officers.

“On national 999 day, I want to thank all the officers and staff for their dedication, commitment, and the personal sacrifices they make every day to help others.”

Image:
PCC Donna Jones & Chief Constable Scott Chilton with Cosham police officers and staff at the opening event of the new joint Police and Fire Station on 4 September 2024