We want to hear your views about policing
IWANT to start this week by acknowledging that there has been a lot of discussion lately, in the media and on social media, about public confidence in police conduct during warrants and operations.
Please rest assured that this particular issue is of great concern to me and I am working hard to hold the police to account.
I have asked the Chief Constable to further examine these instances, where police conduct has been called into question, and give me assurances that the relevant findings and learnings are carried forward by the service.
The Police and Crime Board also met last week with a focus on the topics of public confidence and vulnerable women.
The board meet on a monthly basis with the aim of helping me to carry out my role as Police and Crime Commissioner, this includes overseeing the delivery of the Police and Crime Plan and examining the work, performance, key projects and budget of the police and partners.
Board members include myself, the Chief Constable and senior leaders from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) as well as the police. You can read more about the Police and Crime Board, at the website www.avon andsomerset-pcc.gov.uk/reportspublications/police-crime-boardreports/
Some of you may be aware of an incident which took place at a petrol station in Hengrove, on the morning of Thursday, September 9. A man armed with a knife was safely detained by officers after two hours of negotiations and arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Local residents may have heard a number of bangs which came from police distraction devices and a baton round which was discharged.
Thankfully, incidents such as this are rare in Avon and Somerset and neighbourhood officers will be patrolling the area to reassure the local community as investigations continue.
As your PCC, I am the bridge between the police and the public and I write this column as a way to strengthen communications and increase transparency.
It is in this spirit, that I recently accepted a role as the national lead for economic and cyber crime.
Cyber crime and fraud are two of the fastest growing crime types in the country, almost doubling year on year.
In fact, both crimes are growing so quickly that, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), people are more likely to be a victim of fraud or cybercrime than any other crime.
It is for this reason that I decided to take on the role, as I feel that this is an area of work where I can make the most difference to the lives of residents of Avon and Somerset and beyond.
Finally, there is just one week left until the Police and Crime Survey closes!
The purpose of the survey is to hear about which policing issues matter most to you.
It is, therefore, so very important that you please take the time to complete the survey, as the findings will directly shape the future priorities and direction of Avon and Somerset Police.
To complete the survey, visit: www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk/ about/police-and-crime-survey/