The plan will reduce senior police ranks to fund more constables for local, visible policing in Devon and Cornwall.
People don’t want officers stuck behind desks. They don’t want officers on pointless projects. I was thrilled about the recent announcement. The Chief Constable plans to cut senior ranks. This will boost the number of constables. More constables will be out in the community.
Chief Constable Vaughan spoke at a budget meeting. He wants to move millions from senior roles. This funds more “worker bees” as police constables. He will reduce officers like Assistant Chief Constables. He’ll also reduce Chief Superintendents and Chief Inspectors.
He thinks the force has too many leaders. He prioritizes local and visible policing. The Chief Superintendents’ Association agrees with him. Having good leaders is vital. The police force has 3,610 officers. Getting the right balance of leaders matters.
Extra council tax and government help us. Our communities also contribute to policing. We will make the force more visible. We’re expanding the Street Focus project too. This tackles antisocial behavior and drug dealing.
Local policing helps Devon and Cornwall. It brings several key community benefits. Neighbourhood officers work with locals closely. They address local problems together. This helps stop crime before it starts. Good community ties improve crime solving. Information flows well, boosting investigations.
If done right, it makes people feel safer. Visible police build trust in the community. This lowers the fear of crime for everyone. Officers learn about local issues. Then, they tailor their policing to the needs of the area. Local policing creates safer communities. It fosters cooperation and understanding. It solves problems and prevents crime. It improves life for all residents. The Chief Constable and I plan to deliver this vision.