More Questions on Zero Tolerance

This is my answer to a member of public who has sent a series of questions to all candidates:

1.    If elected, what would be your first priority task?

Actually it would be to gain the confidence of our demoralised and understandably angry police force. But that is not what you mean. I have a number of priorities however let me highlight the most high profile of them all. I would introduce zero tolerance policing in an area where street crime (alcohol related violence) is increasing. Alongside which I would introduce a program of community payback delivered as an alternative to the criminal justice system by the police.  

2.    What methods would you use to complete this task (e.g. project
plan, action plan with rough outlines of steps required to complete the
task – please list sub-tasks required)

There would be a process of consultation involved - most particularly with the police force itself. However, we would need to set in place voluntary sector support for the community payback element of the scheme. Also for wet rooms for sobering people up having taken them off the streets. We would need to consult the local authority concerned with regard to section 27 dispersal orders. We would need to recruit Specials to reinforce our regular police officers on a one to one basis in the target area. We would need to consult the Police and Crime Panel. We would need to use our statisticians to identify the area to be focused on.

3.    What is your timescale for completion of this task?

This is an ongoing task. We would focus on one area for a period of time (to be determined in consultation) and then focus on another area.

4.    How will you measure the outcome as successful or not?

The crime statistics and the reaction of the general public. We will consult at every stage.

5.    How will I, as a member of the public, be able to measure your
performance on this and other tasks?

You will see the difference. However please note that I myself will be highly visible and accessible. I will be discussing outcomes with the public.

6.    What actual difference will you make to Devon and Cornwall’s
crime levels?

The answer is significant. Currently we are seeing a year on year rise in violent crime of 10% and a 12% rise in sex crimes like rape. That is quite atrocious. I would certainly hope that that will change.