As the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, I have the privilege of witnessing the incredible dedication of our police officers, staff, and community partners. Every day, these individuals work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities, often in ways that go unnoticed by the public. Their efforts, whether high-profile or behind the scenes, are critical to maintaining trust and security across our region.
A shining example of this dedication can be seen in the recent recognition of a CCTV operator from Exeter City Council. This vigilant operator played a pivotal role in bringing a sexual predator to justice. By closely monitoring activity and identifying suspicious behaviour, they acted decisively, relaying crucial information to police officers. Thanks to their sharp observation and quick response, the predator was arrested, prosecuted, and ultimately removed as a threat to public safety.
This case highlights the importance of collaboration between police and community partners, like local councils, in preventing and addressing crime. The use of technology, such as CCTV systems, has become an indispensable tool in modern policing, enabling faster response times and more effective interventions. The success of this operation underscores how invaluable these partnerships and tools are in protecting our residents. My office has invested or facilitated hundreds of thousands of pounds in our CCTV systems across the two counties since I took office in 2016, and will continue to do so, whether it’s an expansion, upgrade or improved linkages with the police.
The bravery and professionalism demonstrated by this CCTV operator are matched by countless officers and staff across Devon and Cornwall. Take, for example, the exemplary career of retired Detective Superintendent Mike West, who was recently awarded the King’s Policing Medal. Over his 30-year career, Mike demonstrated remarkable leadership in tackling serious crimes, including homicides, kidnappings, and counter-terrorism cases. His dedication serves as an inspiration to all, showing how experience, expertise, and teamwork can deliver justice and peace of mind to victims and their families.
While individuals like Mike and the Exeter CCTV operator deserve special recognition, their achievements also reflect the collective effort of everyone involved in policing. Day in and day out, officers on the front line respond to emergencies, protect vulnerable people, and address crimes ranging from theft to violence. Behind them, there is a network of staff and volunteers who work just as hard to support investigations, analyse intelligence, and provide administrative assistance.
A notable example of proactive collaboration is the tri-service safety officer program, a unique initiative in Devon and Cornwall that integrates police, fire, and health services. These officers focus on early intervention, prevention, and building community resilience. By addressing issues before they escalate, they reduce demand on emergency services and ensure that people receive the support they need.
Another cornerstone of our policing approach is community engagement. Through Community Safety Partnerships, police work closely with councils, health services, and local organisations to tackle issues like anti-social behaviour, substance misuse, and domestic violence. These partnerships need to step up stronger to deal with the relentless fear on our streets linked to these issues.
While the rewards of policing are immense, the pressure on our officers and staff are significant. Many work long hours, often in dangerous situations, to protect the public. Their commitment comes with personal sacrifices, impacting their time with family and friends. This dedication deserves our deepest gratitude and respect. It is also a reminder of the importance of providing our officers and staff with more resources, more training, and better support so they can excel in their roles.
As your Police and Crime Commissioner, it is my responsibility to ensure that these resources are in place. This includes ensuring there is a leader at the helm of operational policing that can drive the necessary improvements and focus to enable the frontline to deliver to our expectations. I am delighted to have appointed our new Chief Constable James Vaughan and am confident his track record in performance improvement will prove invaluable as we strive to deliver a police force you can be proud of. Alongside this, resident and business input is welcomed to shape our policing priorities, and initiatives like my office’s Your Safety, Your Say survey allows everyone of any age to share their views and help guide our approach.
The work carried out daily by the police and our partners is the foundation of our community’s safety and resilience. Whether it’s a CCTV operator identifying a criminal, an officer responding to an emergency, or a volunteer supporting a community program, each contribution matters. Together, these efforts create a ripple effect, enhancing the quality of life for everyone in Devon and Cornwall.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to all members of Devon & Cornwall Police, our partners, and the communities we serve. Your unwavering commitment ensures that our region remains one of the safest and welcoming place to live, work, and visit.
By working together, we can continue to build a stronger, safer, and more resilient Devon and Cornwall – one where everyone can thrive with the confidence that they are protected by a network of dedicated individuals who do their utmost every single day of the year.
