New “local policing teams” launched in Essex Police

A NEW model of policing in Essex with “local policing teams” has been launched – with 500 officers moved “to work under the direct control of local police commanders.”

Each of the county’s ten policing districts, under the direction of a local Chief Inspector, will now have a team of officers responsible for responding to and investigating crime and other community concerns. From today [Monday September 1] Essex Police is also introducing dedicated domestic abuse investigation teams, code named Op Juno, across the county.

According to the police and crime commissioner’s office, “the reorganisation recognises the importance of local policing, clear accountability to communities and strong understanding local problems.”

A policing ‘hub’ will operate on each district. Each hub will be led by a local inspector and “will take a particular interest in dealing with issues such as anti-social behaviour, safeguarding repeat and vulnerable victims and tackling drug and alcohol misuse.”

Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh said: “Local policing is at the very heart of how I believe the public want policing delivered in the county. The changes we are making demonstrate our commitment to local policing.

“The development of local teams, supported by the new policing hubs, recognises the fact that communities want officers with good local knowledge who really understand their local issues.

“Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) visibly patrolling their beat continues to be a key part of the policing style in Essex. I understand and agree with the importance residents and businesses attach to this local presence.”

Nick Alston, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “At the heart of the Police and Crime Plan for Essex is the concept of local solutions for local problems, and I know Chief Constable Kavanagh remains committed to this approach. Returning officers to local supervision ensures ongoing ownership of crime and ASB incidents by local officers.”

September 1 also sees the introduction of dedicated domestic abuse investigation teams, code named Op Juno, across the county. Specialist officers and staff will oversee all domestic abuse investigations as well as work closely with partner agencies ensuring the best possible support for victims and a robust, co-ordinated response to those responsible.