Police to be 'more visible on streets' pledges Commissioner

NEW Police and Crime Commissioner Shaun Wright is promising value for money and  more visible policing after setting his first budget for South Yorkshire Police.

The Police And Crime Panel yesterday yesterday approved the maximum precept increase of £5, which will mean average Band D council tax payers will be contributing £142.55 a year towards policing.

Mr Wright, who was elected in November, has pledged:

·         More officers to tackle child sex exploitation.

·         400 more special constables over the next two years.

·         The replacement of 60 police officers who are due to retire this year.

·         More focus on victims support services.

·         More efforts to curb drink and drug-related crime.

He said: “The primary aim is that my budget will still allow the force to deliver a greater police visibility in our neighbourhoods and one that leads to a decrease in criminal activity.

“I recognise that people want to see a greater police presence and to know that not only petty crime, but also serious and organised criminal activity is efficiently and effectively reduced.”

Efficienty savings under consideration include the possible centralisation of CCTV control and CID units and the merging of mounted units with West Yorkshire Police.

Mr Wright said: “I will do all in my power to ensure we have a fully-accountable police service that has the necessary resources to combat crime.

“That having been said, the police will maintain their focus on local neighbourhood policing as a force that looks like the community it serves.”

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