My priorities

I thank very much the 41,337 residents who voted for me in the PCC elections.

Also the other three candidates, and those who voted for them, for their commitment to the democratic process.

I shall continue to work for all residents in Cleveland.

I view the PCC role as a “work in progress” and am encouraged by the increase in voter turnout, in winning a clear majority in all four boroughs, and in my overall majority increasing.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Among my early priorities will be to draw up and consult on a new Police & Crime Plan.

Also to appoint a permanent Chief Constable, who I will hold to account on your behalf for the force, tackling crime and disorder, and work with in taking forward planned changes and improvements.

My local meetings related to community engagement will continue.

I will also develop further collaboration, as well as my support for local safety projects.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Crime is rising across the country and Cleveland is seen as a relatively high crime area.

Recent changes in crime recording processes, increased confidence by victims in coming forward, greater resources committed to tackling domestic and sexual abuse, and supporting other vulnerable people, all relate to this.

Increases in some acquisitive crime have inevitable links to austerity and welfare reforms impacting locally.

Cleveland police are dedicated and committed people, with considerable community support.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Regarding major crime, officers are currently investigating three recent homicides and a shooting.

As a further example, on May 3 among other things over 24 hours, police responded to 261, 999 calls, 852 non-999 calls and, within that, 67 concerns for safety calls and 23 missing persons.

I look forward to continuing working with Cleveland Police, other partner organisations, residents and community groups in helping make the Cleveland area safer’.

Barry Coppinger,

Police & Crime Commissioner for Cleveland.