Herts Police and Crime Commissioner thanks public saying officers are 'policing by consent'

The messages came during an update on policing and criminal justice in the region after a month of lockdown restrictions being in place due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The PCC also expressed his gratitude for emergency workers, frontline personnel and the volunteers working through the crisis.

Mr Lloyd said: “This has been an extremely difficult time, most of all for those who have lost loved ones to this terrible virus, but I have been hugely impressed by how Hertfordshire has come together as a community to fight it.

“I would like to thank all residents and businesses for the outstanding way they have followed the government’s advice to stay home.

"My heartfelt gratitude extends to the dedication of our emergency workers, frontline key personnel and volunteers, who are pulling together to keep us safe.

“I can reassure you all that our police force is standing up well to the pressure. Officers have sufficient supplies of PPE equipment and they are continuing to respond to emergency calls and investigate offences.

"Crime is generally down by a third across the county, and the police are aware on areas of concern including shop burglaries, excessive speeding and fly tipping.

"For those subject to domestic abuse, support is available from our Beacon system care centre.

"Lockdown laws are being enforced by the principle of policing by consent with officers seeking to educate rather than use heavy handed tactics.

“Each week I chair a meeting of the Hertfordshire Criminal Justice Board where, together with the CPS, courts, prison, probation and youth justice services, we address coronavirus issues. Everyone is working incredibly hard to keep the justice system functioning, including using video conferencing to enable priority hearings.

"We are aware of many of the issues and concerns that victims of crime and witness may face and are offering support to those in need.

“The message in Hertfordshire is a positive one and it's a tribute to the fact that we have a police force which is fully part of its community and in turn is embraced and supported by it.

“However, we have many challenges to face as the lockdown continues. It’s therefore vital that we all approach these next few weeks with same spirit and discipline as we have done for the last month.”

Hertfordshire Police are asking residents who want to report a COVID-19 related incident, such as a mass gathering, to use the online methods of reporting where possible, which can be found at www.herts.police.uk/Information-and-services/About-us/Contact.

If you have any other queries relating to coronavirus, please visit the website for more information at www.hertscommissioner.org/coronavirus.