Over 100 arrests made in Hertfordshire town centres for winter crime crackdown
More than 100 suspects have been arrested as part of a countywide initiative to help keep town centres in Hertfordshire safe this winter.
Neighbourhood Policing Teams have had an increased presence in town centres and retail areas throughout December and into the new year, targeting crime and anti-social behaviour.
This comes after what police describe as a successful Safer Town Centre campaign last summer, tackling retail and street crime. The latest winter initiative also includes an additional focus on violence against women and girls.
As of today (Wednesday, January 7), 122 arrests have been made in town centres across the county since the beginning of December. Police officers are also working with local councils and retail partners to help keep shops, venues and locations safe.
Superintendent Dave Cooke said: “While we work to keep our town centres safe throughout the year, the winter has seen a step up in activity targeting shoplifting, personal robberies and crimes often associated with the night time economy such as sexual offences.
“With these arrests we have removed more than 100 suspects from town centre streets, hopefully reassuring residents that they continue to be safe places to visit.”
The increased police activity is the constabulary’s response to the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire Jonathan Ash-Edwards’ Safer Town Centres focus.
Mr Ash-Edwards said: "Our town centres are a vital part of Hertfordshire's economy and ensuring people can visit them to socialise, shop and work safely is a core priority in my Police and Crime Plan. The Safer Town Centre campaign is delivery in action.
“I'm grateful for the hard work of Hertfordshire’s police officers, PCSOs and staff over the busy Christmas period. As Police and Crime Commissioner, I’m determined that Hertfordshire’s town centres remain safe and welcoming places for everyone."
Hertfordshire has 33 local Neighbourhood Policing Teams mostly based in town centre locations in every district.
You can report concerns about your area to the dedicated Hertfordshire police page. Reporting longer term issues and concerns helps local officers take action against them.
But if a crime is in progress, call 999 immediately. For non-emergencies, you can report online, use the live web chat or call 101.