PCC Calls on Police to Do More for Victims of ASB

The Police and Crime Commissioner is calling for West Mercia Police to do more for victims of anti-social behaviour (ASB), building upon its existing good work.

As part of the Commissioner’s formal holding to account process, he is calling for the force to do more with the public’s investment, engage more with victims of crime, especially repeat and vulnerable victims, and to improve their organisational knowledge of this type of crime.

West Mercia is ahead of national curve in terms of ASB crime recording and has worked extensively to build a profile of ASB across Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire and Telford. The Commissioner is calling on the Chief Constable to build on this intelligence to tackle particular problem areas and ensuring the communities and victims voices are heard and action is taken. He is also keen to see more support for the frontline officers who are supporting our communities.

Commissioner John Campion said “I know from the people I hear from on a day to day basis, the devastating impact that ASB can have. Some positive steps have been taken already but it’s important the force continue to listen to those affected and take action to keep our communities safe.

As well as ensuring this remains a priority across policing, I am investing in specialist services such as Victim Advice Line to ensure a joined up approach, where victims are fully supported, plus preventative measures to tackle the perpetrators of ASB as at an early stage, before this type of criminality becomes more frequent and advanced.”

A recent audit showed 61% compliance, compared to an average of 27% in a recent HMICFRS inspection of five other forces.