I feel very humbled and privileged to be re-elected as Police and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia for a third term.
From the first day I was elected in 2016 to now, my drive to deliver for local communities is unchanged.
I have set out three clear commitments: cutting crime, supporting victims, and putting policing back into the heart of communities.
Those pledges build on the progress I have made, as well as laying solid foundations for the next chapter.
Looking back over the past eight years, I am proud of the achievements I have delivered which include overall crime falling and police officer numbers increasing by more than 500.
But now, as I develop my new police and crime plan, I am focused on the future and ensuring West Mercia Police meets your priorities over the next four years.
To be frank, I am impatient for change. With record amounts of resources going into West Mercia Police, it’s time that you feel and see the full benefits of significant investment.
I share your calls for policing to be evermore visible and accessible in your community. That’s why, alongside record numbers of police officers, dedicated town centre policing teams will be launching across West Mercia in the coming months.
I understand the damage all types of crime continue to cause, whether it be prolific shoplifters targeting local businesses or cross-border criminals devastating our rural communities.
Law and order are the bedrock of our society, so with that in mind, it’s vital West Mercia Police can quickly adapt to the ever-changing nature of crime and use all the investigative capabilities at its disposal to take offenders off our streets and bring them to justice.
I have no doubt this is possible. I regularly speak to the officers and staff who make-up West Mercia Police and I am always blown away by their devotion to keeping communities safe.
It’s therefore incumbent on myself, with my responsibility for the totality of policing and the Chief Constable, operationally, to ensure officers and staff are set-up to succeed.
Outside of policing, I will continue to invest in a range of services to support victims to cope and recover as well as diversionary services to give people better choices in life and ultimately, reduce crime.
You also have a big part to play. As your voice in policing, I have launched the Big Conversation and would encourage you to share any thoughts, feelings and priorities before I meet with the Chief Constable on Tuesday 25 June.
Get in touch on social media Facebook, X and Instagram (@WestMerciaPCC), or by emailing [email protected]
I will be out and about across West Mercia soon. Keep an eye on my website and social media to find out about other opportunities to have your say.
John Campion
West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner