PCC welcomes crackdown on prison gangs

West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion has welcomed Justice Secretary David Gauke’s ‘practical’ approach to cracking down on criminal activity within prisons.

In Mr Gauke’s first major speech in his new job, he will announce an investment in a further £14 million for the fight against organised crime. This will include increasing the security within existing prisons and recategorising those who are at risk of continuing criminality in prison.

The Commissioner said: “I am pleased to see that the Justice Secretary is passionate about cracking down on these criminal networks, which have only got larger and more complex through the technology and bold methods these individuals are choosing to use. It is right that those going into prisons for criminal activity, and at risk of getting involved in further criminal activity, are cut off from the outside world and their networks.

“These organised gangs are not only causing harm in the prisons but in our communities too, and I will continue to work with the Government to ensure this harm is reduced.”

Issued on: Tuesday 6 March