The West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner is reaffirming his commitment to build confidence in rural communities ensuring the public are safe and feel safe.
A third of West Mercia’s communities live in rural areas, rising to 50% in Herefordshire and Shropshire. Rural crime* in September 2022 accounted to 23% of all crime.
The commissioner has invested in 15 Rural and Business Officers, plus specialist wildlife officers, to work with rural communities reducing crime and offering practical preventative advice. He has invested in Smartwater, which can be used to mark property and is proven to be effective in preventing theft.
He has also held a number of face to face, and virtual events with the most remote and rural communities to listen to the public’s concerns and ensure issues are addressed.
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said “I fully understand the detriment that crime has on our rural communities and I am pleased to see this in the national spotlight. Crimes such as theft not only have a significant impact on businesses and farming, but make people feel more isolated. Since 2016 I have been championing this issue, and I have proved my commitment to addressing these issues, by listening to the public concerns, taking action and making investments which help to make our communities safer.”
For information and crime prevention advice visit: https://www.westmercia.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rc/rural-crime/
*Defined as any crime type in a rural area.