Making communities safer, stronger, and more resilient against crime, drugs, and anti-social behavior is a top priority for the residents of County Durham and Darlington. Their voice is being heard and championed by Police and Crime Commissioner, Joy Allen.
Reelected in May 2024, Commissioner Allen is on a mission to transform Durham Constabulary into the best force in the country for crime prevention. Her latest Crime and Justice Plan is a testament to her dedication to the community. This plan is the result of an extensive public consultation, during which residents and businesses throughout the region shared their concerns and priorities.
Anti-social behavior remains a significant concern, closely followed by serious and organized crime. The community’s calls for visible policing, control of off-road bikes, and addressing issues related to drugs and alcohol are at the forefront of the agenda. Additionally, the plan highlights the extensive work being carried out to tackle knife crime, violence against women and girls, and child sex exploitation.
Commissioner Allen emphasized, “Victims, residents, and businesses have been consulted at every stage of the plan’s development. The resulting draft focuses on the issues that local people frequently identify as increasing their fear of crime and negatively impacting their quality of life. I am determined to make a difference and invest in solutions that will have a meaningful impact on their lives.”
She continued, “This involves holding more offenders accountable but also recognizing that enforcement alone is not enough. Prioritizing early intervention to address the root causes of crime and prevent unnecessary suffering is crucial. While this plan already aligns with public expectations and needs, I welcome further comments before its publication. As Commissioner, I represent the public’s voice, and listening to and acting on their concerns will remain my top priority.”
The recent announcement of multi-million-pound funding for neighborhood policing in County Durham and Darlington has been hailed as a “huge boost” for ensuring that police officers remain visible and active in the streets. Up to £178 million has been allocated to Durham Constabulary, marking a 6.5% cash increase.
Chief Constable Rachel Bacon, who joined the force with a commitment to community policing, stated, “People need to feel safer in their own neighborhoods, and we will work tirelessly to achieve that.” The effectiveness of CCTV systems in preventing crime and identifying perpetrators in Darlington has been praised, with hopes that similar systems can be implemented in other County Durham communities affected by disorder.
Councillor Lucy Hovvels of Trimdon and Thornley ward remarked, “Due to our geographical spread, many of our villages feel forgotten. CCTV helps the force by providing vital intelligence they sometimes can’t gather. The success of the CCTV system in Darlington is something we should advocate for in County Durham.”
The collective effort of the community, police, and local authorities is creating a safer, stronger, and more resilient environment for everyone. The commitment to addressing the concerns of residents and improving the quality of life in County Durham and Darlington is a shared responsibility that is being embraced wholeheartedly.