The background to policing in Suffolk is generally pretty favourable - trust and confidence in our Constabulary is on a rising trend as highlighted at our latest accountability meeting. Whilst there is much more to do to boost the image of policing nationally, we are fortunate to live and work in a county with the third lowest recorded crime rate nationally which is a very creditable performance indeed.
Demand however continues to increase, so how can we tackle this additional demand? The answer is with a variety of solutions. Extra police capacity is an obvious answer but that requires more investment and expenditure but improving productivity and utilising more efficient working practices is also needed. As Police and Crime Commissioner I do (in general) support capital expenditure in technology – the body worn video camera, ANPR, data robotics and forensic DNA evidence have radically transformed policing in recent years. All of this is very welcome but, in my opinion, society must be careful with new technology and ensure it is thoroughly tested for accuracy and reliability before becoming mainstream, especially in such an important public service as policing.
On the other hand, there are several ways of reducing demand on our police. One of the most significant contributions comes down to the army of volunteers who work not only with our commissioned charities and grant recipients, but for those of you who support the Constabulary.
Suffolk is fortunate to have a vast army of volunteers who make such a difference to policing right across the county. Each year I attend their annual celebration, and I am privileged to address and thank them for all they do. Volunteers carry out a whole host of roles, from chaplains to Special Constables, cadet leaders, museum keepers, translators and many more. Their time given is worth its weight in gold and I cannot conceive what Suffolk would be like without their enduring generosity. Accordingly, we are all so grateful.
As often as possible I do try and visit volunteers in their roles. I recently visited the Police Investigation Centre, the police custody suite, in Bury St Edmunds, accompanying two of our independent custody visitors on one of their regular visits. There are two custody suites in Suffolk, where individuals who have been arrested are processed. Generally, detainees are only kept for no more than a day and during that time their needs must be satisfied - something to eat and drink, be in a safe place and are kept in clean and comfortable conditions.
The work of our independent custody visitors enables checks on all such matters during the visits and records made accordingly. I must say what a fantastic job they do and there is no doubt that their commitment helps deliver excellent reports when the custody suites are inspected each year.
Volunteers are always welcome in our organisation so if you can spare some time to support policing in our county you will be very welcome. There are details on the website so please have a look.
Lastly, the Chief Constable and I are holding an on-line public meeting early next month so if you have a burning question about policing, please take this opportunity to ask it. The online meeting will take place on Tuesday 3 March at 6pm via Microsoft Teams. You will be able to speak to the Chief Constable, Rachel Kearton and myself about policing and crime in the county, or type your questions in if you prefer.
Having direct contact with the public is vital and helps me to represent the views of all the communities in Suffolk. I invite everyone to join us so we can answer your questions and gauge public opinions on a range of issues.
Published in East Anglian Daily Times in February 2026