Dedicated neighbourhood police officers to ‘build on city’s strong track record on community safety’

Stoke-on-Trent has been assigned two additional dedicated neighbourhood police officers as part of ongoing work to support thriving town centres.

The move builds on wider partnership work already delivering results across the city.

 Focused activity in Fenton, Shelton and Tunstall has contributed to reductions in crime and ASB of around 20 percent, while the joint Weeding Them Out campaign has removed £246,000 worth of illegal goods and helped deliver a 50 per-cent year-on-year reduction in cannabis grows.

Now PC Warren Dooley and PC Matthew Whiston will provide a visible presence across the city’s town centres, working closely with the city council’s ASB team and other local partners. 

The new roles are designed to strengthen partnership working between Staffordshire Police and the city council as well as improve responses to issues affecting town centres.

Councillor Duncan Walker, cabinet member for safer and resilient communities at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “This partnership builds on the city’s strong track record on community safety, strengthening the work we’re already carrying out.

“We’re continuing to work hard to reduce crime and ASB and make sure our town centres are safe, welcoming places for people to visit, live and work.

“These dedicated officers will play an important role in building on the progress already being made across the city.”

Inspector Rebecca Price, of the Stoke-on-Trent south local policing team, said: "The two officers dedicated to town centres across Stoke-on-Trent will work to build relationships with local businesses and communities, whilst tackling issues that matter most to them.

 "PC Dooley and PC Whiston will be visible in areas with high footfall and I would encourage anyone with any issues to speak with them.

 "We remain committed to working alongside local partners to reduce crime across Stoke-on-Trent."

Residents and businesses are encouraged to speak to the officers while they are on patrol and raise any concerns affecting their area.