ASB, vehicle crime and drug dealing reviewed during Welwyn Hatfield district day

Tackling anti-social behaviour, vehicle crime and drug dealing were all raised when the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire visited Welwyn Hatfield.

David Lloyd and Deputy PCC Lewis Cocking started the day last week at the police station with Chief Inspector Kash Hussain where they reviewed and discussed crime issues in the borough.

County line drug dealing, anti-social behaviour and theft from cars were highlighted as particular activities which are being addressed. Also discussed was how the hotspot policing initiative of regularly concentrating more officers in high crime and nuisance areas, is being implemented from the Commissioner’s new Police and Crime Plan.

Mr Lloyd also heard how a targeted operation is currently underway following a spate of vehicles being broken into. Proactive raids were also planned on addresses as part of Operation Mantis which is a major ongoing operation against criminal groups running drug rings out of London into Hertfordshire.

They also joined Ch Insp Hussain in a weekly meeting with representatives from the community protection team from Welwyn Hatfield Council and Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. They discussed various issues around the area including anti-social behaviour and vehicles causing annoyances, and how a multi-agency approach can be used to address them.

The Commissioner then had the honour of presenting a long service medal to local neighbourhood officer PC Andrew Dockerill who has been with the constabulary for 20 years.

Mr Lloyd and Mr Cocking then went out on patrol with officers to see first-hand areas of concern around Welwyn Hatfield.

On a foot patrol of Hatfield town centre with PC Mitchell Cartwright the issues of problem drinkers congregating, and noisy car meets in The Common car park were discussed. A vehicle patrol of Welwyn and Welwyn Garden City looked at roads where speeding and drug dealing are an issue.

Mr Lloyd said: “These district days are a vital part of my work. They enable me to get out from my office to see what is working, and what is failing, from the point of view of the public and the police.

“One of the most useful parts of my role is the ability to work and speak to people across the public and private sector to enable a multi-agency approach to individual and community issues.

“Today has also highlighted areas where the system can be improved to ensure people are safer and victims get a better service. I have taken this information on-board so changes can be put in place.”

Chief Inspector Kash Hussain said: “We were pleased to have the opportunity to discuss with the Commissioner the issues we are tackling and how we can make Welwyn Hatfield even safer. My team works incredibly hard and we are determined to ensure that the borough is a safe place to live and work in.”