Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards has responded to His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) report on Hertfordshire Constabulary which was published today.

Hertfordshire Police was graded in nine areas and rated as good in one, adequate in three, requiring improvement in four and inadequate in one. The reports assessed the force from December 2023 until June 2024.

Mr Ash-Edwards is going to discuss the details of the report and what action is being taken with the Chief Constable at the Accountability and Performance Meeting being held on 14th November.   

“Having been newly elected in May, as the inspection process was concluding, this inspection report provides me with a useful external assessment of how the Constabulary is performing. It will assist my role in holding the Chief Constable to account on behalf of the public and considering the resources the Constabulary will need in next year’s budget.

“There are clearly sections of the report which are a concern and where I want to see improvements made at pace. I am pleased that the Constabulary has taken responsibility and is acting accordingly. This will include a return visit of the Inspectorate early next year to review progress on crime recording.

“The report also reflects areas of positive performance, particularly in preventing and deterring crime, diverting young people from crime and maintaining a strong neighbourhood policing model. I want to recognise the tireless work that police officers and staff are doing on the frontline each day to pursue criminals and protect the public.

“Since my election, I have worked to improve the public scrutiny of the Constabulary’s performance, through my webcast Accountability & Performance Meetings. The inspection report will be discussed at the APM on 14th November”.

A full copy of the report is available at the HMICFRS website.