Honiton’s MP: ‘Only 5% of cases in this part of Devon see a suspect charged’

Honiton's MP Richard Foord has responded the news that Devon and Cornwall Police have been moved into special measures by the police inspectorate.

It means that Devon and Cornwall Police will be subject to an enhanced degree of monitoring by the police inspectorate after an inspection flagged up concerns.

The report identified problems with managing registered sexual and violent offenders and answering and responding to calls.

In a statement requested by Honiton Nub News, Richard Foord said: "Across our part of Devon, far too many crimes are going unsolved, with over 1,500 cases being closed by Devon & Cornwall Police last year without a suspect being identified and only 5% of cases seeing a suspect charged.

"With a growing level of anti-social behaviour and burglaries, it's clear that more needs to be done to keep people safe - as many don't even feel safe in their own towns and villages. The news that Devon & Cornwall Police are now in special measures is a sign of how bad political oversight has become.

"I support for re-opening the Honiton Police Desk, to mirror the re-opening of the desk in Tiverton, so we can give people a more visible and accessible police presence. I've been engaging constructively with senior police officers and the Police and Crime Commissioner to raise local concerns.

"However, what is clear is that more funding is needed for things to get better. Hardworking Police officers and staff are doing all they can, but they are simply overstretched. 

"We need the Conservatives at Westminster to step up to the plate and give Devon & Cornwall Police the resources they need to do their jobs properly - not to simply pile on more arbitrary targets and paperwork."

Read more:

Latest crime figures show 34 violent and sexual offences took place in Honiton in July