Tackling online fraud and more neighbourhood policing discussed at Chelmsford public meeting
How police can effectively tackle the increase in types of online fraud, shoplifting and bad driving were some of the questions put to Roger Hirst and panel members at public meeting held at Chelmsford City Council offices on Monday 3rd March 2025.
Roger was joined on the panel by Ch/Insp Paul Ballard, Essex Police; Area Manager Kerry Taylor, Essex Fire and Rescue Service and Spencer Clarke, Chelmsford Public Protection Manager, Chelmsford City Council.
Attendees at the meeting heard how anti-social behaviour in the district was down by 10.4% in the 12 months to January 2025, while burglary was down 28.8% and all crime was down by 10.3%. However, theft of a motor vehicle was up by 2.3% as were drug offences by 5.7%.
House fires and deaths from house fires had also reduced in the past few years, following increased investment in protection work carried out by the Fire and Rescue Service.
Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Roger Hirst said, “Being able to hear directly from local communities is invaluable in better understanding concerns and ensure we are working together to make Chelmsford a safer place.”
You can access the meeting notes and video here PFCC Chelmsford public meeting - Events - Essex PFCC
Deputy Police Fire and Crime Commissioner Jane Gardner was also out and about in the County when she attended the Thurrock Neighbourhood Watch annual general meeting on Thursday 26th February 2025.
At the meeting Jane was spoke about the work of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and the importance of partnership working with organisations like Neighbourhood Watch. Jane said: “Just knowing that Neighbourhood Watch are active in an area can play a large part in preventing crime for happening in the first place. The volunteers make a significant contribution towards creating safe and secure communities. “
The next round of PFCC public meeting dates are currently being confirmed and will be announced shortly.