Donna Jones Backs PM’s Crime Crackdown Plan
Donna Jones, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, joined Boris Johnson, Home Secretary Priti Patel, and Policing Minister Kit Malthouse at Number 10 to launch the government’s bold new Beating Crime Plan. The aim? Slash crime, cut victim numbers, and make Britain safer.
Local Action Matches National Ambition
Jones is already ahead of the game, rolling out key parts of the national plan locally. She’s spearheading Violence Reduction Units in Hampshire, portsmouth/" title="Portsmouth" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Portsmouth, Southampton, and the Isle of Wight to tackle knife crime head-on. Plus, she’s pushing for faster 101 and 999 call responses and introducing an Anti-Social Behaviour Task Force to combat nuisance and disorder alongside police and community partners.
Knife Crime and Stop and Search: Jones Takes a Stand
“I’m concerned about the rise of knives on our streets and welcome the extra funding to boost our Violence Reduction Units,” Jones said. “The Plan also makes it easier for police to use stop and search powers, which I fully back. My Youth Commission members have asked for more stop and search because they don’t feel safe. Sadly, young people, especially boys, remain at risk from knife crime here.”
More Cops on the Beat and Community Contact
Jones has vowed to recruit 600 extra officers in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight by the end of 2023, part of the nationwide push to add 20,000 cops. The plan promises local residents a named officer for their community, making it easier to raise concerns. Jones said, “I’ll work closely with the Chief Constable to ensure everyone knows who their officers are and how to reach them.”
She added that her own Police and Crime Plan will soon reflect the new national strategy, with a consultation launching this month. “This gives local people a chance to shape policing priorities and help make our communities safer,” Jones confirmed.
