Town latest to join policing initiative to reduce antisocial behaviour and crime

ADDITIONAL foot patrols are being provided in Tiverton as part of a £1.3 million crime-prevention project.

- by GAZETTE REPORTER

The town is one of two new areas to be included in the hotspot policing scheme for Devon and Cornwall, which aims to prevent incidents of antisocial behaviour (ASB) and violent crime.

The project, which sees police officers, PCSOs and street marshals conduct visible patrols in problem areas, has received £1m funding from the Home Office for 2025/26.

In addition, a further £300,000 funding has been provided by police and crime commissioner Alison Hernandez.

Hotspot policing is a proven methodology for reducing crime by targeting resources and activities in hotspots, which are determined using crime data.

The scheme involves increasing visible patrols to deter offenders from taking advantage of opportunities to commit crime. A uniformed presence also helps reassure members of the public in areas where they may feel more vulnerable.

Chief Inspector Dominic Nicholls, who oversees the project at Devon and Cornwall Police, said he was delighted to see the project extended following its success last year.