The job of a local neighbourhood policing team is busy and varied. Whether we are walking the beat, attending meetings, or completing paperwork, we are always working to keep our community safe.
In the last 12 months we have carried out 10 warrants across Warminster, Westbury, Mere and Tisbury, where we have used intelligence provided by you, the public, colleagues and partner agencies. During those warrants we have arrested nine people and seized five thousand pounds in cash and a large quantity of both cannabis and cocaine.
To carry out a warrant, we must build a file containing evidence and rationale that we can take to the magistrates’ court to get approval for us to carry out that search. These may be drug warrants, linked to organised crime groups, using vulnerable people in our community to profit from illegal behaviour. My officers spend a lot of time putting those files together to make sure we have the best chance of helping those vulnerable people.
If those vulnerable people are in social housing, we also work with the housing authority. We may be able to apply for a closure order, which means we can stop and arrest anyone from entering the property who should not be there. Again, this needs to be authorised by magistrates.
Modern policing involves more than just being a visible presence. It is about forming relationships, earning trust, and proactively working with communities to prevent crime.
Another concern has been raves taking place in our area. My officers have worked hard with the local community to address concerns and work with residents and council members to prevent more taking place.
In a study by the College of Policing, 7 out of 10 people agreed that the most important police work happens behind the scenes. We know we need your help to carry out that work. If there is something happening in your area that concerns you, tell us. You can attend a community event, call 101 or let us know through our website.
