Book it to the police: Crime prevention events at your library

Book lovers in West Devon have a unique opportunity to combine their passion for reading with an engagement with local law enforcement at upcoming community events. 

Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Sean Jones will be hosting two special drop-in sessions at local libraries, offering residents a chance to connect with their local police and receive valuable crime prevention advice.

On Monday, September 9, PCSO Jones will be at Okehampton Library on North Street from 1pm to 3pm. 

The following day, Tuesday, September 10, he will be at Chagford Library in Jubilee Hall from 3pm to 5pm.

These events are open to all community members, whether they are picking up their latest book or simply seeking to engage with local police.

PCSO Jones said: “It will be a good chance for us to engage with the community and answer any questions or concerns they have, as well as passing on advice if they want it. I will also bring along some finger printing kits for any children to take part in.” 

In addition to these library engagements, PCSO Jones will also be visiting Made-Well near Hatherleigh on Friday, September 6.

Made-Well is a community support group dedicated to helping individuals with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, mental illness, and loneliness through activities such as gardening and animal care. 

During his visit, Jones will bring the police Land Rover for the group’s members to explore and photograph.

PCSO Jones and his colleague, PCSO Dave Condron, have been actively patrolling the Okehampton area and surrounding towns, including Hatherleigh and North Tawton, as well as smaller villages. 

Both officers joined the neighborhood police team a few months ago and are making strides in familiarising themselves with the local communities.

Sean, with a background in customer service management, and Dave, a former member of the Armed Forces, have been engaging with local events and building relationships across West Devon. 

Their work includes supporting police operations by gathering CCTV evidence and conducting house-to-house inquiries.

West Devon Sector Inspector Nathan Walker praised the new PCSOs, stating: “I am very happy to welcome, our new PCSOs, Dave and Sean, to the Okehampton policing team. They are a great addition to the community and will be working hard to help people connect with local services in Okehampton and the surrounding towns and villages.

“Dave and Sean are friendly and approachable and have been working over the summer to be present at events and build relationships with communities across West Devon.”

Residents are reminded that the Okehampton police station, located on Barton Road, has a public enquiry office open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm. 

For non-emergency matters, residents can call 101 or report online via the Devon & Cornwall Police website. To remain anonymous, individuals can contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

Please note, all officer attendance at the mentioned events is subject to operational demands.