Police and Crime Commissioner launches ambitious four-year plan for safer Devon and Cornwall

Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez has unveiled a bold new Police and Crime Plan for 2025-2029, setting the course for a relentless fight against crime while addressing community concerns across the region.

The plan, which reflects extensive consultation with residents and local partners, introduces four strategic priorities: theft, drugs and alcohol-related crime, serious violence, and antisocial behaviour. With targeted approaches for urban, rural, and coastal areas, it aims to build safer, stronger, and more connected communities.

The plan outlines specific priorities tailored to Devon and Cornwall's unique geography:

• Town and City Centres: Addressing theft, shoplifting, and alcohol-related disorder, with a special focus on reducing violence against women and girls.

• Rural and Coastal Areas: Tackling wildlife crime, livestock and equipment theft, and organised crime networks, while protecting rural businesses and farmers.

• Roads: Enforcing a zero-tolerance policy on drink and drug driving, reducing traffic fatalities, and targeting vehicle-related offences.

• Homes and Neighbourhoods: Supporting victims, improving responses to domestic abuse and burglaries, and disrupting illegal drug supplies.

Recognising Devon and Cornwall’s status as one of the UK’s largest rural policing areas, the plan prioritises protection for farmers and rural businesses. Wildlife crime and illegal activity in remote areas will see increased focus, with enhanced support for rural crime teams and community safety officers.

Efforts will also target organised crime networks exploiting rural and coastal routes, aiming to create a “ring of steel” to deter drug trafficking and other illegal activities.

Antisocial behaviour remains a key concern for residents, prompting measures such as visible patrols in hotspot areas, tougher enforcement powers, and expanded partnerships through the Community Safety Accreditation Scheme.

Young people are a priority, with investment in prevention programmes designed to reduce involvement in violence and disorder. Early intervention and targeted support for at-risk individuals will work alongside school-based initiatives to foster respect and responsibility.

An emphasis on protecting women and girls includes efforts to prevent violence, provide robust responses to incidents, and improve victim support. Strategies include visible policing, collaborative prevention programmes, and enhanced community spaces.

The Commissioner is also introducing a commitment for all residential burglaries to be attended by police, ensuring stronger trust and support for victims.

The plan sets ambitious goals for Devon and Cornwall Police, including:

• Reducing call waiting times

• Improving crime recording accuracy

• Increasing public confidence

• Exiting HM Inspectorate’s ‘engage’ status

Commissioner Hernandez stated: "I want a police force our communities can trust and be proud of; one that is fair, efficient, and relentless in its pursuit of justice. My new plan reflects the priorities of our residents, addressing the issues that matter most to them while ensuring safer and stronger communities for all."

She added: "While Devon and Cornwall remain among the safest places in the country, we cannot be complacent. From tackling theft to rural crime and reducing antisocial behaviour, this plan is about delivering real change and building a brighter future for all residents."

Residents are encouraged to engage with the plan and contribute to the vision of safer, more resilient communities.

For more details, visit the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner’s website at devonandcornwall-pcc.gov.uk.