As the May election for the Police and Crime Commissioner of Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly approaches, candidates are presenting their visions aimed at enhancing safety and law enforcement responsiveness. Incumbent Alison Hernandez and Labour challenger Daniel Steel have outlined their comprehensive strategies, while attempts to reach Liberal Democrat candidate Steve Lodges for comment have remained unanswered despite multiple attempts.

Alison Hernandez’s Comprehensive Safety Strategy

Incumbent Alison Hernandez seeks to continue her work bolstering community safety through a multifaceted strategy, which has already seen significant increases in police personnel thanks to a mix of government support and local funding. "Together we have managed to recruit record numbers of police officers (3610) from both the Government uplift and the people of Cullompton paying more in their council tax. I do appreciate it," Hernandez stated, emphasizing community involvement in these improvements.

Her campaign focuses on several key areas:

• Combatting Rural Crime: Hernandez has been proactive in addressing rural crime, which includes thefts and vandalism in less populated areas. She explained, "I have recently worked with the four other Police and Crime Commissioners to improve intelligence sharing and capture criminals across the South West. We want to stop them getting here."
• Enhancing Police Accessibility: Reopening police station enquiry offices is a priority, with Hernandez highlighting Cullompton’s station as a prime candidate. "Let me know if you want to have it reopened," she invited, underscoring her approach to community-driven policing.
• Innovative Community Projects: Perhaps one of the most ground breaking initiatives is the construction of homes for the homeless by prisoners on day release. Hernandez led this project, which has already seen success in Cullompton, demonstrating a creative approach to solving the housing crisis while integrating rehabilitation.
• Drug Enforcement and Youth Protection: Under Hernandez’s leadership, Operation Scorpion was launched to combat drug dealing and protect the youth. "Nearly 4000 drug disruptions across the South West over two years and a reduction in County Lines, where our children are exploited," she reported, showing substantial progress in this critical area.
• Road Safety Initiatives: With a significant investment of over £5 million, Hernandez has supported projects like Vision Zero and Community Speedwatch to reduce road accidents and deter dangerous driving.
  

Daniel Steel’s Vision for Renewal and Community Engagement

Daniel Steel, the Labour and Co-operative Party candidate, brings a personal backstory to his campaign, driven by his own experience with crime. "A few years ago, I was the victim of knife crime. It is something that stays with you," Steel shared, underscoring the emotional impetus behind his candidacy. His plans include:

• Revitalizing Community Policing: Steel is adamant about increasing the number of police officers and PCSOs on the streets to rebuild community trust and ensure public safety. "With lots of new developments in Cullompton and people moving to the area, Labour will ensure the police have the resources to match the increased demand," he asserted.
• Special Focus on Violence Against Women and Girls: Addressing violence, particularly against women and girls, is a cornerstone of Steel’s platform. He plans to enhance police capabilities with specialized units and support for victims.
• Preventing Youth Crime: With an increase in serious youth-related violence, Steel is committed to rigorous enforcement and preventive measures to keep young people from entering criminal paths.
• Strengthening Crime Prevention and Victim Support: Steel aims to make crime prevention and victim support more locally responsive, focusing on the unique challenges of rural and night time environments.
• Environmental Commitment: Reflecting broader Labour policies, Steel is also focusing on environmental justice, particularly the issue of illegal sewage dumping, promising tough measures against repeat offenders in the water management sector.
  

Steve Lodges' Silence

Despite three attempts to contact him via email, Liberal Democrat candidate Steve Lodges has not provided any comment on his campaign plans or strategies. This absence leaves a gap in the public's understanding of the full range of options available in the upcoming election.

Looking Forward

The contrasting visions of Hernandez and Steel offer the voters of Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly a clear choice in how they wish to see community safety issues addressed. As the candidates continue to campaign, they are engaging with the public to refine their strategies and respond to local concerns.

Residents are encouraged to reach out with feedback or questions, participating actively in shaping the policy directions that will affect their lives and safety. The outcome of this election will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the region's approach to law enforcement and community relations.