Festus Akinbusoye has continued to deliver on his Police and Crime Plan and has launched his second annual report
Published today (Friday), the 2022-23 report follows the force exceeding its three-year officer recruitment target and receiving an ‘outstanding’ rating for its offender management programme in a recent report published by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) – the first in the country to receive this rating.
Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Festus Akinbusoye said: “I am extremely pleased to be publishing our latest report and even more pleased with the outcome of our progress review.
“Since my tenure commenced, I have been very clear in my goals for policing in Bedfordshire, and with the dedication and unreserved efforts of the office and our fantastic partners, not only are we delivering on my Police and Crime Plan, but we’re also surpassing it. I would like to share my appreciation for the office and their support over the last 12 months.”
The report highlights the Commissioners work to date under each of the seven priorities in the Police and Crime Plan.
Bedfordshire Police’s Chief Constable Trevor Rodenhurst said: “Having been made Chief Constable of this fantastic county late last year, it has been great to continue working with the PCC who I know supports my vision for the future of the force.
“One of our biggest successes over the past 12 months has been to grow the force and we now have more officers than at any point in our history. The PCC has been incredibly supportive of our efforts to achieve this and to put in place the Student Hub to ensure we have the right training and support in place to develop our future workforce and ensure we the very highest standards of integrity.”
The commissioner continued: “As PCC, I remain committed to community policing to cut crime and provide reassurance, early intervention to prevent crime, and a transparent policing area to drive public confidence. Much of my work have been focused on these key areas and I want to thank the Chief Constable, his leadership team, and my entire office for their continued support in delivering these.
Lastly, I want to thank the truly remarkable police officers and staff of Bedfordshire Police. I have had the privilege to work with and alongside them on occasions. They are dedicated to keeping our communities safer. I am committed to continue doing everything I can to support them in their work to help cut crime, prevent harm, and support victims of crime in our county.”