News Extra police patrols deployed in Exmouth town centre

Police are conducting additional foot patrols in Exmouth this summer. The patrols are part of a hotspot policing initiative across Devon and Cornwall to reduce antisocial behaviour and serious violence.

Street marshals are already active in Exmouth as part of this initiative. Feedback has been positive with members of the public reassured by their presence.

The funding will allow daily police patrols in areas identified as hotspots to deter crime and enable impactful community engagement. Exmouth sees an influx of visitors over the summer months so these additional patrols will help to meet the increased demand for police resources.

Grant Leitch, Exmouth Sector Inspector, said:

“The provision of funds for these patrols has been a game changer. It enables officers to do the very work they want to do; namely, to be out in the town. It reassures the public, as they see we are there for them. It compromises and suppresses criminality and antisocial behaviour. It is a tremendous example of meeting needs and demands by making basic police tactics feasible."

“What is more, there is a significant body of data which confirms where the public need us and when. With the additional patrols we can exercise pinpoint accuracy on the locations of highest demand. In short, it is effective and efficient. We are profoundly glad to be able to serve our communities in this way.”

The patrols represent a multi-agency approach to improving community safety. The street marshals will be working alongside the police to share insights and deliver a united front against crime. 

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez secured £1 million in Home Office funding for hotspot policing, which forms part of a wider Street Focus project. The funding is shared across multiple locations in 13 towns and cities, including Exmouth.