Wiltshire Chief Constable: 'Couzens betrayed everything we stand for'

Wiltshire Police Chief Constable Kier Pritchard released a statement following Wayne Couzen's sentencing at the Old Bailey Court, in London.

Expressing his condolences on behalf of Wiltshire Police, the Chief Constable said: 'The thoughts of every single officer, member of staff and volunteer at Wiltshire Police are with Sarah Everard, her family and friends."

Ms Everard was kidnapped by 48-year-old serving police officer Wayne Couzens as she walked home from a friend's house in Clapham, on March 3rd. Couzens drove her to Kent and went on to rape and strangle the 33-year-old marketing executive. He's been given a whole-life sentence for his crimes.

From his Twitter page, Chief Constable Kier Pritchard expressed how the actions of Couzens have led to concerns among communities across the UK.

'This case has, understandably, led to an outpouring of concern about how our communities can verify an officer’s identity and know what they are doing is proportionate, legal and, most importantly, safe.

'It is now more important than ever that we continue to work as hard as we can with our partners and the communities we serve to rebuild trust, particularly with women and girls, which has clearly been significantly damaged by this case.'

Building back trust

Pritchard addressed trust concerns following the horrifying details of Ms Everard's case: 'Sarah’s horrific death was the result of one person but everyone within the police service now has a responsibility to help regain the public’s confidence and rebuild the trust which has been called into question.'

He says Wiltshire officers will take actions to ensure trust can be regained among the public, particularly among women and girls, when approached by a police officer.

'In light of this, it is only right that my operational colleagues expect and are tolerant of those who wish to be further reassured in our interactions with you.'

Pritchard has encouraged members of the public to ask more questions if approached by a police officer: 'Members of the public absolutely have the right to question my officers and ask for verification of them and their actions.'

'I have asked my officers to all take additional time to explain and reassure the public who they are, what they are doing and why.'

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• wiltshire police
• sarah everard
• wayne couzens