New unit at Wiltshire Police to tackle serious and organised crime
'Fortitude' will begin with an 'intensive week of activity'.
The team at Wiltshire Police will be focussed on taking action against prolific offenders, county lines activities and those offenders thought to pose a high risk to communities.
16 new frontline officers to allow for Fortitude to be set up.
They'll begin their work this week (from Monday 12th October) by carrying out a number of arrest warrants across the county.
Wiltshire Police Chief Constable Kier Pritchard said:
"Crimes carried out by even a few prolific offenders are felt throughout a community and can blight the lives of those living there.
"I'm confident that this renewed focus on actively targeting these serious criminals will have a dramatic impact and improve the lives of the people living in the areas we serve.
"Fortitude will hit the ground running with a week of planned activity. Operations will continue apace over the following weeks as our Fortitude teams keep up the momentum, working with colleagues to root out criminals and strengthen our communities over the long term. Expect to see plenty of activity carried out by the Fortitude teams over the coming weeks."
Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson said:
"Fortitude has been made possible thanks to public support for my increase in the police precept and given us extra capacity to launch this long term initiative.
"By specifically targeting repeat offenders and those who commit the most crimes in our communities, we hope to see a dramatic impact on criminality within our communities.
"Fortitude is not a short term solution. Teams will be working with colleagues to bring about a long term change in the communities where they are based - to meet the priorities set out in my Police and Crime Plan."