Dorset’s re-elected Police and Crime Commissioner devoted to make Dorset the ‘safest county’
PCC David Sidwick to continue with his seven-year plan following his re-election
Dorset’s re-elected Police and Crime Commissioner vows to continue addressing illegal drug dealing in his second term.
David Sidwick was only the third Conservative PCC to stand again and be re-elected this Sunday.
The PCC finished on 57,994 votes, 25,000 more than his nearest competitor representing the Lib Dems.
He told us: “I’m humbled and blown away by the fact the people of Dorset want me to carry on. All I can say is, I’m committed and dedicated to this job and I will deliver for the people of Dorset.”
Over the last three years PCC Sidwick has been in charge, antisocial behaviour has been on the decline and remains a priority for Dorset Police.
There has also been a 67% drop in rural crime since the PCC made that a top priority and invested in a rural crime team.
For his next term he promises to continue clamping down on rural crime as well as tackle county lines drug dealing.
He said: “We’re beginning to have success around illegal drugs and we've been able to close 45% of county lines.”
Dorset Police remains the second worst funded police force in the country which “needs to change.”
“I will fight to get more money for Dorset Police,” he said. “I have a commitment from the home office that when it does change, they will put in place the one big thing we need, which is seasonality.
“At the moment, Dorset Police doesn't get an extra penny for tourists who turn up in the summer and I will continue to fight for that.
“That is a commitment I give to the people of Dorset and there is nobody better to do that than me.”
Dorset Police Chief Constable Amanda Pearson said: “I would like to offer my congratulations to David Sidwick in being re-elected as the Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset.
“We look forward to continuing the progressive and productive relationship we have developed in the last three years and will be ready to assist in the further delivery of the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan.”