Ambitious plans to increase the number of Special Constables is at the heart of John Dwyer’s programme for Cheshire.
The Former Assistant Chief Constable and Conservative Candidate for the new role of Police and Crime Commissioner says a dramatic increase in Special Constables and how they work will be central to his plans.
Specials are police officers who work - unpaid - for a minimum of 4 hours a week. At the moment there are 450 in Cheshire with plans to raise it to 500. John welcomes this increase but says it isn’t ‘bold enough’.
He intends to raise this figure to a thousand within four years.
John said, "This expansion in the number of Special Constables will deliver the most dramatic change to the police service in decades. They have extensive training and the power of arrest. They wear a uniform and carry the same equipment as regular officers."
"PCSOs have done a wonderful job in Cheshire in providing a reassuring presence but they have limited powers and can’t make arrests. "
“We must aspire to have a Special Constable or Constables linked to every town and village in Cheshire. Someone to whom the community can relate. These are volunteers who are part of the community and will have a unique insight into what is going on. They will be the frontline against anti-social behaviour and send the message that mindless actions of a few will not be tolerated.”
"We will work with councils and other partners to increase the status of Specials and encourage recruitment and we will make it easier and certainly welcome retiring officers, who want to keep a hand in, the chance to join."