Newly released figures show that 281 police officers have been recruited in Devon and Cornwall as part of the Conservative Government’s pledge to put 20,000 more officers on the streets by March 2023.

The latest figures are part of the Conservative Government’s drive to get 20,000 more police officers on the street by March 2023 and puts the Government on track to fulfil its manifesto commitment with 68 per cent of the target now met.

Across the 43 police forces, an additional 13,576 officers have been recruited, bringing the total number of police officers in England and Wales to 142,526 – where they are already having an impact in tackling crime and keeping communities safe.

Cherilyn said:

“From working with our local police force, I know just how valuable more police officers will be in helping crack down on crime in our local community, for example, with crime and anti-social behaviour in Truro city centre.

“The 281 additional recruits mean there are now 3,483 police officers in Devon and Cornwall, helping to pursue criminals, keep neighbourhoods safe, and reassure the law-abiding majority.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said:

“When this Government took office in 2019, we made a promise to the British people to recruit 20,000 extra police officers to cut crime and keep communities safe - and we are delivering on that pledge.

“These extra officers are getting out on the streets helping to cut crime and protect communities up and down the country – and they are reflecting the communities they serve better than ever before, with the highest ever proportion of female officers and officers from diverse backgrounds out there making a difference.

Our Beating Crime Plan will give these officers the powers they need to stop crimes happening, support victims and keep serious offenders in prison for longer – keeping the streets safer for all.”