THE FIGHT against rural crime in Warwickshire has been boosted by new additions to its team and its fleet of vehicles.
PC Matt Simms becomes the eighth constable in the expanded team, joining PC Kate Taylor with responsibility for South East Warwickshire.
And the whole team is benefiting from a brand new Toyota Hilux 4×4, to help officers navigate difficult rural terrain and normally inaccessible areas across the county.
The Hilux complements the existing fleet of two 4×4 vehicles, and has already been out in recent days in North Warwickshire assisting with a warrant for a stolen vehicle.
Launched in October 2019, Warwickshire’s Rural Crime Team has expanded this year due to increased investment by the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), funded through the police’s share of Council Tax.
Officers are based in Rugby, Stratford and Atherstone, complemented by eight Special Constables, including an Inspector and Sergeant.
The team specialises in key types of rural crime by responding to rural offences, working with rural communities to address local issues, providing crime prevention advice, running regular proactive operations and patrolling in their dedicated beat areas.
Work with partner agencies, colleagues in bordering forces and other departments within Warwickshire Police has led to the recovery of over 40 vehicles, agricultural equipment and tools, worth well over £300,000.
Warwickshire PCC Philip Seccombe said: “It’s great to see the Rural Crime Team continue to expand, helping to reinforce the message that we are determined to reduce crime in all corners of the county.
“The investments I’ve made over the past year have seen the team double in size, providing the greater police presence that rural communities have told me they want to see.
“It’s also important that the team has the right equipment to help them do their job, so this extra set of wheels to get out and about is also great news. It’s great to see the team making good use of the new vehicle already.”
Rural Crime Lead for Warwickshire Police, Insp Alison Wiggin, said: “I’m pleased to welcome PC Matt Simms to the team, who will help to expand our visibility and capability in the south east of the county, particularly in places like Shipston and surrounding rural villages.
“Likewise, the new Toyota Hilux will be a great addition to our fleet and will allow us to access even more heard-to-reach areas, helping us to continue tackling rural crime within our communities.”
Visit www.warwickshireruralwatch.co.uk or follow @WarwickshireRuralCrimeTeam on Facebook and @RuralCrimeCops on Twitter for more information about the Rural Crime Team.
