New officers to combat Suffolk's £15.8m fraud problem

The big picture: Suffolk reported 3,370 fraud cases in 2022, resulting in £15.8m in losses. Suffolk Public Sector Leaders (SPSL) have approved funding for two new Fraud Prevent and Protect Officers to combat this growing threat.

Why it matters: Fraud affects individuals and businesses across Suffolk, harming the local economy. These new roles aim to:

• Respond to information about people vulnerable to fraud

• Deliver educational presentations to community groups

• Reduce the number of fraud victims in the county

Between the lines: The initiative brings together Suffolk Constabulary and Suffolk Trading Standards in a partnership approach. They'll share victim data to prevent further fraud, working as part of the Suffolk Anti-Fraud Partnership (SAFP).

• The National Trading Standards Scams Team supports this local partnership, aiding fraud victims through education, awareness, and collaboration.

What they're saying:

• Councillor Neil MacDonald, SPSL Chair: "The establishment of the Fraud Prevent and Protect Officer posts is a crucial step in our commitment to safeguarding our communities from fraud."

• Councillor Matthew Hicks, Suffolk County Council Leader: "This initiative demonstrates our proactive approach to tackling fraud in our county."

• Tim Passmore, Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner: "Fraud is an ever-evolving threat, and it requires a robust and dynamic response."

What's next: The new officers will focus on:

• Improving support for fraud victims through the National Economic Crime Victim Care Unit

• Enhancing cooperation between law enforcement and Trading Standards

• Strengthening fraud prevention strategies

By the numbers: Tim Passmore has committed £40,000 from the council tax policing precept to fund a fraud prevention officer. Additional funding from the Suffolk Public Sector Leaders Pooled Business Rates Fund will expand this prevention work.

The bottom line: This collaborative effort aims to create a safer environment for Suffolk residents and businesses by preventing fraud and supporting victims.