Why it matters: The claimed crime reductions demonstrate the impact of targeted policing operations, with Operation Spotlight's additional patrols in key areas said to be delivering measurable results in tackling anti-social behaviour and knife crime across the county.
The big picture: The summer months saw intensive police activity beyond routine patrols, including the conviction of six prolific shoplifters in Ipswich through the Safer Town initiative, the dismantling of multiple cannabis factories in Brandon and Haverhill, and multi-agency operations resulting in over 50 vehicle stops and six arrests. A separate fraud operation led to seven arrests.
By the numbers: According to the Chief Constable, the additional patrol hours contributed to substantial crime reductions during the summer months from June to September. In one example she cited, officers seized around £15,000 worth of drugs during a proactive patrol, with the suspect subsequently arrested.
The details: The force reports its Contact and Control Room handled unprecedented demand, receiving 34,355 emergency calls and 30,247 non-emergency calls from June to August – described as the highest levels this year and an increase from 2024. Despite this pressure, the Chief Constable says the force maintained good performance in answering calls, while the live chat facility averaged just eight seconds for initial responses.
What's next: Chief Constable Rachel Kearton and Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore will host public meetings across Suffolk through September and October, with an online session in November. The meetings will provide updates on county policing and opportunities for residents to ask questions about local issues.
What they're saying: "I want to thank the public for their continued support and encourage everyone to keep reporting concerns," said Chief Constable Kearton. She highlighted that the new operating model for local policing, in place for several months, has strengthened community engagement and ensured officers' work aligns with tackling crime and anti-social behaviour that most disrupts communities.
The bottom line: Suffolk Police's intensive summer operations have delivered tangible results in crime reduction whilst managing record call volumes, with the force now seeking public feedback on whether new community-focused policing models are meeting local needs.
