St. Leonards, Sussex – Four candidates vying to become Sussex’s next police and crime commissioner (PCC) shared their perspectives following a mother’s criticism of Sussex Police’s handling of a violent assault on her teenage sons. The incident occurred when the boys were attacked by a gang in Hastings, prompting their mother, Jo Docherty, to contact emergency services.
Docherty’s distress stemmed from the fact that despite reporting the attack to the police, no immediate response was dispatched. This prompted concerns about the efficacy of police actions and their ability to apprehend the perpetrators promptly.
Labour’s PCC candidate, Paul Richards, advocated for increased foot patrols to facilitate quicker responses to such incidents. On the other hand, Liberal Democrat Jamie Bennett raised concerns about resource constraints impacting the police’s ability to promptly address emergent situations like the assault on Docherty’s sons.
Candidates from varying political backgrounds, including the Green Party’s Jonathan Kent, voiced their dismay at the police’s response, emphasizing the need for a values-driven approach to policing. Kent highlighted the importance of accountability and ethical considerations in law enforcement practices, urging for a transparent and value-centric approach.
Incumbent PCC Katy Bourne expressed sympathy for Docherty’s ordeal and pledged to address the matter swiftly. Bourne emphasized the significance of communication and accountability within the police force, reassuring Docherty that her concerns would be addressed and investigated thoroughly.
Sussex Police confirmed ongoing investigations into the assault, conducting inquiries and appealing for witnesses to come forward. As voters prepare to go to the polls on May 2nd to elect their PCC, the incident serves as a focal point in highlighting the importance of effective policing and community engagement in Sussex.