Council to Replace PCSOs with its own Enforcement Squad to Better Tackle Antisocial Behaviour

Hertsmere Borough Council is to stop funding police community support officers (PCSOs) next year, in favor of creating its own council-led enforcement squad.

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The council said the decision would allow it to better tackle issues such as antisocial behaviour and fly tipping. However, Hertfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd said the move could lead to a less visible presence of officers in Hertsmere.

PCSOs are unarmed officers who focus on preventing lower level crime, disorder, and antisocial behaviour. They are often seen as a valuable asset to local communities, and their withdrawal could have a significant impact on public safety.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Mr. Lloyd said the withdrawal of the funding was “unhelpful” and that the public had repeatedly told him they wanted to see more officers on the street.

“This funding paid for additional PCSOs in the area, above the number the constabulary would normally assign to Hertsmere,” Mr Loyd said.

“PCSOs are always out on patrol and they are appreciated by the public, and I remain firmly committed to their role.”

Christian Gray, portfolio holder for communities and enforcement, said it was not in the council’s “gift” to employ PCSOs, a responsibility which lies with Hertfordshire Constabulary.

The council who have provided a PCSO Incentive Scheme since Since 2007, said the decision was made after it found that seven out of 22 PCSO posts in Hertsmere were vacant. The council said it would use the £130,700 saved from the PCSO funding which Hertfordshire constabulary matches, to create a new squad of enforcement officers.

The new squad will be tasked with tackling antisocial behaviour, fly tipping, and other issues outside of the police’s remit. The council said the squad would be made up of both police officers and council employees.

The decision to withdraw funding for PCSOs has been met with mixed reactions. Some people have welcomed the move, saying that it will allow the council to better focus on tackling the issues that matter most to local communities. Others have expressed concern that the withdrawal of PCSOs will lead to a less visible police presence and a decline in public safety.

The council said it will be consulting with the public on the proposed changes before making a final decision.