The Police Authority asked the Chief Constable to present a report which covered the command strategy, policing style, the tactical plan and resourcing implications. It was noted that the additional cost of policing Hertfordshire during the disturbances was £200,000, arising largely from overtime and payment for cancelled leave and rest days.
During the week Hertfordshire utilised an additional 432 duty days for additional public order support and provided a further 336 duty days in support of the Metropolitan Police. All support provided to London will be reimbursed through mutual aid mechanisms.
62 people have been arrested to date of which 26 persons have been charged and remanded to court. The Chief Constable reported that effective use of CCTV in identifying offenders and the response from the public in indentifying people from images published by the local media had been vital in ensuing that offenders were brought to justice.
The Police Authority heard that on 9th August the county control room had taken 3,112 calls in a single day over 1,000 more than the usual number. Hertfordshire also assisted the metropolitan Police by dealing with calls from London residents at peak periods.
The Police Authority was also assured that Hertfordshire Constabulary is now working with Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire forces to ensure that lessons can be learnt to inform future strategy and resourcing decisions in relation to public safety.
The Police Authority noted that the way in which the Constabulary responded to the disturbances was superb, and in particular commended the officers, staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to help keep Hertfordshire safe during this difficult and testing period.
Police Authority Chairman, David Lloyd said “The level of commitment and teamwork demonstrated by our officers, staff and volunteers during the disturbances was exceptional. I would like to express my sincere thanks to all of those involved in keeping Hertfordshire safe, including local partners and community leaders who came together to support the work of the police. However, we now have an opportunity for reflection, and it is important we build on lessons learnt, both locally and nationally, so we can continue to do the best possible job on behalf of local communities.”
Watford Business Against Crime Manager said:
“Businesses in the town breathed a sigh of relief that Watford did not suffer the disorder that destroyed parts of town centres in other parts of the country.
“We have a great relationship with the police in Watford who support us in our efforts to keep the town centre attractive and crime free for shoppers, workers and residents. We’d like to thank them for their efforts which means we can now concentrate on preparing for the run up to Christmas, our busiest time of the year.”