DEVON and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez met with Okehampton’s MP Mel Stride on Friday, March 24 at Okehampton Police Station. 

The Member of Parliament for Central Devon thanked Ms Hernandez for committing to re-open a Public Enquiry Office at the station within the next financial year – something he had pressed for along with local councillors. 

The pair discussed the importance of visibility and accessibility when it comes to policing and how a front desk will make it easier for people in and around Okehampton to speak to the police, in person, when needed. Ms Hernandez confirmed that it will be open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm, the period of the day where the police receive the most enquiries from members of the public.

County Lines drug trafficking into Devon and Cornwall, road safety and anti-social behaviour in Okehampton were also discussed.

Ms Hernandez said: “It was great to catch up with Mel and talk through different aspects of police strategy, including how we are working with our counterparts in Merseyside and other parts of the country to stop drugs being trafficked into Devon and Cornwall.”

Mr Stride added: “I am delighted that the front desk will be re-opening at Okehampton Police Station and it was very useful to be briefed on the excellent work Alison is doing to tackle County Lines. I was also very pleased to hear how the local Inspector has been working alongside local councillors to tackle anti-social behaviour.”