New crime task force launches in East London. It focuses on theft and antisocial behavior with council funded police.
The council put £8 million into this project. THEOs will work with police officers, with the council funding these 26 officers. The team will increase safety across the area, and the launch took place in Altab Ali Park.
A council member spoke about the task force, saying it shows great partnership. He also noted the council’s investment in safety, mentioning other areas lack this support. The council invests millions to fight crime and addresses the causes of crime.
The council claims its investment is the highest in London.
For 15 years, THEOs have patrolled and have certain powers under the law. They can ask for your details and sometimes issue fines. THEOs also help vulnerable people, including the homeless or those with addiction.
In 2024, THEOs patrolled for 29,500 hours. The council’s police made 415 arrests since April 2022. There are 54 THEOs currently, with 10 more planned.
An officer stated they engage with people, educate and support the community, and occasionally must issue fines.
He stated that Homelessness is a major issue. They want to help these people by offering support and hostel placement.
A police superintendent thinks it’s a great idea and suggests other areas should copy it, if possible. The council’s investment makes a big difference, and she likes the mix of THEOs and officers. They are proactive and focused on crime.
THEOs can flag problems beyond their power. Then, police teams can step in, and together they make a difference. They use joint power for safety.
The council’s investment includes other things, such as a new dog patrol service. They are also upgrading the CCTV room, which includes a new video wall showing 42 cameras at once. They upgraded 350 street cameras too.