Focus on crime reduction and community safety outcomes

Police will be focusing more strongly on the delivery of outcomes aligned with Government and justice sector priorities in future.

The first Statement of Intent for Police released today, in conjunction with those of other justice sector agencies, sets out the focus for Police in support of the justice sector’s priority outcomes, namely:

• Safer communities
• A fairer, more credible and more effective justice system.

Acting Commissioner Steve Long said the Statement of Intent defines a change in Police strategic focus to &#34outcomes&#34 rather than &#34outputs&#34, thereby more accurately reflecting the government and justice sector goals.

&#34Police primarily contribute to the justice sector’s &#34safer communities&#34 priority and have invested significantly in crime fighting technology, training and partnerships that contribute to crime reduction in the specific outcome areas.&#34

&#34Safer Communities&#34

In the 2003/2004 year Police will be further co-ordinating practical policing approaches with proven crime reduction capabilities to focus on violence, burglary, vehicle crime and organised crime.

Within these crime types Police will focus specifically on Mäori, Pacific peoples, youth crime, victims of crime, at risk families and offenders involved in alcohol and drug abuse.

The threat of regional security and terrorist actions require Police to provide responses that give confidence and assurance to the citizens and business community of New Zealand.

The vision for Police’s road safety programme is to secure an environment in which people can use the roads with confidence, free from injury or death.

&#34A fairer, more credible and more effective justice system&#34

Police integrity is vital for maintaining community confidence. Where possible Police seek partnerships to strengthen the effectiveness and efficiency of its services and to reinforce community confidence in the rule of law and government services.

Mr Long emphasised the importance of partnerships, not just with other government agencies but also with the community at large and a wide variety organisations, to reduce crime and bring about safer communities together.

The full text of the Police Statement of Intent can be viewed at htt;//www.police.govt.nz