Extra officer to fight rural crime
PCSO Miranda Whateley, joins PC Charlie Jones and PCSO Gary Gwilt on the Powys team, which was launched in September 2018 as a result of the force’s rural crime strategy.
She has 12 years of experience with Dyfed-Powys Police and said: “I’m really pleased to join the rural crime team in Powys and to build on the good work they have carried out.
“I enjoy being out and about in the community, and I think it is really important that people living in rural areas have a familiar face to deal with their unique issues and challenges”.
“The team has built a fantastic level of trust with farmers, which is so important as farming can be a very lonely occupation, with many people feeling isolated and not knowing where to turn for help.
“Once the current restrictions ease, I’m looking forward to meeting local farmers at our many Powys livestock markets to introduce myself.
“I also hope to help communicate the importance of looking after our beautiful countryside in Powys to people visiting the area.”
Since commencement, the team has covered the whole of Powys, from Llanymynech to Ystradgynlais, dealing with issues ranging from sheep worrying and livestock thefts, to offering crime prevention advice and support.
To assist the team in getting around rural Powys, they have been provided with two 4x4 Ford Ranger trucks, which will allow them to get off the beaten track.
The rural crime team also works closely with partner agencies including the National Farmers’ Union, the Farmer’s Union of Wales, Natural Resources Wales and the Welsh Government.
Newly appointed Chief Inspector for North Powys, Jacqui Lovatt, said: “The expansion of our Rural Crime Team here in Powys shows our commitment to supporting rural communities and tackling crime in isolated areas.
“Miranda is well known across the area, and brings skills as a cyber-crime champion and hate crime officer, and will be a welcome addition to the team.
“There has also been a reluctance to report rural crimes in the past, due to a feeling that police wouldn’t put the time into investigating them fully.
“We are committed to proving that rural crime is a priority for the force, and have seen some fantastic work carried out since the team was put in place.”
ABOUT THE TEAM:
The Powys RCT is made up of PC Charlie Jones, PCSO Gary Gwilt and PCSO Miranda Whateley.
· PC Jones has 23+ years of police service and has spent all her career in Powys, working in uniform on the Response and Neighbourhood Policing Teams. Starting her career in Welshpool, before moving down to Radnorshire areas of Builth Wells, Rhayader and now Llandrindod Wells. However, PC Jones now oversees all the three counties of Powys.
· PCSO Gwilt has been made a permanent member of the team following a recent 12-month attachment. He is based in Newtown, and predominantly covers the Montgomeryshire area. He started his policing career as a Special Constable 20 years ago, before becoming a PCSO 13 years ago.
· PCSO Whateley has recently joined the team, and will primarily cover Brecon and Radnor areas. She has been employed by Dyfed-Powys Police for 12 years and has been a PCSO for 6 years.
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