A much safer place (From Barry And District News)

A much safer place

The VALE of Glamorgan's new Divisional Commander has taken up post this week with a clear vision for policing in the Vale.

Josh Jones, whose full title is Superintendent and Divisional Commander for the police in the Vale, replaces recently-retired Colin Jones.

He has vast experience and worked in uniform and CID before progressing to the top.

He has been stationed in Swansea, Cardiff and Rhondda Cynon Taff and his most recent post was in Pontypridd as the Superintendent of Operations.

Supt Jones said: "I am delighted to arrive in a Division which is performing well and it is my job to ensure that we continue to perform to the highest standards.

I hope to make the Vale of Glamorgan a safer place to live, work and visit."

He is already accustomed to the Vale of Glamorgan as he previously worked here, four years ago, as a Chief Inspector.

He added: "I understand the different challenges that policing this area presents.

This division has a number of excellent active partnerships already in existence with the Local Authority, voluntary organisations and community groups.

These partnerships are working together to provide a quality service to the public and I recognise that they have certainly made a difference to many people's quality of life.

So, we shall be building upon these to make the Vale a safer environment for all."

"The Vale of Glamorgan is a diverse community and we must aim to police the people according to their needs.

This division will continue to build upon the existing lines of communication that we have with our communities, such as the Community and Race Relations Advisory Group."

Supt Josh Jones concluded: "I also understand the devastating effect that drugs can have on communities.

I have seen it first hand during my time working in the Rhondda Valleys.

The link between drugs and crime is well documented.

We will enforce the law in a robust but fair manner.

But as importantly we will work with our partners in terms of educating young people, and with regard to treatment and rehabilitation for those already ensnared in the drugs culture."