Devon and Cornwall Police chiefs unveil new plan for tackling violent crime

Police bosses in Devon and Cornwall have revealed plans for a 'fundamental re-think' of how they deal with violent crime.

They want to commit £1million a year to intervening earlier to stop serious offences like murder, domestic abuse, sexual assault and drug trafficking.

Officers could work alongside experts from health, education and local authorities to identify the early signs of violent offenders.

Read more: Police call for extra Government funding to help with summer policing

Just this week the members of an organised crime gang were jailed for bringing misery and fear to the streets of South Devon.

‘The Geordies’ used violence and coercive tactics to maintain a criminal empire valued at £1million within Dawlish and Teignmouth.

A judge at Bristol Crown Court sentenced the group for a number of Class A and B drugs offences.

In order to fund this initiative, the public are being asked to pay more than four per cent extra on their council tax bills.

This amounts to an extra £9 next year for an average Band D property.