High visibility firearms patrols
British policing has a long and proud tradition of officers patrolling without firearms.
With intelligence determining that we continue to face a severe but non-specific terrorist threat, our Chief Constable has made the professional decision to deploy specialist firearms officers in certain key locations across the county. This will help ensure that we can all go about our daily lives safely and securely.
I welcome any increase in visible policing.
It is essential that Essex Police has an effective strategy to deter potential terrorism. It is also important that our police remain connected with the communities we serve, and that the decision to deploy armed officers is kept under regular review. As Police and Crime Commissioner, I will ensure this is the case.
Roger Hirst, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex
