Enough is enough.

Full statement

We need action to cut crime and anti-social behaviour in our region. I’m an ex-copper and I have a plan to do it.

I’ve walked the beat, attended serious incidents, and commanded the response to firearms incidents. I’ve seen how crime affects our communities. I know how important strong leadership is to delivering effective policing.

Having experienced frontline policing first-hand, I know our police officers do a difficult and dangerous job with courage and commitment. They have my unconditional backing as they tackle crime.

But the West Midlands has been let down;

Police-recorded crime has doubled in the past eight years We have the country’s highest rate of knife crime Our police force is in special measures Police stations across the West Midlands are threatened with closure

It doesn’t have to be like this. I have a plan for change:

Immediately halt the proposed police station closures – and conduct a full review of the police estate and the size of the PCC’s office. Stop wasteful spending and return to proper local policing – deploying more officers to the frontline and ensuring their time is spent fighting crime. Crack down on violent and gang crime – especially involving knives and weapons. Seize criminals’ ill-gotten gains and use the Proceeds of Crime Act to bolster the frontline and support victims. Get our police force out of special measures, drive up performance, and restore public confidence.

I will get a grip on crime in our region, support victims, and safeguard the vulnerable.

Your vote will decide what happens to policing in the West Midlands.

I’m asking for your support on 2nd May to back my plan and make our region safer.

Prepared by Jemma Bennett of 120 Vyse Street, Hockley, Birmingham, B18 6NF