Read my latest news and views…

View all news stories here…
New plan to tackle tool theft and rural crime
Crimefighters, Westminster Matthew Barber Crimefighters, Westminster Matthew Barber

New plan to tackle tool theft and rural crime

Thames Valley has been leading the way in tackling rural crime and the Conservatives’ new plan to tackle tool theft and rural crime reflects the model developed locally…

  • New action to protect tradespeople, farmers and rural areas from theft and organised crime

  • Crackdown on traveller encampments and fly-tipping

  • Launch more Rural Crime Taskforces with dedicated rural police officers

Read More
Policing needs a funding formula review now say PCCs
Crimefighters, Westminster Matthew Barber Crimefighters, Westminster Matthew Barber

Policing needs a funding formula review now say PCCs

This [National Audit Office] report makes clear the urgent need for a review of the funding formula for policing. The model is outdated and does not take into account the needs of policing and our neighbourhoods, including rural areas. And the continued use of this formula is compounding the disparity between police forces making it harder for PCCs and Chief Constables. Forces can no longer wait for change - a review must happen now.

Read More
PCC launches vehicle crime and tool theft awareness campaign
Campaign, Crimefighters Matthew Barber Campaign, Crimefighters Matthew Barber

PCC launches vehicle crime and tool theft awareness campaign

Vehicle crime is currently down in the Thames Valley compared to last year, but I want this trend to continue which is why I have launched a campaign to focus on vehicle and tool theft. Having your vehicle stolen or something stolen from it isn’t just an inconvenience, it can also result in financial loss, emotional stress and, depending on where the theft took place, security and community safety concerns.

Read More
The loophole in the Government’s drink-spiking law
Crimefighters Matthew Barber Crimefighters Matthew Barber

The loophole in the Government’s drink-spiking law

Spiking - giving someone drink or drugs without their consent - is an awful crime. In the worst cases we know that it can kill, and sadly it is a tactic we know some criminals will use to rape or sexually assault their victims.

There is a BIG problem with the new law the Government is trying to pass to deal with this. A problem that could mean that some people could get away with it.

Read More