Dorset Police release statement following Wayne Couzens conviction

The statement reads: “Dorset Police are committed to building the trust and respect we already have with our communities to ensure that all – especially women, children and the most vulnerable – feel safe and are safe in our county. ”

Deputy Police Chief Sam de Reya said: “Following the events in London, the conviction of the murderer of Sarah Everard cannot take away the pain and suffering of her family or loved ones. Our thoughts are with them first.

“We know that confidence in the police service, especially on the part of women and girls, has been significantly affected by this tragedy and the thought that a serving officer has abused his post in this way is sickening.

“Couzens has betrayed everything we stand for.”

“We must and will continue to work harder with every part of the justice system, the partner agencies and the communities we serve to rebuild trust and make our streets as safe as possible for women and girls.

“Couzens’ actions were a terrible abuse of power and do not represent the maintenance of order.

“The police and staff who want to protect the public are as shocked and angered by this man’s crimes as all of our communities will be. ”

The statement goes on to say that communities should be reassured that police will always seek to verify their identity when engaging with a member of the public.

Reya’s deputy police chief said: “We understand how worrying Couzens’ actions were and the desire that now exists to know how to verify an officer’s identity.

“Police officers always carry identification and can always be contacted for verification. They are used to reassuring.

“Police officers will not always be in uniform, but it would be extremely unusual for an undercover police officer to work alone.

“If they are, they should call for help from other agents who will be arriving very soon to help them help you out if you need it.

“In view of Couzens’ actions, it is right that the police wait and be tolerant of those who wish to be more reassured.

“They will want to explain and reassure who they are, what they do and why – this should only be expected and respected by our communities.”

Dorset Police have also said that if you cannot verify the identity of an officer or feel in imminent danger you should seek help, even if it means yelling at another member of the public, to hail a car or dial 999, then the force would be asking for proportionate action to be taken.

Reya’s Deputy Police Chief said, “Our job is to compassionately monitor communities and keep the public safe and we do it because we care about people.

“Local and national policing will do everything in its power, including being part of the larger debate unfolding in society today, so that women and girls feel secure. safety in their own streets. ”