Volunteers Launch Uniformed Patrols in Bournemouth Amid Safety Concerns

Strategic Insights -

Volunteers in Bournemouth have come together to form a uniformed patrol group, Safeguard Force, to help keep the community safe. The initiative, which will start on Monday, August 11, follows two high-profile murder cases in the town and concerns about public safety. The volunteers will wear branded bibs and aim to provide "visible, compassionate, and non-confrontational patrols" to deter harm and protect the vulnerable.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Safeguard Force is a volunteer-led initiative to provide safety patrols in Bournemouth, aiming to create "safer, more supportive communities".
  • The group was set up in response to two high-profile murder cases in the town, including the murder of Amie Gray and attempted murder of Leanne Miles on Bournemouth beach in May 2024.
  • Safeguard Force's volunteers will wear branded bibs and patrol areas including beaches, gardens, and surrounding neighborhoods.
  • The group's mission is to provide visible, compassionate, and non-confrontational patrols that deter harm and promote wellbeing.
  • Dorset Police is aware of the group and has engaged with them to ensure they operate within the law, but has not endorsed the initiative.
  • The police emphasize the availability of existing voluntary roles, including the Special Constabulary, street pastors, and watch schemes, which ensure volunteers are vetted, trained, and tasked in accordance with the law.

Statistics:

  • 2 high-profile murder cases in Bournemouth have led to concerns about public safety and prompted the formation of Safeguard Force.
  • In March 2024, Nasen Saadi was jailed for life (minimum 39 years) for the murder of Amie Gray and attempted murder of Leanne Miles.
  • In January 2023, Lawangeen Abdulrahimzai was jailed for life (minimum 29 years) for the murder of Thomas Roberts outside a Subway takeaway shop in Bournemouth in March 2022.
  • Safeguard Force's patrols will start on Monday, August 11.

Sources:

  • Ben Mitchell, "Volunteers Launch Uniformed Patrols in Bournemouth Amid Safety Concerns"
  • Superintendent Pete Browning, Dorset Police
  • "Dorset Police", official website (note: no date provided)
  • Winchester Crown Court, "Nasen Saadi jailed for life for Bournemouth beach murder"
  • Salisbury Crown Court, "Lawangeen Abdulrahimzai jailed for life for Bournemouth murder"