Hertfordshire’s police chief has responded to a petition calling for more officers in Watford town centre.
Earlier this month Watford's mayor Peter Taylor called on Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd to boost High Street officer numbers.
Mr Lloyd has responded by saying he is "glad that the mayor agrees with my policy of increasing the number of police officers in Watford and across the county".
Read more:
- Mayor Peter Taylor starts Watford High Street police petition
- Tim Hortons Watford location building work begun
- Man died on track in incident that caused Bank Holiday delays in Watford
He continued: “There are now more officers in Hertfordshire than at any time in the history of the force, and it is continuing to grow.
“Legislation prevents police and crime commissioners from directing individual policing operations, this rightly remains a decision of the Chief Constable.”
However, the Mr Taylor said he still felt Mr Lloyd could do more to prioritise the high street and push recruitment.
The mayor said: “The commissioner’s role is to make strategic decisions.
“While it would be inappropriate for him to direct individual operational decisions, prioritising police resources to areas of high need, including Watford town centre, fits with this role.
“The latest figures, which come from the police themselves, show a shortfall of officers compared to their recruitment target.”
Have you got a story for us? You can contact us here.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.
To receive breaking news alerts or newsletters sign up here.
Check out our Watford crime and court Facebook page here.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here