A major shake-up to policing in Camden is already bringing results after just one month, the new inspector in charge of the north of the borough has claimed.
Inspector Nikki Babb said the new model – which kicked in on June 24 – has already helped to bring down burglary levels in Swiss Cottage, which saw a spike in recent weeks.
Camden is now split into three sectors – north, central and south – and many police officers who were previously dedicated to single wards now cover the larger areas.
It means more officers can be targeted on problems across the north sector, which includes wards such as Hampstead Town, Highgate, Belsize and Swiss Cottage.
Insp Babb, who has been placed in charge of the entire north sector, said: “It gives us greater flexibility of resources really.
“For example, burglary in the Swiss Cottage area had been at a peak recently.
“With the new model, we have been able to use extra officers to patrol the area.
“Before, we were very restricted about what we could do with people, but this new model allows that movement.
“There has been a massive drop already.”
Insp Babb was previously a response team inspector based at Kentish Town police station, and before worked on a London-wide team which focused on gangs.
“From a crime perspective, the new model seems to be working,” she added.
“But regarding how community feels, we have not got that feedback yet.”
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