TARGETING anti-social behaviour is a top aim of the new Hatfield Neighbourhood Police Sergeant.

Tony Smith, 38, from St Albans, has taken over the role this week from Sergeant Keith Dean who has moved over to Welwyn Garden City.

The father of two will be in charge of a team of eight police officers and 18 Police Community Support Officers Tony said: “It’s about going back to basics.

“It is about people doing what they believe is right by collectively standing up to be counted. “If there is a criminal within a community, then that community needs to bring it to our attention, then by working together, we can find a long-term sustainable solution.

“Neighbourhood policing is about looking out for each other and being a responsible neighbour. “We need the public’s help to do our job as all crimes have victims.

He named his top priorities of anti-social behaviour, burglaries and improving partnership opportunities across Hatfield.

Working with schools and parents is at the top of his agenda to tackle youth crime and is encouraging his team to continuing building relationships with the community.

He said: “It may be, for example, that a group of young people appear intimidating to other members of the public but they may not be causing crime or anti-social behaviour.

“So it is about working with schools and parents to educate them about the way they may be perceived and educating people who may feel intimidated by explaining that they are just being young people.”

After the role for two years, Tony, a rock climber in his spare time, is looking forward to getting to grips with his new position and put his inspector hopes on hold.

He said: “Being part of a community is vitally important to me personally and I’m thrilled to be doing this role.

“I’ve spent most of my career responding to emergency calls and have never had the opportunity to take ownership of an area and find solutions to neighbourhood issues.

“I am enjoying the problem-solving, partnership working aspects of this role.

“I really want to make a difference to the people of Hatfield.

“I will ensure, as far as possible, that my officers remain on their allocated wards, so that you have a dedicated police officer and PCSO who are providing a high-visibility, reassuring presence and are available to speak to you about any concerns you may be experiencing.”