In Gloucestershire, Ashley Smith stands as the Labour candidate for the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), deeply rooted in the community with a lifetime of residence and public service as a Councillor on Stroud District Council. His campaign is driven by a commitment to tackle the pressing issues of anti-social behaviour, knife crime, and violence against women and girls, emphasizing a holistic approach to policing and crime prevention.

Ashley Smith for Gloucestershire PCC

Community Roots and Understanding

Ashley’s deep connection to Gloucestershire powers his understanding of the unique challenges faced by its residents. “Having grown up and lived in Gloucestershire my entire life, I know the issues facing our communities,” he states, underscoring his personal investment in improving safety and security for all. His firsthand experience with the impact of anti-social behaviour in his own ward reveals the profound effects such disturbances can have on community well-being.

A Critique of Current Policies

Ashley is critical of the current government’s approach to law enforcement, pointing out the significant reductions in neighbourhood policing and the resultant strain on the justice system. He argues, “The Conservatives have cut neighbourhood policing and crippled our courts. More criminals are being let off and victims let down.” He highlights a stark decrease in crime resolution rates, asserting that criminals today are less than half as likely to be caught as they were under the last Labour government.

Addressing Rural and Urban Challenges

The candidate also draws attention to specific local issues like fly tipping and rural crime, which pose significant problems for Gloucestershire’s farmers and natural landscapes. Furthermore, he acknowledges the safety concerns of shopworkers in urban centers who face violence and threats on a regular basis.

Labour’s Commitment to Safety

With a clear plan to improve public safety, Ashley promises, “Labour will be tough on crime and tough on the causes of crime.” His priority areas include:

  • Tackling anti-social behaviour effectively.

  • Preventing knife crime on our streets.

  • Addressing violence against women and girls to ensure they feel safe in any environment.

Conclusion

Ashley Smith’s platform for Gloucestershire PCC is built on a foundation of experience, local knowledge, and a robust approach to addressing both the symptoms and root causes of crime. His commitment to making Gloucestershire a safer place resonates throughout his campaign, appealing to residents who long for a restored sense of security and community-focused policing.

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Locations: Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, Forest of Dean, Gloucester, Stroud, Tewkesbury, South Cotswolds, North Cotswolds