Crime and Policing Act 2026 welcomed by Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner

Crime and Policing Act 2026 welcomed by Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner

The Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, has welcomed the introduction of the Crime and Policing Act 2026, highlighting the opportunities it presents for tackling crime, antisocial behaviour, serious violence, and exploitation.

Speaking about the new legislation, he said: “This is one of the most significant pieces of criminal justice legislation we have seen in recent years. Many of the measures reflect work that is already underway here in Dorset, particularly around tackling antisocial behaviour, strengthening neighbourhood policing, and improving support for victims and I am pleased to say that Dorset is already well placed to implement many of the changes set out in the Act.”

The Commissioner went on to highlight certain important developments, particularly the expansion of drug testing on arrest as a key measure within the Act.

“We know that drug misuse is a key driver of many crimes, from theft and antisocial behaviour to serious violence and that expanding drug testing on arrest is a positive step forward. It will allow police to test more offenders, across a wider range of offences and substances, and help identify those who need support. This is not just about enforcement - it is about intervention and breaking the cycle of offending by directing individuals into treatment at the earliest opportunity.

“However, I do have some concerns about the lack of dedicated funding to support the expansion of drug-testing. Without sufficient resources - including officer time, custody capacity, and treatment services - there is a real risk that this policy will not achieve its full potential.

“If the Government is serious about tackling drug-related crime and reducing reoffending, then funding must follow ambition.

“I am also pleased to see that the Act has a strengthened focus on tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG). The measures in this Act are both necessary and long overdue. New offences and stronger powers to tackle behaviours such as spiking, stalking and abuse will help improve victim confidence and ensure offenders are brought to justice.

“Here in Dorset, tackling VAWG is already a priority. We are working closely with partners to improve support for victims and increase reporting, and these legislative changes will absolutely strengthen that work further.”

The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of new safeguards for children and vulnerable people and a very practical development that will deal with a specific type of anti-social behaviour.

“I strongly welcome the additional measures to protect children from exploitation and abuse. The Act introduces new offences and duties around child criminal exploitation, grooming and safeguarding, alongside stronger requirements to report child sexual abuse.

“Importantly, it recognises that children caught up in exploitation are victims first, not offenders. This reflects the approach we are already taking in Dorset, working with partners to identify risk early and intervene to protect those most vulnerable.

“Finally, I would like to mention how the Act will make a very real difference to those who are having to deal with the nuisance of anti-social vehicle use. The Act has made provision to strengthen police powers to combat anti-social driving, with the removal of the requirement to issue a Section 59 warning before a vehicle can be seized. This will allow officers to act faster and more decisively. It means that vehicles being used in a way that causes alarm, distress or annoyance can be taken off the road immediately, and I know this will be a significant development for the individuals and groups across Dorset who have already raised this issue with me. This is a very practical change that I hope will make a real difference to the people and communities who continue to be affected by it.”

Looking ahead, the Commissioner stressed that implementation will be key.

“Legislation alone does not change outcomes. Delivery will depend on proper resourcing, strong local partnerships and a continued focus on prevention as well as enforcement and as such, I will continue to scrutinise the work of Dorset Police when it comes to the implementation of this new legislation and ensure that every opportunity is being taken by them to tackle a range of crimes that directly effect the people and communities of Dorset.

“Overall, I welcome many aspects of the Crime and Policing Act 2026. It reflects the reality of modern crime and provides important tools to protect our communities.”