Police chief quizzed

Nov 1 2007 by Linda Elias, Cynon Valley Leader

A TOP Valleys policeman was quizzed about a lack of officers, antisocial behaviour and joyriders in a groundbreaking online discussion.

Chief Superintendent Jeff Farrar, divisional commander for Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil, took to the internet to answer residents’ questions on the ourbobby.com site.

One resident wrote about the whole neighbourhood being kept awake until the early hours by joyriders.

Mr Farrar replied: “This has been a PACT priority in your area for a few months. I will ensure your community officers update me on the action they have taken.

“These are never easy issues to resolve, however we will do our best. If you have any specific information on those responsible please let us know.”

Another resident asked for more police in her town.

“I would like to ask why it seems that the police are never in the area and if there is a problem we have to wait hours for anyone to turn up?”

Mr Farrar said he would be putting more police officers into the area.

“There are 100 more Pc’s and 83 PCSOs now in RCT and Merthyr than 30 years ago,” he said

South Wales Police say there are likely to plan more web chats.