Statement from Hampshire and Isle of Wight chief constable on news reports regarding arrests

In response to today's news reports regarding arresting people, the following statement has been issued.

Chief Constable Scott Chilton said: “Relentlessly pursuing criminals and giving victims the service they expect from policing remain our core priorities. We continue to be proactive in arresting those who are suspected of committing crimes, targeting prolific offenders and people who are wanted on warrants. We are arresting more people and bringing them into our custody centres, and this remains our approach. We are aware of the pressures being faced by our partners within the wider criminal justice system, and working with them to ensure that people can continue to be brought before the courts in a timely manner. We will provide the support required, but we must keep the public safe.”