WITHAM MP Priti Patel has praised Essex Police Chief Constable BJ Harrington ahead of his retirement later this year.
Ms Patel met with Chief Constable Harrington to discuss policing priorities across the county and the actions being taken to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour.
During their meeting, they reflected on their long-standing collaboration on policing matters at both constituency and national level.
Ms Patel said: "BJ Harrington has been an outstanding Chief Constable of Essex Police and I was delighted to meet with him before he retires later this year after 27 years of faithful service to his country and community.
"I have worked with the Chief Constable BJ Harrington both as a constituency MP and as Home Secretary on local and national policing issues, and his leadership, dedication and contribution to policing will be greatly missed when he steps down.
"Keeping our communities safe remains one of my highest priorities.
"By working together with BJ Harrington, Police Fire and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst and Essex Police, we have increased police numbers in Essex to record levels, strengthened action against organised and violent crime, increased town centre policing, and ensured greater support for victims.
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"I will continue to work closely with Essex Police and local policing leaders to support the work being done to tackle crime, reduce anti-social behaviour and keep residents across Witham and Essex safe."
The meeting also covered the importance of visible policing, protecting and supporting victims, and ensuring that police forces have the resources they need.
During Chief Constable Harrington's tenure, Essex has seen record police officer numbers, a stronger focus on town centre safety, and intensified efforts to combat organised and violent crime.
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