The number of PCSOs on Sussex streets has fallen by over a quarter in recent years, a report has found.
Sussex Police employed a total of 234 full-time equivalent PCSOs in September 2022, 91 fewer than in 2015.
The statistics, commissioned by the Liberal Democrats, show that levels have fallen by 27.8 per cent. This fall is lower than the national average, where active PCSOs have fallen by a third across England and Wales.
James MacCleary, leader of East Sussex County Council and Lib Dem parliamentary candidate for Lewes, said: “These shocking figures prove that Conservative ministers are yet again failing to prevent crime in Lewes, Seaford, Newhaven and Polegate.
“Police Community Support Officers play a vital role in keeping our communities safe. The government should be empowering them to do their job, not slashing their numbers into oblivion.
“Liberal Democrats are calling for a return to proper community policing, where officers are visible, trusted and are a part of local communities. We should aim to build communities where people are safe - and feel safe, too.”
The Lib Dems have also called for a return to “proper community policing” by raising the number of PCSOs on the streets.
Statistics for PCSOs refer to the number of officers employed at the time rather than roles available. Sussex Police currently have 292 PCSO roles in the force.
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The force said it is actively recruiting for new officers to fill 49 vacant roles.
Police Community Support Officers work with police officers and share some powers including issuing fixed penalty notices and taking alcohol off someone who is under age.
PCSOs can also ask a police officer to arrest someone.
A spokeswoman for Sussex Police said: “PCSOs are a vital part of our local policing service – helping to solve local challenges by getting out into the towns and villages of Sussex, meeting people and offering advice and support.
“Working alongside our other policing teams, PCSOs help us fulfil our commitment to protect our communities, catch criminals and deliver an outstanding service to victims and witnesses.”
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