Detective Chief Superintendent Blackburn brings over two decades of policing experience, joining the force in Bexley in 1999. His varied career includes time with the Flying Squad and a tenure as a detective sergeant in Southwark borough policing. He takes over from Commander Andy Brittain, who left Croydon on promotion.
The visit focused on experiencing Croydon town centre first-hand, engaging directly with local businesses to listen to their concerns and understand the issues impacting the area.
Conversations covered topics such as the impact of persistent offenders on businesses and their employees, providing intelligence on the issue, as well as offering advice on how to strengthen businesses that are repeatedly targeted by shoplifters.
The walk-around allowed Mr Blackburn and Mr Weston to see key hotspots and gather intelligence alongside BID Street Rangers and other police officers out on patrols.
The day proved eventful, culminating in the arrest of a known prolific offender committing multiple offences, highlighting the active and responsive nature of the partnership in tackling issues on the ground.
Croydon town centre’s policing priorities remain clear, targeting offences that cause the greatest harm and disruption to residents and businesses, including:
- Knife Crime
- Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)
- Shoplifting and Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB)
While these remain focal points, the Borough Commander and his team remain committed to addressing all types of crime across the town centre to ensure Croydon remains a safe and welcoming place for all.
Croydon BID looks forward to building on the strong working relationship with Detective Chief Superintendent Blackburn and Chief Inspector Weston.
