Message from police leaders as enhanced patrols continue in Bournemouth
Police leaders issue a statement as enhanced patrols are set to continue in Bournemouth over the weekend and moving forward.
Dorset Police Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne said: “I would like to thank our communities in and around Bournemouth for their support and patience through what I know will have been an unsettling week for many.
“Our thoughts remain with the family of Amie Gray and the survivor of the incident on Durley Chine Beach on Friday 24 May 2024.
“The closure of the beach around Durley Chine will have affected many local people, visitors and businesses and I don’t underestimate the inconvenience caused as a result.
“Many police officers and staff have not only been involved in the investigation throughout the last week, but also have maintained a highly visible presence in the town to answer any questions local people have had and try to be as accessible as possible at a time of heightened concern.
“It has always been our intention to keep our communities as informed of developments as quickly and effectively as possible throughout the week both via local media and face to face when out on patrol.
“I appreciate the public want to and indeed should be given information to allay fears and concerns. That is balanced against maintaining the integrity of a highly complex investigation, which has moved at a pace throughout the week.
“Hopefully, Dorset Police has struck that balance to maintain public confidence as much as possible, accepting there is still significant work to be done with partners across the town to ensure public safety is maintained as a paramount concern.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am deeply saddened by this devastating incident. My thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Amie Gray, as well as with the woman who was seriously injured. The grief and pain those affected will be feeling is unimaginable, and I want to send my condolences to them all.
“I know this incident has sent shockwaves through our community and I want to assure you Dorset Police has worked relentlessly to get to this crucial stage, while providing essential reassurance to our communities through enhanced and visible policing. I also want to thank all the officers and staff who have worked around the clock on this investigation so far, as well as the community who have come forward and provided vital information so important to this type of enquiry.
“No one can fail to be shocked by the events on 24 May 2024 and while Dorset is generally a safe county to live and visit, I fully acknowledge this tragic incident means many may not feel safe right now.
“I want to assure you that dealing with violent crime is a priority and I will continue to ensure the Force has every tool at their disposal to tackle reports of this nature. Once the full facts are known, I will be discussing the need for further measures with the Chief Constable. Alongside continued robust policing, a multi-agency approach and vital support from the community, we will continue the work to reduce violence and ensure Dorset is a safe place to live and visit.
“I want to be very clear – violence of any form will not be tolerated in Dorset, and I will not rest while there is still work to do to drive down atrocious crimes and ensure the safety of the people who live, work, and visit our county.”
