Welwyn Hatfield’s new Chief Inspector has warned she will continue to take a “no-nonsense” approach to antisocial behaviour after recently taking the helm.

Tannis Perks, who previously held the same position for Hertsmere and Stevenage, has said her two main priorities will be tackling antisocial behaviour (ASB) and drug-related crime.

“For ASB we will continue to take a no-nonsense approach and will also be working closely with parents of young people involved and I look forward to building further on this alongside Welwyn Hatfield Council,” she said.

“During my career I have seen the misery drugs use can cause, as well as the crime and disorder it can bring to an area, and sadly Welwyn Hatfield is no different.

“More recently, Hatfield has experienced drug-related offences fuelled by offenders coming from London and the team has had great success in disrupting this criminality, through arrests, drug seizure and convictions.

“I am determined that we will continue to come down hard on those responsible for these offences to continue to drive drugs out of Welwyn Hatfield.”

CI Perks, who will be responsible for over 120 officers and police staff, has replaced Chief Inspector Ruth Dodsworth, who has been promoted into the role of Temporary Local Policing Command Superintendent in Watford.

The new CI started her career as a Special Constable in 1998, before spending her early years in North Herts as a police constable and training to be a detective constable.

CI Perks has also been involved in several high-profile cases including the conviction of ‘the Rolex robbers’ in Hoddesdon – where two men killed the wife of a millionaire and attempted to murder her son and his girlfriend.

Reflecting on her career so far, she said: “I always wanted to join the police and left school at 16 to do so. After nearly 28 years’ service, I still enjoy coming to work every day and I wouldn’t want to do any other job.

“Over the years it has been hard seeing people at their most vulnerable, but despite the circumstances, part of the job is to help people through difficult situations and it is rewarding when you know you have achieved that.”

She hailed the “fantastic team” she has around her and the role they play, and urged residents to “do their bit” by reporting crime and being community-spririted by joining schemes like Neighbourhood Watch.