THURROCK's latest District Commander, Chief Inspector Danny Barnes, has revealed his top priorities as he begins his new role.

Ch Insp Barnes, who recently took up the post, has spent his entire police career on the frontline, most recently serving as a local policing team Inspector in Basildon.

He says those experiences have shaped both his leadership and his approach to community policing and victim care.

"I've been with Essex Police for 27 years, all of which have been spent in response, specialist or community policing roles," he said. "For 15 of those years, I worked as a sergeant, which is where I developed my leadership skills. That experience is something I'll bring with me into this role as District Commander. I want to make a difference with the younger officers."

Ch Insp Barnes said supporting officers and understanding the realities of frontline policing is central to his approach.

"Policing is incredibly varied," he said. "Officers genuinely do run towards danger. One moment, they may be breaking the most awful news to someone about a loved one. At the next job, they could be faced with hostility or violence. Those are the things the public don't always see, and I'm incredibly proud to supervise and lead officers who deal with that every day."

Ch Insp Barnes believes communication — particularly with victims — plays a vital role in public confidence.

"That first contact is crucial," he said. "Speaking to victims, letting them explain their concerns and feeling listened to can make a huge difference. A bit of reassurance and a proper conversation goes much further than an email or a text."

Ch Insp Barnes has identified three clear priorities for Thurrock. The first is tackling violent crime, with a continued focus on domestic abuse and other high‑harm offences that have a lasting impact on victims.

His second priority is reducing anti-social behaviour. "It's a difficult area to tackle, but it has a significant impact on communities and I want to do everything I can to address it and improve quality of life for residents."

The third of Ch Insp Barnes' priorities is making sure victims are looked after and kept informed about their cases.

"Victims should expect the very best levels of care and communication from us," he said. "If that doesn't happen, I will hold officers to account."

Ch Insp Barnes is also keen to improve visibility and community engagement across the district.

"Policing has changed over the years — we're more accountable, and that's right," he said. "Technology has moved us forward, but we know people value seeing officers in their communities. I want our neighbourhood policing teams to be visible, accessible and engaged with the public."

Describing Thurrock as one of the most diverse districts in the county, Ch Insp Barnes said the area presents both challenges and opportunities.

"It's a great place to live and work," he said. "I'll do everything I can to make things that little bit better for the people who live here."