The Mike Hosking Breakfast
Andrew Coster: Outgoing Police Commissioner on his career, crime rates, new role leading the Social Investment Agency
Episode guests
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Andrew Coster acknowledges the challenge of maintaining police independence amid shifting political priorities and public perceptions of effectiveness.
- He emphasizes the long-term social consequences of the COVID pandemic that continue to influence crime rates and policing strategies.
Deep dives
Navigating Political Pressures in Policing
The discussion highlights the intricate relationship between the role of a police commissioner and political dynamics, emphasizing that while police operations are meant to be independent, they are influenced by the government's priorities. The outgoing police commissioner acknowledges that public perceptions of police effectiveness can vary significantly depending on the government in power, suggesting that shifts in political focus impact law enforcement strategies. He notes that during his tenure, the police adapted to align with newer governmental directives, which led to differing public interpretations of police actions. This interplay between political expectations and police capabilities creates ongoing challenges for maintaining public trust and operational integrity.
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