News and Events

The Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Latest Update

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Hello

This week (2-8 February) marks Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week. It can be a difficult and uncomfortable subject for many and particularly for those who have experienced this type of abhorrent abuse. That's why it’s important that we approach the topic with compassion, action and stand alongside all survivors.

Organisations across the UK are taking part in this national event, raising awareness, challenging stigma and highlighting support for survivors.

In Sussex, I have provided funding to several independent organisations to ensure specialist support is available for all victim-survivors of sexual violence, of any age.

You can access free, specialist emotional and practical support, regardless of whether you choose to report the crime to the police or not. These services include Survivors Network, Life Centre, and ManKind Initiative.

You can find out more about these services and the breadth of free support available to victim-survivors of all types of crime on our Safe Space Sussex website.

 

The voice of the public in policing

 

At a meeting of the Sussex Police and Crime Panel last Friday, one Panel member tabled an unannounced and unexpected motion of censure against me.

I was surprised that, having just supported my proposal to increase the police precept by a majority vote, some members of the Panel sought to exploit the meeting with a coordinated personal attack on my integrity.

I think residents in Crowborough will have been very disappointed to see Panel members dismiss their genuine concerns and the confused attempt to portray my efforts as fuelling community tensions.

Since then, I have been overwhelmed by the volume of messages of support and goodwill I have received from residents across Sussex and I am truly grateful to everyone for reaching out.

My office will be lodging a formal complaint challenging the legal basis of the Panel’s motion.

I remain resolute that my role as PCC is to be the voice of the public in policing and I will continue to discharge my responsibilities without fear or favour.

Katy

Katy Bourne OBE
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner

FRIDAY FORCE FOCUS

   

Sussex Police joins four-week Firearms Amnesty

Sussex Police is joining other forces across the country in a four-week Firearms Amnesty for five types of BRUNI-manufactured side / top-venting blank firers (TVBFs) which are now illegal to possess following testing by the National Crime Agency and policing. 

The amnesty will take place between February 2 and 27, 2026, after which anyone in possession of one of the specified TVBFs could be subject to prosecution and up to 10 years’ imprisonment. 

During the amnesty period, those handing in a BRUNI TVBFs will not face prosecution for the illegal possession and will not have to give their details. However, the history of any live firearms handed in will be checked for evidence of its use in crime.

People can hand these blank firers in over the counter at designated police stations between these dates, while anyone unable to travel to one of these locations can call the police on 101 to request it be picked up from their home.

If you have any information around illegal firearms activity, you can contact Sussex Police.

If you don't want to speak to police, you can call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Every call to Crimestoppers is anonymous and could be vital in preventing or solving serious crimes. Removing an illegally held firearm may just save someone’s life.