Clare Moody Faces Backlash as Yeovil Forum Highlights Police Commissioner’s Disconnect from Local Crime Issues
In a shocking turn of events, Somerset Police Commissioner Clare Moody has been branded "clueless" by concerned residents of Yeovil after preparing to host an open forum at a venue leased by an individual with known ties to criminal activity, specifically illegal drug abuse.
This misstep has raised serious questions about Moody's understanding of local crime dynamics and her commitment to community safety whilst the majority of the town's residents are aware of the illegal activities.
A Venue Connected Cocaine Abuse
The choice of venue for the forum—leased from a person linked to drug-related activity—has left many residents astonished and disillusioned. Attendees expected a robust discussion on pressing crime issues but were instead met with an environment that many argue undermines the very purpose of the event. Critics say that hosting a community forum in such a location sends the wrong message about the seriousness with which the police take local crime concerns.
Voices from the Community
Residents have not held back in expressing their frustrations. Local business owner Sarah Jenkins lamented, "It feels like a slap in the face to the community. How can we trust that our concerns about crime are being taken seriously when the Commissioner chooses to host a forum in a place connected to illegal activity?"
Another resident, Mark Thompson, stated, "This just shows how out of touch Clare Moody is with the realities we face. It’s not just about talking to us; it’s about understanding the environment in which these discussions are taking place."
A Pattern of Disconnection?
This incident is not an isolated one. Many locals have pointed to a growing disconnect between the police leadership and the community they serve. Residents feel that their voices are often drowned out by bureaucratic processes, leading to an erosion of trust in law enforcement. The choice of venue only exacerbates this perception, suggesting that Moody and her team may not be fully aware of the on-the-ground issues affecting Yeovil.
Calls for Accountability
As public outcry continues to mount, calls for accountability have emerged. Community leaders are urging Clare Moody to reassess her approach to engaging with residents and to prioritise venues that reflect a commitment to tackling crime head-on. “We need a police commissioner who listens and is willing to confront the realities of crime in our community,” said local activist Emma Patel. Meanwhile Bob Johnson said: ' It shows how out of touch she is with real life crime.'
A Critical Moment for Leadership
Clare Moody now faces a critical juncture in her leadership. The Yeovil forum incident serves as a wake-up call for the Commissioner to reconnect with the community and its concerns about safety and crime. As local residents demand more transparency and engagement, the question remains: will Moody rise to the occasion, or will this misstep further alienate her from those she is meant to serve?
The time for action is now. Yeovil residents are watching closely, and their patience may soon run out if meaningful changes are not made.
People in Yeovil and surrounding areas are being asked to join Clare Moody, Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, and officers from the local policing team, for a public forum where they can influence the future of policing.
Clare Moody will host six forums across Avon and Somerset to hear from the public.
The final forum is happening in Yeovil at Yeovil Town Football Club, Lufton Way Brympton d’Evercy BA22 8YF on 9 October.
One of PCC Clare’s key responsibilities is to develop a Police and Crime Plan – a strategy for policing across all areas in Avon and Somerset.
Clare has created the draft plan, based on the demand issues for Avon and Somerset Police and what people told Clare their priorities are, while she was campaigning on the doorstep and talking to local people in the run up to her election in May.