New Kettering police leader's message to criminals: "Prepare to get caught"

A Kettering police team's new leader has one simple message to criminals blighting our streets - prepare to get caught.

Sergeant Matt Rock, who has worked for Northamptonshire Police for 15 years, is now in charge of the Kettering Neighbourhood Team.

He wants police to be more visible, hopes to expand the team and says his officers will be engaging with the public on the issues important to them.

He said: "I want you to feel safe on our streets and to be safe on our roads. I will ensure that the team continue their hard work in doing all we can to make that happen.

"My team will be engaging with you to ensure we deal with issues that are important to you. I encourage you to put your trust in them and continue passing them valuable information that assists us in identifying those individuals that have blatant disregard for the law.

"If you choose to bring crime and disruption to Kettering be prepared to get caught because we will pursue you robustly to ensure you are brought to justice."

Sgt Rock's career so far has seen him work in a variety of frontline roles, all based in Kettering.

He said: "I’m excited to take on this role and to provide new direction to the team.

"Since my arrival I have found the work ethic of the team to be fantastic and am sure that they will continue to work hard to keep the people of Kettering safe and to bring the fight to those who choose to commit crime in our town.

"Some people report they do not see enough of the police which is something I want to change.

"I am hopeful that the team will be expanding towards the end of the year which will make us even more effective in ensuring that we keep the people of Kettering safe and that we are well equipped to pursue those who choose to flout the law within our community."