It’s time to find a new publicly elected official to be the Isle of Wight’s top police chief.
You may have noticed a poll card posted through your letter box in the last few days inviting you to cast your vote for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner.
Since 2021, the position has been filled by the Conservative’s Donna Jones, the former Portsmouth City Council leader and a Hampshire magistrate.
Now the window is open for candidates to put their names forward to become the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner.
Candidates named
So far, two candidates have said they will be standing for the role: the incumbent Donna Jones for the Conservatives and Becky Williams for Labour, a councillor on Rushmoor Borough Council.
Other parties have yet to announce a candidate.
When is the election?
An election will be held on Thursday, 2nd May 2024, to find the next police and crime commissioner, who will be in office until 2028.
The role of a police and crime commissioner is to act as the public’s voice of policing and hold the Chief Constable to account.
They set the budget and priorities for the police force and provide strategic oversight to ensure progress is made.
How to apply
Anyone wanting to stand can get their nomination papers from the police area returning officer at the Civic Centre in Southampton.
They must be returned before 4pm on Friday, 5th April 2024.
£5,000 fee
To stand, candidates have to pay £5,000 and the money must be cleared before the nomination is continued.
The police and crime commissioner is the only major election Islanders will have to vote for this May as the Isle of Wight Council elections will take place next year.
Check you are registered to vote and that you have the correct photo ID.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
