The new Swindon policing boss has outlined his plans to make the town safer – as he vows to tackle knife crime.
Superintendent Mike Vass said it is a privileged to take the role, joining Wiltshire Police after serving with Avon and Somerset Police since 2004.
In an open letter to the residents of Swindon, the senior officer said: “I am delighted to introduce myself as the newly appointed Swindon Hub Commander for Wiltshire Police.
“It is a privilege to serve Swindon, and I look forward working with communities, listening to experiences with Wiltshire Police, and exploring how we can work together, deliver an outstanding service and keep our town safe.”
He said he brings experience from various operational policing roles in Bristol, working closely with partners and residents throughout his career.
Supt Vass said: “Throughout my career I worked across many areas of operational Policing in the city of Bristol.
“As I have moved up through various roles and command functions I have worked closely with communities and partners to collaboratively do all we can to protect the public.”
He said he has experienced both the difficult realities of crime and the positive resilience shown by communities.
Adding: “During this time, I have witnessed both the harsh realities of crime and the most uplifting moments of community resilience. Through it all, my passion for policing – and for the communities we serve – has never wavered.”
For the past decade he has led Avon and Somerset Police’s work on knife crime, describing recent years as particularly challenging.
Supt Vass said: “For the past decade, I have led Avon and Somerset Police’s response to knife crime. The last two years have been particularly challenging, with a troubling rise in violence and tragic losses among young people.
“These experiences have reinforced my belief that policing alone cannot solve such complex issues. Real progress requires collaboration – working closely with partner agencies, charities, and, most importantly, with you, our communities.
“Together, we can share information, build trust, and create safer spaces for future generations.”
He said he has already begun building partnerships to bring additional approaches and resources into Wiltshire. Alongside his main role, he will also lead the force’s strategic response to knife crime, business crime and the pursuit of outstanding offenders.
Superintendent Mike Vass, said: “I am grateful for the opportunity to lead Swindon Police and to continue driving forward initiatives that deliver outstanding policing for all.
“I have already begun forging partnerships across the region to bring new approaches and resources to Wiltshire.
“In addition to my role as Hub Commander, I will also lead our strategic response to knife crime, business crime, and the pursuit of outstanding offenders.
“Thank you for welcoming me into this role. I look forward to working alongside you to make Swindon a safer and stronger community.”
