Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson had her purse stolen from the hotel where she was speaking at a conference for senior police officers on Tuesday.
The theft occurred while Dame Diana was delivering a speech criticizing the Conservatives for contributing to an “epidemic of antisocial behavior, theft, and shoplifting” at the annual Police Superintendents’ Association (PSA) conference in Kenilworth.
A member of the Home Office staff also had personal items stolen. Warwickshire Police have arrested a 56-year-old man from Coventry on suspicion of burglary; he has been released on bail.
The Home Office stated that no security risks had been identified.
In her speech, Dame Diana criticized the Conservative Party’s record and discussed the government’s plans to enhance neighborhood policing.
Labour’s goal, Dame Diana Johnson stated, is to “restore respect for the rule of law on British streets, including restoring respect for the police, which has unfortunately been eroded over many years.”
She further remarked, “Too many town centers and high streets across the country are suffering from an epidemic of anti-social behavior, theft, and shoplifting, which is undermining our communities and must not be allowed to continue.”
Dame Diana also announced that the government has approved initial funding to support the College of Policing in launching a new specialist training program for neighborhood officers.
Nick Smart, President of the Police Superintendents’ Association (PSA), noted at the conference that police are facing challenges not of their making due to the early release of hundreds of prisoners.
He criticized the lack of proper release plans for inmates, leaving the police to manage the fallout.
Warwickshire Police confirmed they are investigating a burglary reported at the Kenilworth hotel where the PSA conference was held.
A spokesperson said, “The theft occurred between 11:00 BST and 13:15 on Tuesday. Enquiries are ongoing.
A 56-year-old man from Coventry has been arrested on suspicion of burglary and has been released on bail while the investigation continues.”
