New District Commander Takes Charge in Havant and East Hampshire

Chief Inspector Matt Moss has been appointed the new District Commander for Havant and East Hampshire, taking on a significant role in local law enforcement. His appointment, confirmed by Hampshire Police on August 5, 2023, marks a new chapter in a policing career that spans over two decades.

With a strong commitment to community engagement, C/Insp Moss plans to lead a proactive approach to crime prevention in areas such as Alton, Bordon, and Petersfield. He emphasized his intent to ensure that his team will “relentlessly pursue” those committing crimes in both urban and rural settings.

Career Highlights and Leadership Vision

Moss’s career began in Gosport in 2001 and includes a decade of service in Portsmouth. He has held various positions, including leadership of the Triage Hub within the police’s Contact Management Department. Prior to his new role, he was promoted to Chief Inspector in 2023, overseeing the review of most incoming crime reports. His predecessor, Chief Inspector Alex Charge, has advanced to Superintendent, now serving as District Commander for Southampton.

Moss’s leadership philosophy is centered on visibility and community connection. “I am a big believer in being as visible and connected with our communities as possible,” he stated. He encourages open communication, inviting residents to engage with the police on social media and share their concerns regarding local policing priorities.

Community Engagement and Crime Prevention

Moss is particularly focused on maintaining clear communication with crime victims. He expects his team to provide timely updates and support throughout investigations. “If you are unfortunate enough to be a victim of a crime, I expect my teams to contact you, be clear with you on what we are doing, and update you regularly with our progress,” he said.

The community’s involvement is vital to effective policing, according to Moss. He highlighted the importance of public information in tackling crime, stating, “The information you provide plays a vital role in helping us police our communities as effectively as possible.”

Outside of his professional commitments, Moss is a dedicated family man with two daughters and a passionate golfer. He also organizes friendly fixtures for the police’s golf section against local clubs, fostering community relationships.

As he steps into this new role, Chief Inspector Moss aims to tackle the diverse policing challenges in Havant and East Hampshire, ensuring a safer environment for all residents.