Police reinvest money from criminal activity to support community football sessions

Devon & Cornwall Police have reinvested money from illegal activity to help fund community football sessions in South Devon.

The Force’s Diverse Communities Team (DCT) used £900 from the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) to run a series of ten free community football sessions to people aged over 18.

The sessions aim to bring people together to raise awareness of hate crime and improve relationships and trust between the community and the police. People from all backgrounds are encouraged to come along.

The free football sessions are run in collaboration with Torbay Communities and Torquay United Community Sports Trust (TUCST).

The POCA fund is made up of money seized from criminals and proceeds made from criminal assets that are sold by the police at auction. This money is then reinvested for good by awarding it to local projects who make a difference in the community.

Police Sergeant Chris Chaloner said: “It’s great that we can use profits of crime to fund worthwhile causes. These sessions, delivered by TUCST, are designed to provide a safe place for all members of the community to come together and have fun.

“They are put on with the intention of bringing people together and creating a sense of inclusion within the communities of Torbay. Alongside our partners, we hope to continue running these sessions in the future by exploring further funding options available.”

Police teams in South Devon award grants to a range of projects, charities, and groups in the area from local foodbanks to volunteer training. Recently they funded a new fridge freezer for a foodbank in Totnes.

Police in South Devon are pleased to continue furthering their impact in 2024 and funding more worthwhile causes in communities.

For more information about POCA funding, get in touch with your local neighbourhood police team: Your area | Devon & Cornwall Police (devon-cornwall.police.uk).

A hate crime is defined as 'any criminal offence which is perceived by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person's race or perceived race; religion or perceived religion; sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation; disability or perceived disability and any crime motivated by hostility or prejudice against a person who is transgender or perceived to be transgender.'

Hate crime comes in many different forms and strikes at the heart of communities. With your help, Devon & Cornwall Police can tackle those responsible for hate crime and keep our communities safe. We're here and ready to help anyone who has been affected by someone else's prejudice, ignorance or violence. Click here for more information about hate crime and how to report it.