Making Warkworth the safest place in New Zealand is the number one goal for new Warkworth Police Sergeant Mark Stallworthy.
Sgt Scott Sherer, who has been running the Warkworth station since the departure of Bede Haughey seven months ago, officially handed over to Sgt Stallworthy on April 19.
Sgt Stallworthy says his focus on cutting crime will be around accessibility and visibility in the community.
“Prevention is the key to success and I want people to know they are more than welcome to come into the station, between 8am and 4pm, or call us at any time to report any issues of concern,” he says.
“We would prefer to be out on the road dealing with problems than sitting in the office waiting for them to happen.”
After three years of living in the Warkworth area with a growing family, he says he is very invested in making the region safe.
“I will be working closely with groups such as Springboard, Mahurangi College and the community patrol to utilise what they can offer.
“We are also interested to attend events or community meetings, and we have a community constable starting at Warkworth in the next two months.”
Prior to this new role, Sgt Stallworthy was based in Orewa as the Rodney shift sergeant and oversaw the region’s operations.
He started policing where he grew up in Kerikeri before moving to Harbour Bridge motorway patrol. He has also been involved with the tactical policing unit, investigations unit and was front-line acting sergeant at North Shore Police Centre in charge of 12 constables.
Sgt Sherer says he has enjoyed working with the Mahurangi community and dealing with everyday issues during his time in Warkworth.
“It’s been a busy period and I’ve seen how this community is adapting to the growth it’s facing,” Sgt Sherer says.
“It’s sad to see the growing road toll here and it was a shame we couldn’t get conclusive answers on the Maree Wilkins case, but I’m excited about what Mark can bring to the station moving forwards.”
To report any issues to the Warkworth Police Station, call 425 8109.
