Top cop aims to put a stop to theft

Albany's new top cop is keen to stamp out crime and connect with the community after starting in his new position this week.

Senior Sergeant Grant Pollard replaced Sen. Sgt Quentin Flatman on Monday after relocating to Albany with wife Lee.

Sen. Sgt Pollard brings with him a wealth of experience from across regional WA.

He started out in Lake Grace and has also served in Busselton and Laverton, and has stints as officer-in-charge in Toodyay, the South East Metropolitan Traffic Office in Cannington and the Northam Criminal Intelligence Co-Ordination Unit under his belt.

Born in Narrogin, Sen. Sgt Pollard returned to his roots as officer-in-charge of Narrogin police station in 2010.

He said he was pleased to take up the position as Albany's top cop, having enjoyed visiting the city while growing up in Jerramungup.

"I seem to have had an affectionate affiliation with the Great Southern region throughout my career," he said.

"I'm looking forward to the challenges this position has to offer me.

"The city is in a fantastic location and … has a very strong community feel about it."

Sen. Sgt Pollard said his short-term focus would be stamping out theft.

"Members of the community need to be vigilant with their property security, both at home and whilst stored in vehicles," he said.

"My staff at Albany Police Station will be actively and constantly targeting thieves, whether they be a burglar or shoplifter."

Sen. Sgt Pollard said drug users and distributors and antisocial behaviour were also on his radar.

"Albany police have built a solid reputation as dedicated and community-focused officers and for them to carry out actions successfully we need to work in unison and partnership with the community," he said.