Avon and Somerset PCSOs' power to detain considered

The Avon and Somerset Chief Constable is considering giving PCSOs the power to detain, not arrest, the Police and Crime Commissioner has clarified.

Chief Constables are able to designate a number of discretionary powers to Police Community Support Officers.

PCC Sue Mountstevens had told BBC Radio Bristol that arrest powers for PCSOs were being considered by Nick Gargan.

But a spokeswoman has now clarified the power being discussed was the right to detain for up to 30 minutes.

Ms Mountstevens was involved in a discussion about wider PCSO powers with members of the police and crime panel.

There are 384 PCSOs in the area.