The MP addressed recent violent incidents in the area that saw an 18-year-old die after an alleged stabbing in Poole and a man seriously injured following a “machete attack” in Winton in Bournemouth.
Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes said: “These were serious crimes, and we should throw the book at those responsible.
“But I won’t let them shake our confidence about Bournemouth or dictate how we feel about our town.
“We shouldn’t let them define how we feel about our town.
“Because everywhere I go, I meet people who are proud of where they live, who look out for one another, and who reflect the very best of our community.
“They are the real face of our brilliant town.”
He emphasised the importance of community resilience and ongoing investment in public services and opportunities.
The Bournemouth East MP welcomed new government funding for BCP’s first Youth Hub, describing it as a key step in preventing young people from being drawn into crime.
He said: “Making our town even safer will take time, determination and sustained investment, but Bournemouth’s best days are ahead of us, and I’ll keep fighting for the policing, opportunities and investment that will help get us there.”
Mr Hayes also pointed to recent improvements in local transport and policing, including the addition of 15 extra police officers in the area and upgrades to Pokesdown Station.
He said: “Pokesdown Station will be step-free, faster rail services to London are on the way, NHS waiting lists are coming down.”
Summing up his message to the wider community, Mr Hayes urged the public to support Dorset Police and help bring offenders to justice.
He said: “If you have any information about these incidents, please come forward and speak to Dorset Police.”