Ben Houchen is a British politician who has served as the Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland since 2014. He is a former councillor and businessman.
Houchen was born in Middlesbrough and studied at Middlesbrough College and Teesside University. He worked in the hospitality industry before launching his own business, a marketing and communications agency.
Houchen was elected to Middlesbrough Council in 2011 and served as a cabinet member for economic development. In 2014, he was elected as Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland. He is the youngest person to hold this role.
As Police and Crime Commissioner, Houchen has overseen a number of changes to the Cleveland Police. He has increased the number of police officers on the streets and introduced a new crime-fighting strategy. He has also worked to reduce crime and improve public safety.
Houchen is a controversial figure. He has been criticized for his support of austerity measures and his handling of the police budget. However, he is also a popular figure among some voters, who believe that he has made Cleveland a safer place.
Houchen is married with two children. He is a fan of Middlesbrough FC and enjoys playing golf.
Reflection
Ben Houchen is a complex and controversial figure. He is a successful politician who has made significant changes to the Cleveland Police. However, he is also a polarizing figure who has been criticized for his support of austerity measures and his handling of the police budget.
It is important to note that there are many different perspectives on Houchen and his work. Some people believe that he has made Cleveland a safer place, while others believe that he has not done enough to support the police and the community.
It is important to consider all of these perspectives when forming an opinion about Houchen and his work.