Gedling neighbourhood policing team’s new Inspector Steve King has provided an update on how they have progressed on tackling crime across the borough during October..
He said: “Residents will no doubt be aware of the tragic death of Stephanie Irons, known as Steph to her friends and family. Police were called to an address on Westdale Lane West at 10.07pm on Tuesday, October 21 where Steph was sadly found deceased. A male has since been charged with murder and remanded to prison. It is believed that the victim and suspect were known to each other.
“I wanted to pass on my deepest condolences to Steph’s family, friends and loved ones at this exceptionally difficult time. It is also not lost on me the impact that this incident will have had on the local community, and I would like to pass on my thanks for their continued patience and support. “
PRIORITIES
The Inspector said: “October saw the setting of new priorities for Gedling borough which will run until the new year. These are Acquisitive Crime (Burglary, Robbery, Shoplifting, Theft), Anti-Social Behaviour (including behavioural, motorcycle, speeding, begging), and Drugs (Possession, Possession with intent to supply, cultivation of cannabis).
“Here’s the latest update on progress made during October:”
Acquisitive Crime: Considerable work continues to target repeat offenders for acquisitive crime. Two of our most prolific shop theft offenders have been issued with Criminal Behaviour Orders over recent months, with several more prepared and awaiting court dates being set.
Burglary: Overall we have seen theft offences fall by 15% in the last month which is 22 less offences. Burglary is also down by 36% which is really positive. That said, I am really mindful of the darker nights now being with us and Christmas fast approaching which can often see an increase in acquisitive crime. To that end, it is worth reminding residents to consider their home security to make life as difficult as possible for potential intruders. Improving security features such as locks, alarms, CCTV, lighting, and doorbell cameras can also make a big difference in deterring potential burglars, as well as making sure your house always looks occupied.
Anti-social behaviour: ”Days of action have continued throughout October to tackle various forms of ASB. Our team has benefitted from the Off-Road Bike Team being deployed across Gedling borough to tackle nuisance motorbikes and electric bikes.
The Gedling NPT worked closely with our Roads Policing Unit colleagues for an operation targeting road traffic offences which have a detrimental impact on the local community. During one day of action 14 Traffic Offence Reports (TORs) were issued to motorists for various offences including speeding, failing to wear seat belts and for driving without due care and attention.
Bonfire night can often see a spike in ASB related issues, we have officers that will be out on patrol over this period so should you experience any issues please do report this via 101 at the time.
Through the hard work of the NPT and partners, recorded ASB is down over 28% in the last month and over 26% in a rolling 12 month period. That said, I am not complacent and am mindful that statistics do not always capture the public perception of safety in the community.
Drug offences: In respect of drug offences, a number of intelligence-led operations have taken place during October to disrupt the supply of controlled drugs. One example was a joint operation with colleagues from the City North NPT where a series of warrants were executed across the areas with large amounts of controlled drugs being recovered from various addresses, including one within Arnold.
We now have a new Local Intelligence Officer within the Gedling area who is busy developing intelligence to support our priorities, so further enforcement and prevention activity will take place in the coming months.
