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 February.
But he also had an important message to residents.
“I want to begin with something incredibly important,” he said.
“Many of you will have seen the news about the sentencing of the man convicted of murdering Steph Irons in Mapperley last October. He has now been jailed for 25 years.
“While no sentence can ever bring a loved one back, I truly hope this outcome offers some measure of comfort and closure to Steph’s family and friends as they continue to deal with their loss.
“My thoughts remain very much with them. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to all emergency service colleagues who responded on the day and worked tirelessly throughout the investigation, as well as to the local community for their support.”
The Inspector informed residents that the January to March 2026 priorities will remain in place and these are Acquisitive Crime (Burglary, Robbery, Shoplifting, Theft), Anti-Social Behaviour (including behavioural, motorcycle, speeding, begging) and Drugs (Possession, Supply, Cannabis Cultivation).
Acquisitive Crime
Inspector King began his update by sharing progress his team have made on tackling retail crime across the borough.
“We’ve recently wrapped up Operation Descent,” he said.
“It’s a 12-month problem-solving plan aimed at tackling repeated shop theft at the five most affected locations in Gedling South.”
“I’m really pleased to say the results speak for themselves – a 34% reduction at those hotspots. It’s a fantastic achievement and huge credit goes to the team who led this work.
“We’ve now launched Operation Descent 2, based on refreshed data identifying a new top five locations. We’re making much better use of technology this time around and applying everything we learned from the first phase to continue improving.”
The Inspector said Operation Shifted is ‘also progressing well’.
It focusses on repeat shoplifting in Arnold Town Centre and the surrounding areas,” he said.
He said there had been a slight increase in auto crime, particularly around the Daybrook and Bonington beat areas.
“Our enquiries are ongoing, but I’d ask residents to please double check that vehicles are locked and any valuables removed.
“If you have a keyless entry vehicle, storing your keys in a Faraday bag or box is a simple way to protect against “relay thefts” – and they’re inexpensive and easy to get hold of. “
Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB)
ASB continues its year-on-year downward trend, now sitting at around an 18% reduction on a rolling 12-month basis.
The Inspector said: “We do still see the occasional youth-related ASB incidents and with spring just around the corner it’s possible we’ll see a little more activity as our young people make use of parks and high streets. That said, our teams continue to work closely with partners to divert young people away from getting involved in ASB wherever possible, as well as dealing robustly with unacceptable behaviour.”
He said the team will be contributing to Immediate Justice, a scheme where offenders complete community payback in the local area.
“This not only provides consequences for behaviour but also helps improve the same communities affected,” the Inspector said.
Drugs
Inspector King said targeting drug supply ‘remains a priority’.
“We recently carried out a warrant in Calverton which resulted in a significant seizure of controlled drugs and cash. There’s further enforcement activity planned in the coming months.
“I remain determined to disrupt drug supply in Gedling as the impact on our communities is clear and often devastating. I’d really encourage residents to keep reporting any concerns to us.
“You can contact us via 101, the Nottinghamshire Police website, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.”
