New Year's Message
30th December 2011, Insp Bill Knopp
I would like to round off the year by summarising the some of the achievements and challenges faced by your team of officers at Spinney Hill. Overall crime is modestly down by 2% but within that figure are more impressive reductions. Offences of domestic burglary and violence against the person are both down by 7%. Racially aggravated offences have are also down by 14%. As with all statistics there are ups and down and one of the challenges facing us next year will be to reduce the increase of 50% in street robberies. As well as targeting offenders we will work with schools and colleges to increase awareness of this offence as many of our victims are school pupils.
In response to residents concerns over drug dealing we continue to run Operation Lake targeting dealers and users alike. We have arrested seven people since November for possession with intent supply. One male has been remanded in custody whilst the rest remain on bail. We have also obtained a "Crack House" closure for an address on Abingdon Road. The occupants, who were causing misery to local residents, have been evicted. We will continue to take positive action against those people who cause harm to communities through the supply of drugs. Intelligence is the lifeblood of these operations and I would urge residents to contact us in confidence and tell us your concerns. Alternatively call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.
Congratulations to Ben Broad who has won Community Support Officer of the year. Well deserved and Ben received fantastic backing from the community on Coleman ward, so thanks to those who came forward to nominate him. Also our team of Special Constables have been in the lime light, winning the Saville trophy for their support to regular colleagues during the August disorder. It is worth noting that the team have contributed over 3700 hours of their own time this year to the community - all for free!
Finally I would like to wish all residents a Happy and Safe New Year
