Ashington arrests as Northumberland drives down crime

Posted by Kim Carmichael on Oct 29, 08 02:31 PM in News

Criminals in Ashington got an early morning wake up call today after a series of dawn raids by Northumbria Police.

The "arrest day" marked the start of a major initiative aimed at driving down crime throughout Northumberland over the coming months.

police raids in Ashington

More than 50 officers hit addresses in the county, arresting people wanted for offences ranging from violence to theft. Other targets include people who fail to appear in court and those who have breached community sentences.

By 1pm a total of 16 properties had been visited, leading to 22 people being arrested. The figure is set to rise further. Suspected stolen property and controlled drugs were also recovered.

And police are warning criminals they can expect regular follow-up visits if they continue breaking the law.

Northumberland Area Commander Chief Supt Kevin Lambert, said: "Northumberland Area Command has an excellent history of driving down crime over the years and we are determined this will continue.

"People need to know this is just the beginning. If they commit crime they will be targeted by us and can expect regular visits. As ever, it is the small minority who try and affect the quality of life of others.

"Today's operation involved neighbourhood teams, CID officers and community support officers working together to identify the people who are causing us problems or playing the system.

"However, the policing operation will not stop here, we have a number of initiatives in the pipeline over the coming weeks and months to ensure crime levels keep going in the right direction and we can continue to ensure a safer Northumberland.

"The public can also help us by playing their part. We already enjoy good support from the community and would ask anyone with information about crime in their neighbourhood to contact us on 03456 043 043."

We'd like to hear from you.
Send your stories, pics and videos to northumberland@ncjmedia.co.uk