Cleveland Police arrest 124 people under Operation Fortress
It's helping to reduce ASB, deliberate fires & crime in the Hemlington area
124 arrests have been made since 1st May as part of ongoing Operation Fortress in Hemlington.
The operation, which continues to maintain reductions in ASB, deliberate fires and crime within the Hemlington area, continues as the darker nights draw in.
Since the operation began in February this year, police and partner agencies including Middlesbrough Council, Cleveland Fire Brigade, Thirteen Housing and Habinteg have dedicated time and resources to working with the community to tackle issues caused by a minority of people at the detriment to the majority of the local residents.
Since 1st May there have been 124 arrests for various alleged offences in the Hemlington area, with 31 of those have already been charged to court, 45 have pending interventions or used diversionary opportunities, 31 investigations are still ongoing, one person has been recalled to prison and 16 people have been arrested on an outstanding warrant.
The alleged offences include criminal damage, arson, drugs offences, public order, possession of weapons and theft.
Local policing Superintendent Rachel Stockdale said:
“Since the beginning of this operation there have been some significant reductions in crime and antisocial behaviour, which is exactly what we aimed for.
“By all coming together and working closely with our partners and the Hemlington community, we have been able to reduce the number of incidents and deal robustly with those who make life a misery for others. Once again I would like to thank the local community for coming forward and speaking with us about their concerns and their issues.
“We are not complacent and we know there is still some way to go, but we are pleased with the improvements we have seen so far and our dedication to this operation is unwavering; we will not stop, along with our partners, in tackling the issues that mean so much to the Hemlington community.”
Anyone who wishes to speak to police or raise concerns about issues in Hemlington can do so by calling 101, or calling independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or go online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
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