Super-sleuth recruits are an instant success

Reporter: RICHARD HOOTON
Date online: 10 March 2010

Newcomers make 52 arrests in six weeks

NEW police recruits to neighbourhood teams have proved their worth after making dozens of arrests for drug-dealing and burglary.

Six extra officers have joined Oldham West and Oldham East Neighbourhood Policing Teams to crackdown on drug dealing, gangs and anti-social behaviour.

And since starting in mid-January the officers have made 52 arrests for various offences including drug-dealing, possession of heroin, public-order offences and burglary.

They have also executed five warrants, seized 15 cars and handed out 18 cannabis warnings.

During the first week of the officers being in place, one tracked down and arrested a teenage graffiti artist responsible for causing £4,500 of damage across Oldham West.

He has since been to court and ordered to pay £570 compensation for the damage caused.

Sgt Trevor Harrison said: “In just six weeks, we have already had some great results. We are dedicated to tackling the issues that residents tell us are affecting their quality of life and will continue to crack down on the people who are blighting our communities. The additional officers support the Neighbourhood Policing Teams and allow us to send an even starker warning to offenders that we are determined to get them off Oldham’s streets and make life safer for our residents.

“This is part of our commitment to delivering the Policing Pledge, giving people a clear minimum standard of service they can expect from their local police and addressing the issues that matter most to our communities.”

To report crime call police on 0161-872 5050 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111. More details from www.gmp.police.uk