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Get the latest information broadcast daily on the Vibe 1 Crimeline, broadcast every weekday on Vibe 1's Mid Morning Show.

 

TWO BURGLARIES - MILFORD AREA OF STAFFORD

Staffordshire Police have received two separate reports of burglaries in the Milford area.

The first occurred at approx 8pm on Thursday 19 Decemeber 2024 at a property on Main Road, Milford. 

Two suspects dressed in dark clothing have been seen at this address, they have been disturbed and made off across fields. Police ref 0711/19thDec.

The second incident which may be linked has occurred between the hours of 5 - 10pm also on Thursday 19 December at a property on Brocton Road, Milford. Police ref 0791/19thDec.

If you have seen anything suspicious or have CCTV footage that may be evidential please call 101 and quote either of the above references.

(20 Dec 2024)

 

Warning after elderly targeted by thieves in hospital car parks

Staffordshire Police are urging the public to be vigilant after they received two reports on Tuesday 17 December of elderly people being targeted by thieves as they attempted to pay for parking at two hospitals in Staffordshire.

Police were first called at 3.15pm to County Hospital in Stafford after a man was approached by another man while he was looking to pay for his parking.

The victim, a man in his 70s, said he saw that the ticket machine at the car park was being worked on by legitimate workmen when he was approached by an unknown man wearing a mask, holding a card reader. The suspect told the victim he had to pay for parking via this card machine. The victim handed over a card, which didn’t appear to work, then handed over two others for the machine, which the offender then handed back to him.

The suspect then made off in a nearby vehicle. He is described as black, tall and wearing a black face covering. He drove off in a large, black BMW.

Police think that the cards may have been cloned by the suspect’s device and are urging anyone who saw what happened or who may have relevant dashcam footage to get in touch. Anyone who witnessed this should contact on 101 quoting incident number 432 of 17 December.

The second incident took place at Royal Stoke University Hospital at 3.30pm.

The victim, a man in his 80s, was approached at the car park payment machine by a man in a yellow high-vis jacket and a blue baseball cap. The offender is described as Asian, around 6ft in height and of a medium build.

The suspect told the victim there was a new parking system in operation and that he would show him how to use it. The victim handed over his card to the man and then entered his pin into the machine, thinking the suspect had put the card into the machine for him, when he had in fact pocketed it.

When the card wasn’t returned, the suspect asked if the victim had another card and did the same thing again, this time taking a credit card. The suspect then said he would go and get some help, but never returned.

Later the same day, the debit card was recorded as being used in the Newcastle area, with just over £1,000 taken.

Thankfully, the bank has since sent the money stolen back to the victim and two other attempts to use the credit card were unsuccessful.  Anyone who saw what happened or who may have relevant dashcam footage of this incident is asked to contact on 101 quoting incident number 450 of 17 December.

Police are working with both hospitals to gather CCTV and other evidence and are reminding the public on how best to keep themselves safe from personal theft.

• It’s important you never hand over your bank or credit cards to someone you don’t know, even if they look credible, as thieves will take any opportunity to steal your property. All employees of the hospital will carry identification. If in doubt, please ask to see it, they won't mind.
• Remember to never leave your personal property on display and if using cards out-and-about, make sure you replace them quickly into a sealed purse, wallet or bag.
• Do not let yourself be distracted by anyone when your making payments or shopping and always pay attention to your surroundings.

For more personal safety advice, visit: Personal safety: how to stay safe | Staffordshire Police

(18 Dec 2024)

 

 

** SCAM ALERT **

Police have received alarming reports of DISTRACTION THEFTS.

A man has been targeting the elderly whilst they are withdrawing cash from the ATM cash points.

He taps them on the shoulder distracts them and removes their bank card from the machine.

Please alert your family members and neighbours to keep them vigilant.

(17 Dec 2024)
 

 

More than 40 arrests and 650 roadside tests during ongoing drink and drug driving operation

Staffordshire Police have arrested more than 40 people and carried out more than 650 roadside drug and drink driving tests as part of ongoing efforts to target illegal drivers in Staffordshire.

On 1 December, they launched a month-long intensification effort called Operation Limit.

Forces across the UK have been carrying out the enforcement since 2022 following statistics that revealed 467 collisions were caused by drink or drug driving in December that year. A total of 422 collisions were caused by drink or driving the following year (2023).

So far, officers from the road crime team (RCT) have been busy carrying out enforcement in the county:

• A total of 667 roadside drink and drug driving tests have been carried out
• 21 of these people were arrested for providing a positive roadside breath test
• 22 people have been arrested on suspicion of drug driving offences
• Two people have been arrested for failing to provide
• One person was arrested for failing a roadside impairment test

Since the RCT launched on 1 October, they have worked proactively to arrest more than 125 people suspected of driving offences, seized more than 270 vehicles and seized £1.1million-worth of criminal assets.

Inspector Chris Moss, from the RCT, said: “Drink and drug driving is one of the four main factors of serious injury and fatal collisions. We want to make it clear that those who think they can get behind the wheel under the influence will be targeted robustly in Staffordshire.”

Read more about Op Limit here: Road crime team intensifying efforts to stop drink and drug drivers in crackdown operation | Staffordshire Police

(16 Dec 2024)

Vehicle theft in Barlaston - appeal for information.

At 2:45am on Friday 6th December, police were called to Beechcroft, Barlaston after a report of a vehicle being broken into.

Officers attending the scene have detained three suspects, two males and a female and subsequently arrested them for theft from a motor vehicle. 

The three detained have all been bailed with conditions,  pending the result of further enquiries.

If you have any information that may assist with enquiries, then please contact  - megan.rogers@staffordshire.police.uk quoting reference number 42 of 6th December 2024
(16 Dec 2024)

 

ATTEMPTED SHED BURGLARY

Stafford Police have received a report of an attempted shed burglary.

The incident has happened in the Deepdale area of Wildwood between 9pm on Tuesday 10 December and 8am Wednesday11 December 2024.

If you have seen anything suspicious or have CCTV or a video doorbell that may have captured anything, please contact via 101 and quote ref 0191.

(11 Dec 2024)

 

POSSIBLE ROGUE TRADERS

Stafford Police have received a report of possible rogue traders in the Baswich area of Stafford. 

The incident occurred on Tuesday (Dec 10) at around 9:30am in the Danta Way area.

Two people have been knocking on doors asking residents if they have any condensation as they were in the area doing repairs . 

No leaflets have been dropped.

Vehicle used was a 24 plate VWGolf. 

Please do not engage with people selling goods or services door to door, use reputable companies or recommendations .

Always ensure your doors are locked even when you are in your property.

(10 Dec 2024)

 

How to protect yourself against parcel delivery scams

Parcel delivery scams are messages that pretend to come from delivery companies. 

Texts try to encourage people to pay a small fee using a link that is used to steal personal details.

This type of scam can crop up more at Christmas, when you might have more parcels being delivered than usual. 

Never click on a link received via a text about a delivery, this could be a scam.

Stop and think, you shouldn’t have to pay a fee for a missed delivery. If you’re unsure and you think you have a package arriving, remain vigilant and check delivery notifications very carefully to ensure they are genuine.

Check what you’ve ordered online and track your parcel through the websites of legitimate delivery companies. 

Examples of parcel delivery scams

There are lots of ways a parcel delivery scam can work, for example, you may receive a message claiming that:

• A small fee has to be paid to get your package – it may try to scare you by stating your package will be sent back or to a depot if you don’t pay.
• A package you’ve sent will be returned, as the address was incorrect. You’ll be asked to enter your personal and payment details.
• A company tried to deliver a package, but you were out. Often this scam will include a link to schedule redelivery.

A parcel isn’t going to be delivered unless you download an app. These apps can contain spyware to capture your personal details when you next use them.

Royal Mail will never use text or email to collect fees

If your message is from Royal Mail and it’s asking you to pay a fee, you can be sure it’s a scam. Royal Mail will never ask you to pay fees in this way. 

(10 Dec 2024)

 

DOORSTEP THEFTS OF PARCELS

Christmas is a busy time for parcel deliveries …. and parcel thefts. 

Here are some things to do to try and reduce the risk of parcel theft.

Track your parcel.

If possible fit a video style doorbell ensuring the battery is fully charged at all times 

If you are not going to be in either arrange for your parcel to go to a neighbour, be put in a safe place nominated by yourself or use an off site locker service, these are available at numerous locations such as garages, supermarkets and shops. 

(7 DEC 2024)

 

LOAN SHARKS

Knowing the signs can help protect your loved ones.

Loan sharks often operate without proper paperwork and use threats to control their victims.

Let’s stay vigilant this festive season. If you think you or someone you know is involved with a loan shark contact Stop Loan Sharks England on 0300 5552222.

(5 Dec 2024)

 

Staffordshire Smallholders Association

Have you heard of Staffordshire Smallholders Association ? 

A group interested in animals, horticulture, the countryside and rural activities. 

The Association is open to all - whether you have several acres of land or just a window box.

For more information  - Staffordshire Smallholders' Association | Penkridge, Staffs | Welcome

(4 Dec 2024)

 

Stafford Police are appealing for information after a sheep was killed and then stolen in Haughton, near Stafford.

The sheep was in a field on Dale Lane when it happened between Tuesday (26 November) and Thursday (28 November).

Anyone with information should contact lisa.powell@staffordshire.police.uk, quoting reference number 276 of the 30 November.

(4 Dec 2024)

 

Download The Police Crime Prevention Handbook

This handbook is not an exhaustive guide to home security and crime prevention, but it does cover a broad range of subjects and contains up-to-date crime prevention advice.

Click the link below to download the handbook.

https://www.securedbydesign.com/guidance/crime-prevention-advice/the-police-crime-prevention-handbook

(2 Dec 2024)

Shopping and paying safely online this Xmas

Ready to bag an online bargain? Follow these top tips to avoid scams -

•  Research sellers, check they're legitimate.
•  Use a credit card or secure payment platform.
•  Only provide enough details to complete your purchase.

Find out more: Shopping and paying safely online - NCSC.GOV.UK

(1 Dec 2024)

 

Staffordshire Police are appealing for information after a swan was struck and killed by a vehicle in Barlaston.

It happened at around 2pm, on Flaxman Close, on Sunday (24 November).

Witnesses are urged to get in touch with any information they have, including CCTV or dashcam footage, of the area at the time.

Please contact lisa.powell@staffordshire.police.uk, call 101, or use Live Chat facility, quoting reference number 228 of 28 November here, Staffordshire Police

To report anonymously, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(29 Nov 2024)

 

 

Why you should report phishing email scams

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is a UK government organisation that has the power to investigate and take down scam email addresses and websites.

Reporting a scam is free and only takes a minute. By reporting phishing attempts, you can:

• reduce the amount of scam communications you receive
• make yourself a harder target for scammers
• protect others from cyber crime online

As of October 2024 the number of reports received stands at more than:

• 36m reported scams
• 200,000 scams being removed across 363,864 URL's

Report an email you think is a scam

If you have received an email which you’re not quite sure about, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk

Forward on as many suspicious emails as you like.

Send on any emails that feel suspicious, even if you're not certain they're a scam - they will check.
(27 Nov 2024)

 

Amazon have published tips to protect yourself from impersonation scams

Scammers posing as various organisations like Amazon may send you calls, texts, and emails with various tactics to try to deceive you to provide personal information or sign-in credentials.
 

• What to watch out for?
  • Scammers may tell you there is a fraud investigation and you must “verify” your account or claim there is an unauthorised or fraudulent activity on your Amazon account.
  
  How can you avoid being scammed?
  • Amazon will never ask you to share your password, account sign-in One-Time Password (OTP), or verify sensitive personal information over the phone.
  • Visit the Message Centre on Amazon.co.uk or on our app to review authentic emails from Amazon.
  • Go directly to our website, and go to Your Account to make changes to your billing and account information.
  • Customer Service is available 24/7 to help with any questions you may have.
  
  Keep others safe
  If you receive communication — a call, text, or email — that you think may not be from Amazon, please report it to them at amazon.co.uk/reportascam.

Ahead of Black Friday, Amazon UK is supporting the efforts of the Stop! Think Fraud campaign to help protect you from scams. 2-step verification (2SV) gives your Amazon account an extra level of protection which means that even if a criminal knows your password, they still won’t be able to access it. Consider setting up 2-step verification when available to your online accounts to help prevent unauthorised account access. You can set up 2-step verification at amazon.co.uk/2SV.

For more information on how to stay safe online, visit Security & Privacy on the Amazon Customer Service page.

(27 Nov 2024)

 

How to report a text message you think is a scam

You may of received a text message from a number you don't recognise and thought something doesn't look right. Scammers send messages that trick people into sending money or providing personal information.

One of the most alarming and distressing scam text messages leads you to believe that a family member is in trouble and needs immediate financial help. The sender tries to convince you that sending money is necessary to prevent some kind of an emergency. You could also receive a message saying something like, "Hello dad this is my new number", or "Hi I've smashed my phone and using a friends"

Be cautious and contact the family member directly before proceeding.

Most phone providers are part of a scheme that allows customers to report suspicious text messages for free by forwarding it to 7726. If you forward a text to 7726, your provider can investigate the origin of the text and arrange to block or ban the sender, if it’s found to be malicious. 

For i-phone or i-pad, here's how to forward a text message,

1. Take a note of the number that sent you the message.
2. Press and hold on the message bubble.
3. Tap More.
4. Select the message or messages you want to forward.
5. Tap the arrow on the bottom right of your screen.
6. Input 7726 and send.

Android, How to forward a text message,

1. Take a note of the number that sent you the message.
2. Enter the conversation then press and hold on the message bubble.
3. Tap on the three vertical dots on the top right of your screen.
4. Tap Forward.
5. Input 7726 and send.

If 7726 doesn’t work, you can find out how to report a text message by contacting your phone provider.

(25 Nov 2024)

 

UPDATE - Winter Fuel Payment "Phishing" Scam - BE CAREFUL!

Police have been made aware of criminal activity using both text messages and emails to try and steal bank details by playing on older people's concerns about the Winter Fuel Payment.

What is “Phishing”?

Phishing is a cybercrime in which a target or targets are contacted by email, telephone or text message by someone posing as a legitimate institution to lure individuals into providing sensitive data such as personally identifiable information, banking and credit card details, and passwords.

The information is then used to access important accounts and can result in identity theft and financial loss.

Clicking unknown links puts your information at risk - don't let the cyber-criminals get your information.

An example of a Winter Fuel phishing scam text message might say something like:

• "Winter Heating Subsidy Office Benefit Payment Notice: As the weather slowly turns colder recently, we will begin to issue winter heating subsidies to reduce your heating costs"
• "Winter is coming, and we will continue to issue winter heating subsidies to help you survive this cold winter smoothly"
• The text message will often be urgent and pressure the recipient to act quickly. The text message will include a link that takes the recipient to a phishing site that looks like an official Gov.uk webpage. The site will ask for personal information and payment details.
• The message may appear to of come from UK Government (but is a scam)

For more information please click on the link for ‘Age UK ‘ which contains some useful advice on how to recognise this type of text and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim  - Age UK

(24 Nov 2024)

 

 

Police will be holding a Community Surgery in Eccleshall as part of ASB Awareness Week 2024, which runs from the 18th November until the 24th November, and aims to encourage communities to take a stand against ASB and highlight the actions that can be taken by those experiencing it.

Antisocial behaviour is defined as 'behaviour by a person which causes, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to persons not of the same household as the person’  - for more information -  https://orlo.uk/zC58f

As part of the event, representatives from the following organisations will be present with local officers –

Harmony ASB support Services - https://orlo.uk/6CpwH

A representative from the office of Local MP for Stafford, Eccleshall, and the villages - Leigh Ingham  - https://orlo.uk/yEw7F

Stafford Borough Council - https://orlo.uk/uloDj

Eccleshall Parish Council  - https://orlo.uk/YZMzJ

Venue: Eccleshall Co-op, Stafford Street, Eccleshall ST21 6BH

Friday 22nd November 2024.  4pm-6pm

If you experience Anti-Social Behaviour and need to contact, then you can call 101, or make an online report via the website here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

In an emergency please dial 999

(20 Nov 2024)

 

Effort to tackle ASB in Stafford bolstered by community wardens

It’s been six months since community wardens and diversionary workers began patrolling town centres and residential areas across Staffordshire as part of an initiative to tackle anti-social behaviour.

The scheme, led by Commissioner Ben Adams and funded by the government, has seen the wardens deliver over 11,000 hours of extra support in hotspot areas.

These areas include:

 Hanley & Etruria 

 Burton-on-Trent

 Fenton

 Stafford

 Newcastle-under-Lyme

 Cannock

Commissioner Ben Adams and Deputy Commissioner Dave Evans have been to visit the wardens and have seen the difference they have made to communities.

To read more about the initiative, visit: Effort to tackle ASB in town centres and residential areas bolstered by community wardens - Staffordshire Commissioner

(18 Nov 2024)

 

 

Frosty morning warning, don’t make your car cosy for criminals

With the weather forecast set to turn colder over the coming week, please follow the below crime prevention advice:

Thieves are opportunists, looking for an easy way to steal items of value from an unlocked or unattended vehicle. This could be cash left on display, a sat nav from the glovebox, a mobile phone from the dashboard or perhaps tools kept overnight in a work van.

Facts:

- Every year, vehicles are stolen from driveways and outside homes when owners leave them to warm up with the key in the ignition.

- Car thieves watch the weather forecast too and will be out early in the morning on the lookout for vehicles left unattended.

- High value vehicles are often targeted in this way as their advanced security technology makes them difficult to steal unless they already have the engine running and the key in the ignition.

- Your insurance may not pay out if you are in any way deemed responsible for the theft.

Crime Prevention Advice:

- Stay with your vehicle and if you’re in a rush, use de-icing spray and a scraper to speed up the process.

- Sit inside your vehicle while the heater de-mists the windscreen.

(17 Nov 2024)

 

 

PCSOs from Stafford neighbourhood team will be out and about in the mobile police station visiting different location throughout Stafford, Gnosall and Stone this week. If you have any issues you want to make police aware of please come down.

Today, Wednesday  13 November, the team will be at    
3:30 - 5:30pm Rowley Park, Stafford         
7 - 9 pm Burton Square, Stafford

(13 Nov 2024)

 

STAFFORD - MISSING BARN OWL

Police are appealing for information after two young barn owls have been reported as missing from a property in the south end of Stafford, just off the A449 area.

The pair of birds went missing on the 8th November, between 4;30pm and midnight, one has since been located in the Silkmore area of Stafford.

It has not yet been confirmed if the other bird has been stolen, however police are appealing for information to help locate the outstanding bird (as pictured), or if there have been any sightings locally, please contact on 101, or via the website here - Contact - quoting reference number 239 of 9th November.

(11 Dec 2024)

 

SUSPICIOUS INCIDENT - PORLOCK AVENUE, STAFFORD.

Police have received a report of a suspicious man on the driveway of a property on Porlock Avenue, near to Leasowes Primary School. The suspect was trying the door handle of a vehicle parked on the driveway of the property. 

The suspect is described as wearing a dark coloured hooded top .

This incident has happened between 4:45 - 5:00am  on Thursday 7 November 2024.

If you live in the area and have a Ring style doorbell or CCTV could you please check your footage for anything suspicious .

Call 101 and quote ref 0545/07 Nov, if you have any video footage which could help with enquiries.

(8 Nov 2024)

 

Officers from the new specialist 24-hour roads policing unit have arrested more than 70 people and recovered 19 stolen vehicles in their first month of action.

The dedicated Road Crime Team (RCT) was launched on 1 October.

Since then, working with partners, including trading standards and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), the team has:

·  Arrested 73 people

·  Seized £857,767-worth  of assets

·  Recovered 19 stolen cars

·  Issued 486 traffic offence reports (TORs)

·  Stopped 731 drivers

·  Carried out 205 drink and drug-driving roadside tests

·  Seized 159 vehicles

The new team’s commitment to enforce and promote road safety, as well as action intelligence to disrupt organised crime groups operating in our county, has been evident from day one and continues at pace.

Eight days after they hit the road officers arrested a woman after finding an estimated £250,000-worth of class A drugs inside a car on the M6.

The vehicle was stopped at a service station in Norton Canes, leading to the discovery of around nine kilograms of drugs.

On Tuesday 29 October, the team stopped a silver Audi A5 on the A500 at Audley and Alsager.

Several large bags of cannabis, weighing around 20kg in total and worth in the region of £100,000, were recovered from the boot.

The driver made off and police seized the car to examine it forensically, as part of continuing enquiries.

More recently, on Friday 1st November, officers stopped a HGV on the M6 following several calls to their control room from worried members of the public.

The driver was three times over the drink-drive limit and appeared in court the next day.

Chief Inspector Scott McGrath, who leads the road crime team, said: “This is a brilliant start for the team and we look forward to continuing to tackle criminality head on and working with a range of partners to make our roads safer.

“In 2023, 45 people sadly lost their lives on roads across our county. Each one of these deaths could have been avoided. This is why the new team is so committed to working proactively to enforce and promote road safety.

(8 Nov 2024)
 

 

 STREETSAFE - Is there an area where you don't feel safe? 

The StreetSafe link below allows you to report locations anonymously where you feel uncomfortable. 

This will help police identify places that need improving and make the streets safer for all. 

To find out more and to report here, StreetSafe | Staffordshire Police

 Please note: StreetSafe is not for reporting crimes. If there is a threat to life always dial 999. If non-urgent please report online or dial 101

(6 Nov 2024)

 

Bonfire Night - Fireworks and the law.

As bonfire night approaches, the police are encouraging people to enjoy fireworks safely, whether at an organised display or in their back garden. Here you’ll find out the law around using fireworks as well as how to stay safe, and report those using fireworks in a dangerous or threatening way. 

Fireworks and the law

What time can fireworks be used?

Fireworks can be used in the UK any time from 7am to 11pm.

Exceptions are:

• Bonfire night: 7am to midnight
• New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year: 7am to 1am the following day

Categories of fireworks

• category one: ‘Throwdown fireworks’ including firecrackers, bangers and party poppers
• categories two and three: ‘Adult fireworks’ available in shops
• category four: Professional display fireworks available from specialist suppliers

Who can use fireworks?

According to The Fireworks Regulations 2004 and The Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015:

• anyone over 18 can buy, carry or use category one, two and three fireworks
• anyone over 16 can only buy, carry or use category one fireworks
• anyone over 12 can buy Christmas crackers
• only licensed professionals can buy, carry and use category 4 fireworks
• unless part of an organised event by licensed professionals, fireworks cannot be used on the street or in a public place
• it’s an offence to throw or set off any firework (including sparklers and category 1 fireworks) in or into any highway, street, thoroughfare or public space

What is the impact of firework misuse?

Used irresponsibly, fireworks can cause damage to property and do significant harm to people and animals. Not only is there a danger from fireworks exploding, they can also pose a serious fire risk as well.

This is why members of the public may only use fireworks on private property, such as their back gardens, and only licensed professionals can use them in public places.

What you can do

If a local retailer is selling adult fireworks to people under 18, please report it to your local Trading Standards.

If children are setting off fireworks in your area, their first advice is to ask them politely to stop. It’s possible they’re unaware that they are breaking the law. If you know their parents, perhaps ask them to intervene. 

If you’re having an ongoing problem with people setting off fireworks, please Report antisocial behaviour here

(4 Nov 2024)

 

CYCLING SAFETY

Advice for cyclists  

Safe and responsible cycling involves thinking about and doing several things

   Making good and frequent observations 

• Make sure you are aware of who else is around you, and how far away they are. 

• Be aware of potential hazards. 

  Choose the most suitable riding position for each point in your journey 

• You should keep at least 0.5 metres (just over 1.5 feet) away from the kerb edge (and further where it is safer) when riding on busy roads with vehicles moving faster than you. 

• You may ride in the centre of your lane, known as the ‘primary position’, on quiet roads, in slower-moving traffic and at the approach to junctions or road narrowing 

• If you are riding with others, you may ride 2 abreast, particularly in larger groups or when accompanying children or less experienced riders.  

• At junctions with no separate cyclist facilities, you should position yourself as if you were driving a motor vehicle: Position yourself in the centre of your chosen lane, where you feel able to do this safely, to make yourself as visible as possible and to avoid being overtaken. 

• People cycling are asked to be aware of people driving behind them and allow them to overtake (for example, by moving into single file or stopping) when it’s safe to do so. 

• Take care when passing parked vehicles, leaving enough room (a door’s width or 1 metre) to avoid being hit if a car door is opened, and watch out for pedestrians stepping into your path.

 

    Be prepared  

• Always use lights after dark or when visibility is poor.  

• Light-coloured or fluorescent clothing can help other road users to see you in daylight and poor light, while reflective clothing and/or accessories (belt, arm or ankle bands) can increase your visibility in the dark. 

• You should avoid clothes that may get tangled in the chain, or in a wheel or may obscure your lights when you are cycling. 

• Wear a correctly fitted cycle helmet that is securely fastened and conforms to current regulations 

• Your local council and other popular online apps can help you plan your journey by providing maps showing dedicated paths and routes.

• You should consider improving your cycling through accessing cycle training opportunities in your area such as council-funded or private training with a qualified cycling instructor. 

(1 Nov 2024)

 

Police are appealing for information after the theft of a vehicle from Weavers Walk, Swynnerton at approximately 2.43am Wednesday 30 October 2024

The vehicle, a Grey ’68 plate BMW has been stolen from the driveway of a residential property.

Police are asking residents/business owners in the village of Swynnerton to assist with enquiries if possible by getting in touch if you have any CCTV, Doorbell or Dashcam footage that shows any suspicious activity, outside or around their property or in the street immediately outside, just before the time of the theft or during the hour before.

If you have any information that may assist, please email -

 lisa.powell@staffordshire.police.uk quoting reference number 51 of 30 October 2024

(31 Oct 2024)

 

Beware: Winter Fuel Payment "Phishing" Scam

Police have been made aware of the start of criminal activity using both text messages and emails to try and steal bank details by playing on older people's concerns about the Winter Fuel Payment.

What is “Phishing”?

Phishing is a cybercrime in which a target or targets are contacted by email, telephone or text message by someone posing as a legitimate institution to lure individuals into providing sensitive data such as personally identifiable information, banking and credit card details, and passwords.

The information is then used to access important accounts and can result in identity theft and financial loss.

Clicking unknown links puts your information at risk - don't let the cyber-criminals get your information.

For more information please click on the link for ‘Age UK ‘ which contains some useful advice on how to recognise this type of text and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim  - Age UK

(31 Oct 2024)

 

 

Halloween safety tips

Trick or treating advice

We want you to enjoy Halloween, but remember, not everyone wants to take part!

Here's a few things to remember when you're out this Halloween.

• If you’re going trick or treating, make sure you go with an adult and your parent or carer knows where you’re going and when to expect you back.
• Don’t knock if there’s a sign saying ‘No trick or treat here.’
• Be careful not to frighten elderly or vulnerable people.
• Don’t go trick or treating alone - stay with your group.
• Only visit areas where there are streetlights.
• Don’t throw eggs and flour.
• Be careful crossing roads in the dark.

Have a great time, stay safe and look out for each other. If you or someone you know is in danger call 999.

Residents Advice

• If you do not want trick or treaters download the ‘No Trick or Treat’ sign and place this in your window.
• If you witness anti-social behaviour, call 101. If you witness a crime in progress, call 999
• You can also make a report via LiveChat: Home | Staffordshire Police
• Don’t open the door if you don’t want trick or treaters

(29 Oct 2024)

 

Police  encouraging people to stay vigilant of phone scams after recent reports of fraudsters using the technique to find out personal information, known as vishing.

Fraudsters are using specialist software to make incoming phone calls appears to be genuine businesses, banks and organisations.

Here is some advice on how to stay safe and prevent being scammed over the phone:

Scammers will try to put you under pressure and make things seem urgent or even dangerous to convince you to act. Don't panic, take a minute and try to assess the situation calmly before doing anything

Never disclose your personal or financial details over the phone. If you’re unsure who is asking for them, contact the organisation in question through an official channel

Avoid logging into any accounts using public WiFi or on a public device

Make sure your home WiFi is secure and never let anyone gain remote access to your phone or computer

A bank will never ask you to set up a call divert to anyone else's phone, if someone asks you to do this, it's not genuine.

If you believe you have been targeted by a scammer, hang up the phone and use a different phone. If you don’t have access to another phone line, we’d advise waiting for a short period of time before calling anyone else.

Staffordshire Police recommend signing up to the Telephone Preference Service to reduce unwanted sales calls. You can register for free on 0345 070 0707 or visit https://orlo.uk/25FJ1

If you receive a call claiming to be from the bank, you can all 159 and be transferred to the bank’s customer services team. Check that your bank is included in the scheme.

If you think you or someone you know has been defrauded, you can report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.

To read more about the different types of tactics used by fraudsters and what you can do to stop them, visit: https://orlo.uk/VDDNh

(28 Oct 2024)

 

 

A man who took a wallet from a car and tried several vehicle door handles in Stafford has been convicted in court.

Tony Fellows, 44, of Stafford, appeared at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Monday 14 October and pleaded guilty to nine offences, including one count of theft from a vehicle, two counts of attempted burglary and six counts of vehicle interference.

Local officers arrested Fellows near Hylton Road on Saturday 12 October following a number of reports of a man trying to get into cars in the area, including vehicles on Hurst Grove, Hylton Road, Porchester Way and Upnor Way.

He tried to run away from officers but was quickly caught. He had a stolen wallet on him that he’d taken from a car in the area.

Police traced the victim and returned the wallet to him, who was unaware it had been taken at the time until he checked CCTV and saw Fellows searching through the car on 12 October.

Read more here: https://orlo.uk/UDt2K
(24 Oct 2024)

 

Last Wednesday (Oct 16), the police recovered a vehicle that was involved in a road traffic collision on Redgrave Drive, Stafford, shortly after 7pm. The  driver, in company with a passenger, are believed to have made off from the vehicle. The car was found abandoned on Mansell Close, Castlefields, Stafford.

If you have any information or can provide CCTV or dashcam footage of the incident, please contact 101 and quote incident number 634 of the 16th October. You can also contact through the online portal https://orlo.uk/NrYtU

 

 

Halloween Posters

With Halloween is just around the corner, this can be a time of great fun for some and a very scary time for others. 

Below is a poster you can print out and place in your door on Halloween if you do not wish people to visit and a simple take care and be aware leaflet, that can be shared to help every one have a safe and happy HALLOWEEN.

1. trick or treat door.pdf

2. trick or treat info.pdf

(16 Oct 2023)

 

Fire work information

Staffordshire police are already experiencing a number of calls in the regarding Fireworks. With several weeks until Bonfire night attached are some information leaflets.  

UK law states :-

 You cannot buy ‘adult’ fireworks if you’re under 18, and it’s against the law for anyone to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions this dose not include things like party poppers.

The law says you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.

You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for:

• Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight
• New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am

Check with your council to find out about any local rules for setting off fireworks.

Get information about firework safety from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Health and Safety Executive.

Buying fireworks

You can only buy fireworks (including sparklers) from registered sellers for private use on these dates:

• 15 October to 10 November
• 26 to 31 December
• 3 days before Diwali and Chinese New Year

At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops.

Please take time to read the attachments below regarding fireworks, to stay safe and be mindful of the impact of fireworks has on others, including pets and wildlife -

1. Fireworks.pdf

2. fireworks A3.pdf

3. sparklers a3.pdf

(16 Oct 2024)

 

 

Police have charged a man with 10 offences, after a series of reports were made to Police of a suspicious male, trying car doors and attempting to enter peoples property, on the Burleyfields housing estate in Stafford.

In the early hours of Saturday 12th October, Tony Fellows, aged 44 from the Stafford area was located by officers, attempting to hide behind a vehicle on Pickering Croft, Castlefields, Stafford. Fellows was pursued by officers after trying to escape but was found a short time later and arrested at the scene.

Fellows was charged with 2 counts of attempt burglary, 2 counts of attempted theft from motor vehicle and 6 counts of vehicle interference. 

To report crime, If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Call 101 for less urgent matters, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

Alternatively you can call the Independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111

(14 Oct 2024)

 

 

Police are appealing for information after a burglary in the Walton area of Eccleshall on Tuesday 8th October 2024.
A small white ’14 plate van , has driven onto the premises between 10 and 11am and occupants from the van, removed and stole various power tools from a shed within the grounds.

If you have witnessed any suspicious activity in or around the Stafford Road, Walton, Eccleshall area, between the stated times or were subject to a visit from a vehicle of a similar description then please email lisa.powell@staffordshire.police.uk quoting reference number 550 of the 8th October 2024

If you wish to pass information anonymously please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

(10 Oct 2024)

 

VEHICLE SECURITY INFORMATION

Car crime makes up a significant number of all recorded crimes across the United Kingdom. Car crime can be distressing and annoying as it can cause a great deal of inconvenience, as you could be without a car for a long period of time.

This could be due to waiting for the garage to make repairs or for your insurer to pay. The majority of vehicle crime occurs from criminals seeing opportunities and taking them. But you can easily outsmart the car thief by following the car security advice within this article.

Car Security Advice to Prevent Car Crime Car crime makes up a significant number of all recorded crimes across the United Kingdom. Car crime can be distressing and annoying as it can cause a great deal of inconvenience, as you could be without a car for a long period of time. This could be due to waiting for the garage to make repairs or for your insurer to pay. The majority of vehicle crime occurs from criminals seeing opportunities and taking them. But you can easily outsmart the car thief by following the car security advice within this article. Car Security Advice to Prevent Car Crime Top tips for Car Security: Don't Leave Valuables on Show It might sound obvious but leaving items on show is an invitation to the opportunist criminal - mobile phones, satnavs and mounts, power leads, money, wallets, handbags, sunglasses, coats, jackets and bags should always be removed from the vehicle or hidden well out of sight Keys Keys and ignition fobs should be kept safe and out of sight and reach. A common way to steal a car is to take the keys or ignition fob, so never leave them in the vehicle, even if it is unattended for a moment.  Lock Doors & Close Windows! Always lock and close the windows of your vehicle when you leave it unattended - be this on the drive, the petrol station forecourt, when de-icing your vehicle in the winter or when getting a ticket to park. An unlocked vehicle is the easiest to steal or steal from. Fit an Alarm If your vehicle is not fitted with a manufacturers’ fitted alarm and/or immobiliser, consider installing an approved system.  Install a Tracker Tracker systems can increase the recovery of your car if it is stolen. Many systems activate once the car is stolen and track the car via GPS and other systems. SBD have several members which specialise in this area and can advise you on the best system and fitting of the product for your vehicle type Use Physical Security Physical security products such as a steering wheel lock or a lock that fits over the gear lever still act as a good deterrent Secure your Number Plates Fit theft-resistant number plate fittings. Stolen number plates are commonly used to hide the identity of stolen vehicles. Use one-way clutch head screws to secure number plates Parking your car at home Consider fitting a garage alarm. If you have a house alarm system, consider connecting it to the garage.  Another option is to park your car on a drive. If your drive has gates, consider closing them at night or when you are not using your vehicle If you don’t have gates, a vehicle bollard will provide an extra visible deterrent. One area that is often overlooked is the security of the garage doors. Unfortunately, many older garage doors are very easy to break-into so you should consider replacing them. Park under street lights If you are parking your car on the street overnight, consider parking it under or near a street light.  (8 Oct 2024)   Police are asking for your help to find 41 Year old Mouaed (pictured below).

He was last seen in Stafford town centre at around 11:05 am on Sunday 6 October 2024. If you can help with any information, please contact via 101 or Live Chat here,  https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

(7 Oct 2024)

 

Police have arrested 10 people and seized more than £30,000-worth of drugs, cash and weapons in raids on properties linked to suspected drug supply and child exploitation in Stone.

On Thursday 3 October, officers searched nine separate addresses in co-ordinated warrants in the town.

The activity, led by the child exploitation team, is part of an investigation into adults suspected of being involved in child criminal exploitation (CCE) linked to organised crime and county lines drug dealing.

After forcing entry to the addresses, officers seized suspected heroin, MDMA, cocaine and cannabis, more than £10,000 in cash and several weapons, including seven samurai swords, and other items linked to drug supply.

As a result, 10 people have been arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A and class B drugs, human trafficking and forced servitude (both modern day slavery offences).

They are:

A 49-year-old man, a 36-year-old man, a 34-year-old man, a 24-year-old man, a 22-year-old man, two 20-year-old men and 56-year-old woman and two 17-year-old girls, all from the Stone area.

One of these was tracked down by officers from the new Road Crime Team (RCT).

All 10 are currently in police custody.

Read more here, Arrests made in fight to protect children from criminal exploitation

(3 Oct 2024)

 

Deer Awareness Day, Cannock Chase Visitors Centre, Marquis Drive, Cannock WS12 4PW

This Sunday 6th October 2024, The British Deer Society will be attending Marquis Drive Visitor Centre between 10:00am and 3:00pm. See below for further information:

What to do if you hit a deer, or find an injured deer in the road here, Deer on the Chase

(2 Oct 2024)

 

ROGUE TRADERS

Staffordshire Police have received a recent report regarding a rogue trader charging an excessive amount  of money for a very simple task and then pressuring the resident into paying.

Please be advised that Staffordshire Police do not recommend that anyone buys goods or services from anyone going door to door, please use reputable companies or recommendations from friends.

Rogue traders often prey on vulnerable residents. If an elderly or vulnerable family member is having work done at home, take the time to understand the situation fully before any money changes hands.

There's more advice regarding Rouge Traders here, Rogue Traders

To report crime, If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Call 101 for less urgent matters, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

Alternatively you can call the Independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111

(28 Sept 2024)

 

 

A woman has been charged with theft offences in Stafford after £122-worth of goods were taken from a shop.

Catherine Allport, 60, from Bloxwich, Walsall, has been charged with theft from a shop and going equipped for theft.

It comes after police responded to reports of shoplifting at River Island in Stafford at around 4.15pm on Wednesday 11 September.

Allport has been released on bail and will appear at Cannock Magistrates’ Court on 27 September.

To report crime, If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Call 101 for less urgent matters, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

Alternatively you can call the Independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111

(26 Sept 2024)

 

Have your say on local Policing priorities

The Staffordshire Commissioner’s Office is inviting those who live, work or visit Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent to complete a short survey on local Policing priorities over the next 4 years.

Priorities in the draft Police & Crime Plan include:

• An outstanding local Police service
• Supporting victims
• Prevention and protection
• Impactful partnerships

Take five-minutes to #HaveYourSay: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/policeandcrime

(24 Sept 2024)

 

Driving through Cannock Chase - Be Deer Aware

Police are urging motorists to take extra caution whilst travelling on our roads, especially those around Cannock Chase and Norton Canes as we enter the deer rutting season.

The rut which starts late September through to December, will see an increase of deer near to and on our roads as they travel through the forest in search for a mate. This means they can appear suddenly, without warning and often there is more than one.

Follow these tips to help keep you and the deer safe this year;

 When you see warning signs or are travelling through a heavily wooded or forested stretch of road, reduce your speed and stay alert.

 If your headlights are on, use full-beams when you can, but dip them if you see deer as they may freeze.

 More deer may follow the first one you see, so remain vigilant.

 Be prepared to stop suddenly. Try not to suddenly swerve to avoid a deer. Hitting oncoming traffic or another obstacle could be even worse.

 

 If you have to stop, use your hazard warning lights.

 Should you hit a deer, call 999 and ask for the Police.

(23 Sept 2024)

 

Five members of an organised crime group have been jailed for a combined total of 30 years for supplying around £100,000 worth of heroin and crack cocaine across Stafford.

Officers from the towns local policing team conducted an investigation into street level dealing between January 2017 and March 2018. 

Everton Nugent, 49 from Derrington, Stafford was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Orlando Grace 23 from London, Nashwaan Ali 24 ,from Walthamstow, and Gladstone Facey aged 56 from Manchester, all received 6 years imprisonment. Darnell McCollins aged 23 from Beck Square in London, also received 3.5 years in prison.

For full details please visit: https://orlo.uk/HW4DL 

To report crime, If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Call 101 for less urgent matters, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

Alternatively you can call the Independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111

(22 Sept 2024)

 

We've received a message from Stafford Police asking all road users to adhere to any road closures between Baswich Lane and St Thomas Lane, Stafford.  Police have received numerous reports of drivers ignoring road closures and diversions in place around the area. This has led to near misses and minor collisions, when the closure signs of the road are breached. The bridges, between Tilcon Avenue industrial estate and St Thomas Lane (towards the Tixall Road) remain closed for structural work and diversions are in place. 

(21 Sept 2024)

 

Appeal for witnesses

Stafford Police are appealing for anyone that may have witnessed the a Road Traffic Collision on Beaconside, Stafford on Tuesday 17th September to get in touch.

The collision occurred shortly after 7:00am on Beaconside, near to MOD Stafford. 

If you witnessed the collision or have any dash cam footage,  please could you email george.branaghan@staffordshire.police.uk

(18 Sept 2024)

 

Three men have been arrested after being tracked down by police dog Vixen following reports of attempted car theft in Stafford.

In the early hours of Saturday 31 August, a group of three men were seen trying to get inside a white Ford Focus on Poplar Way.

Residents in the area shouted at the group, who were spooked and ended up leaving empty-handed.

Then, at about 1.45am on Tuesday 10 September, police received a similar report that three men were trying to get in different cars on the same street.

They left the scene in a vehicle that was later tracked to near Sidney Avenue.

PD Vixen was brought in the sniff out the suspects, locating three men in the area. One of them tried to run away when being searched but was quickly caught, along with another that tried to hide in a bush.

Three people were arrested:

• A 40-year-old man, of no fixed address, on suspicion of vehicle interference and drink driving
• A 28-year-old man, from Stafford, on suspicion of attempted vehicle theft and drug driving
• An 18-year-old man, from Stafford, on suspicion of vehicle interference

All three remain in custody and will be questioned.

If you’ve got any information that can help with this investigation, please call 101, quoting incident 47 of 10 September, or use Live Chat on the website here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

(12 Sept 2024)

 

Staffordshire Police and Action Fraud are advising people to stay vigilant following a recent scam where financial fraudsters pretend to be police officers over the phone.

Recently, different people have been getting cold calls from fraudsters claiming to be from the Metropolitan Police. They have told callers they have someone in custody with a cloned bank card with the caller’s name on it. They are then telling the victim to collect money from various banks, post office and then sending someone one around to collect the money. The fraudsters claim some of  money withdrawn is fake and the victim is helping to gather evidence to stop it happening the future. The victim is assured the money will be all reimbursed at a later date.

They would like to reiterate that neither police nor bank officials will ever ask you to withdraw money from your account, purchase anything or hand over your personal details or passwords.

If you believe you are being targeted by a scammer hang up the phone and use a different phone line to call Action Fraud or the police, as scammers have a way to stay on the line and will pretend to be the police when you call back.

If you don’t have access to a different phone line, wait for a period of time and try calling a family member or friend first to make sure the scammer is no longer on the line.

Just because someone knows basic details about you like your address or date of birth, it doesn’t mean they are genuine bank or police employees.
Always question suspicious phone calls and report them to Action Fraud or the police.

(10 Sept 2024)

 

ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOUR/CRIMINAL DAMAGE

Staffordshire Police have received several reports of Antisocial behaviour and criminal damage overnight 7-8th September in the Robinswood/Inglemere Drive and Cannock Road area of Stafford. There have been further reports from Dawlish Avenue .

The suspects appear to be the same large group ( approx 10 people ) aged 14 -15years some on bikes and some on foot.

If you have CCTV or a ring style doorbell could you please check your footage to see if you have captured this group so they can be identified. There are criminal aspects to these incidents. Please call 101 and quote 792/7th September. 

(8 Sept 2024)

 

A man has been charged with drug supply offences after heroin and crack cocaine was found during a search in Stafford.

Joseph Stewart, 38, of Doxey, Stafford, has been charged with possession with intent to supply a controlled drug of class A – heroin and crack cocaine, being concerned in the supply of heroin and being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine.

It comes after police found class A drugs after stopping a Range Rover on a car park on Foregate Street at 2pm on Wednesday 4 September.

Stewart was due to appear at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Friday 6 September.

To report crime, If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Call 101 for less urgent matters, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

Alternatively you can call the Independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111

(9 Sept 2024)

 

A suspected drug dealer in Stafford has been arrested after police found heroin and crack cocaine following a proactive search.

It happened at about 2pm on Wednesday 4 September, when officers stopped a Range Rover on a car-park on Foregate Street.

Multiple wraps of class A drugs were found alongside a phone. The vehicle was also seized after checks revealed it had no insurance.

A 38-year-old man, from Stafford, has been arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply crack cocaine and heroin, being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin and drug driving.

He remains in custody for questioning.

To report crime, If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Call 101 for less urgent matters, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

Alternatively you can call the Independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111

(8 Sept 2024)

 

Police are appealing for any witnesses or footage captured of a suspicious incident on Alliance Street, Stafford at around 2:30pm on Friday 30 August.

A woman in her 20s reported being approached by two males in a dark coloured vehicle, possibly a BMW 1 Series, who acted aggressively towards her. Fortunately, she did not suffer any injuries.

Local officers are completing house to house enquiries in the area, but anyone with information about the incident is asked to come forward.

If you witnessed any suspicious behaviour or have CCTV or dashcam footage in the area around this time, please call 101 and quote incident number 423 of 30 August. Alternatively, for guaranteed anonymity, contact Crimestoppers.

(2 Sept 2024)

Is this yours?

A drone device has been found in the Stafford area over the weekend and handed into officers at Stafford Police Station . Any enquiries, including proof of ownership, can be made at Stafford Police Station. 

(2 Sept 2024)

 

Vehicle Thefts

Staffordshire Police have received a report of the theft of two vehicles from an address in Hixon .

The incident occurred between 01:40 - 02:00am on Wednesday 28 August, when two BMW's were stolen from the drive from a property on Meadow Glade, Hixon.

Two suspects were seen on CCTV at the address, both wearing dark clothing, balaclavas and gloves. They had gained entry via patio doors to the rear of the property.

If you have seen or heard anything suspicious in the area, or you have CCTV or a ring style doorbell,  please can you check your footage for the time stated above to see if there is anything evidential.  

Police reference for this incident 0048/28th August.

Please call 101 if you can help with any information, or use Live Chat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(28 Aug 2024)

 

A woman has been arrested after another woman was stabbed in Stafford.

At 11.05pm on Wednesday 21 August, police were called to Sidney Avenue following reports that a woman had been stabbed in the abdomen.

Officers went to the scene alongside paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service.

A woman was taken to hospital. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing at this time.

A 48-year-old woman, from Stafford, has been arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent.

She remains in custody.

Police are keen to speak to anyone with any information that can help with this investigation. Call 101, quoting incident 713 of 21 August, or use Live Chat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(24 Aug 2024)

 

A drug dealer who admitted being involved in the supply of drugs has been handed a suspended sentence.

Jamie Hunt, aged 22, of Winshill, Burton-upon-Trent, was given a two-year prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, at Stafford Crown Court on Friday 16 August, after admitting possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine and possession of criminal property.

The court heard how Hunt, who was believed to be involved in the so-called ‘Snowy’ drug line, was stopped by officers on a towpath in the Doxey area of Stafford at 2pm on 2 May this year.

He was found to have multiple deals of heroin and crack cocaine on him, along with cash and a mobile phone. He was arrested and later pleaded guilty to the offences in court.

The officer in charge of the case, of the force’s Major and Organised Crime department, said: “Hunt was clearly involved in supplying drugs in the Stafford area when he was stopped and searched by officers in the middle of the afternoon in May.

“I am pleased he admitted his offending and hope the circumstances of his arrest show how we work continuously to identify and detain offenders suspected of being involved in the supply of drugs.

“If you are drug dealing, we know who you are and are working to bring you before the courts.”

For more information on their dedicated operation to tackle major and organised crime, including drug supply, visit: https://orlo.uk/PEAWk

(22 Aug 2024)

 

Police are appealing for information after the theft of a quad bike from the Oulton Heath area, between 11pm on Monday 12th August and 07:30am on Tuesday 13th August.

The quad bike, a Green Artic Cat 700 Diesel, has been removed from the premises, and taken across neighbouring farmland onto Old Road, near to the junction of Cross Lane, Oulton Heath. The quad has a missing rear brake light, a damaged front left panel above the wheel arch and the front headlights do not work – this information may assist in identifying the vehicle should you be offered one for sale.

If you witnessed anything suspicious during the times stated, have any information that may help to locate the vehicle, or are able to assist in identifying who may be responsible for the theft, then please mailto:lisa.powell@staffordshire.police.uk quoting reference number 205 of the 13th August 2024

Alternatively you can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(21 Aug 2024)

 

A man has sadly died following a collision between a motorbike and a car in Cannock.

It happened at around 6.30pm on Friday 16 August, on Rugeley Road, near to the Beau Desert Golf Club.

Police attended with paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Despite the efforts of emergency services, the motorcyclist, a man in his 70s, sadly died at the scene.

Specialist officers are supporting his family at this difficult time and we ask that their privacy is respected.

A full and detailed investigation is now under way to establish the cause of the collision.

The driver of the car stayed at the scene and helped with enquiries.

Anyone who witnessed the collision, or those with CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage from the area are asked to get in touch.

Contact by calling 101, quoting incident 633 of 16 August, or message using Live Chat on the  website here,

https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

 

You can also get in touch with collision investigators directly by emailing mailto:ciu@staffordshire.police.uk

 

 

Following on from another incident on the Chase....

Police are again urging motorists to take extra care when driving. On Saturday 17th August the driver of this vehicle decided to attempt an overtake whilst passing through Cannock Chase.

The driver ran out of time and space and subsequently crashed into a grass verge, rolled over a number of times ending up in a ditch - thankfully and unbelievably they have been able to walk away with no injuries.

The risk far outweigh any benefit of this sort of driving. Please drive carefully - especially through Cannock Chase.

(20 Aug 2024)

 

Police have arrested four people in connection with the theft of £20,000 worth of musical equipment in Staffordshire on Sunday (12 August).

Officers were alerted to the burglary, which took place at around 3.30am in Stafford, after the victim reported her car keys had been stolen from a property in Stafford.

The vehicle, which contained a guitar and amplifier worth in the region of £20,000, was stolen from premises. Officers carried out inquiries and the vehicle was spotted making off from a nearby petrol station without the driver making payment.

Police recovered the stolen car, the keys, the guitar, amplifier, microphone and other items. They have been returned to the victim and four people have been arrested.

Read more here: HERE

To report crime, If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Call 101 for less urgent matters, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

Alternatively you can call the Independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111

(16 Aug 2024)

 

A man who took a car at knifepoint in Stafford has been jailed for nine years.

Leroy Simpson, 44 from Birmingham, admitted robbery and aggravated vehicle taking following an incident in February this year.

He used a false name on social media and arranged to view a car in Great Bridgeford that was being sold on Facebook marketplace.

The owner sat in the passenger seat while Simpson took the car for a test drive. He drove into a cul-de-sac and pulled a knife on the victim, who got out and ran away.

As soon as police heard about this incident, officers went to the area to track the car down. The National Police Air Service (NPAS) were overhead, tracking Simpson as he drove at dangerous speeds, often on the wrong side of the road, to get away.

He was followed until he jumped out of the car at Hopwood Services in Birmingham. He tried to run away on foot.

Officers, with the help of NPAS, quickly found him near the woodland and arrested him.

Simpson was sentenced to nine-years at Stafford Crown Court on Monday 5 August. He was also disqualified from driving for eight-years-and-five-months and ordered to take an extended re-test.

Police continuing to target vehicle thieves across Staffordshire using a range of tactics and have already arrested more than 150 suspects as part of the Operation Bormus initiative.

Officers are patrolling hotspot locations, sharing intelligence with neighbouring forces and working proactively to protect people’s belongings and stop the thieves intent on taking vehicles in Staffordshire.

To report crime call 101, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(13 AUG 2024)

 

 

On Friday 9th August, officers from Stafford Borough Policing team attended the Beaconside area after reports of some minor disorder at a nearby address. 

Whilst officers were in attendance and sat inside their patrol vehicle, a man had left an address and smashed the windscreen of the police vehicle, with officers still inside, causing extensive damage. The male then ran off and a number of officers conducted an area search around the Beaconside and Weston Road area.

A short time later, the man returned back to the address and was arrested by officers. As a result of this, an officer was injured during the arrest of the male.

Ellis Morrisey, aged 29 from Stafford who was arrested at the scene, has been remanded to appear before court today (Monday 12th August 2024). Morrisey has been charged with five offences, which include criminal damage and assaults on emergency workers.

To report crime call 101, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(12 AUG 2024)

 

Police are continuing to appeal for help in finding missing 14-year-old Logan, from Stafford.

He was last seen on Thursday (1 August) at a bus stop in Stone around 3pm.

Logan is around 5ft 7ins tall and was last seen wearing black Adidas trainers, straight legged black North Face jogging bottoms, a Black North Face zipper coat, a man bag and a white top underneath his jacket.

He has links to the Stoke-on-Trent area.

Police are asking for anyone with information, or who may know where he might be, to get in touch by calling 101 quoting incident 848 of 1 August, or message via Live Chat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(7 Aug 2024)

*UPDATE*  Missing 14-year-old Logan, from Stafford, has been found.

Thank you for sharing this appeal and for your help

(8 Aug 2024)

 

Oversharing online

Thanks to the internet it’s easy to share about what you’re doing, how you’re feeling, your opinions, likes, dislikes, passions and interests. As well as information and updates about yourself, family and friends, keeping everyone up to date about your life. 

But what if what you share doesn’t have the effect you intended it to because it’s oversharing? Like your home being burgled because you posted your family holiday pics. Or your identity being stolen if a criminal pieces together the personal details in your profile. The attached leaflet below provides tips and advice on making sure you don't overshare online.

Separately, a recent survey also revealed that we're too polite when it comes to scam callers - all the information can be seen here, along with some short animations providing advice on how to handle scam callers:

New nationwide poll reveals Brits as ‘too polite’ when it comes to scammers (getsafeonline.org)

The advice - if you receive a telephone call from someone you're not expecting simply say ‘I’m not interested, thank you' and hang up. 

Some things are best kept to yourself - leaflet

(5 Aug 2024)

 

ATTEMPTED DISTRACTION BURGLARY

Staffordshire Police have received a recent report of an attempted distraction burglary in the Barlaston area.

The suspect had stated to the resident that he needed to check water pipes as there was an issue at the property, he has then searched through the property . 

Here are some tips to deter distraction burglary

• Don’t allow any stranger in your house unless you have arranged an appointment with one of your suppliers and expect someone to be there.

• Call for help if you suspect the visitor.

• Check their IDs and verify them with the company before letting somebody into your home.

• Lock all the doors and windows.

• Hide your valuables.

• Often suspects work in pairs and whilst one is distracting the resident the other will search the property.

• Ensure your back door is locked when answering your front door .

Thank you

(5 Aug 2024) 

 

A man has been charged after a teenage boy suffered an injury to his neck in Stone.

Jamie Coleman, aged 33, from Stone, has been charged with wounding with intent and possession of a knife or sharp pointed article in a public place.

It comes after police were called by West Midlands Ambulance Service to reports of a stabbing at Westbridge Park at about 9.20pm on Friday (2 August).

A teenage boy was found with a neck injury at the scene and taken to hospital.

His injuries were not deemed serious and he was later discharged.

Coleman will appear at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre tomorrow (Monday 5 August).

To report crime call 101, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(4 Aug 2024)

 

Local PCSOs will be taking the mobile police station up to Fancy Walk, Stafford on Thursday 8th August between 6pm and 8pm.

If there are any issues in the area that you would like to discuss, please come down.

(31 July 2024)

 

Detectives have named the woman who died on Newport Road, Stafford.

The victim has been named as 31-year-old Rebecca Simkin, from Stafford.

Specialist officers continue to support Rebecca’s family.

Police were called at 10.25am on Monday 29 July to reports that a woman had died at a property on Newport Road.

A 44-year-old man, from Stafford, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and he remains in custody.

Detectives have been granted extra time to interview the suspect.

Anyone with information is asked to get in touch by calling 101, quoting incident 194 of 29 July or by messaging using Live Chat on the website, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(31 July 2024)

 

 

A man has been charged following burglaries at homes in Meaford and Oulton Heath and the theft of fuel from a business in Stone.

George Benjamin White, 45, from Oulton, has been charged with three counts of burglary and one of making off without payment.

It comes after an investigation into break-ins at properties in Meaford and Oulton Heath, where thousands of pounds-worth of cash and paperwork were stolen, and the theft of fuel from a petrol station in Stone, between Thursday 27 June and Friday 19 July this year.

White appeared at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Friday 26 July and has been bailed ahead of his next appearance at Stafford Crown Court on Tuesday 27 August.

To report crime call 101, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(28 July 2024)

 

 

A man has been charged following reports that a lorry was being driven erratically in Stafford.

Jurijs Pirogovs, 51, from Wolverhampton, has been charged with driving a vehicle dangerously, driving a motor vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a licence, failing to stop after a road accident, using a motor vehicle on a road / public place without third party insurance and assault by beating of an emergency worker.

It comes after police went to the Lammascote Road area of the town, just after 6.30pm, on Monday 22 July, following reports that a lorry had been in collision with two cars.

A short time later, officers from the specialist road policing unit (RPU) located the lorry on Foregate Street. They followed it on to Lichfield Road, where they bought it to a stop safely.

Pirogovs is due to appear at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Wednesday 24 July.

To report crime call 101, or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(24 July 2024)

 

PCSOs have been out in the mobile police station around the Borough speaking to people about the Space scheme that is running this summer.

There are a variety of free activities for 8 to 17 year old running between 29th July and 30th August 2024.

Please visit https://orlo.uk/Q4YYf for further details.

 

 

 

 

 

(23 July 2024)

 

THEFT OF WING MIRRORS

On Saturday 13 July 2024 at around 2:30pm, a tall thin man wearing a white face mask walked onto the drive of a property on Weeping Cross, Stafford.

The man has proceeded to take the backs from both wing mirrors on a vehicle that was parked on the drive to the property, which is close to the junction with Knowle Road.

 He has then made off towards Milford in a vehicle possibly an Audi Q5 or Q7, grey in colour.

If you have seen anything suspicious in the area at this time could you please contact Police on 101 quoting ref:370/13th July. 

(18 July 2024)

 

Police are appealing for information following a disturbance at a pub in Stone.

They were called to Station Road in the town just before 10pm on Sunday (14 July) after a fight broke out in a beer garden. Police were also told a man had a knife.

Officers went to the scene and carried out a search. No knife was found.

West Midlands Ambulance Service treated people at the scene for minor injuries. A woman also went to hospital after suffering a panic attack.

Anyone with information or relevant CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage of the area at the time can call 101, quoting incident 702 of 14 July, or message using Live Chat on their website, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

You can also make an anonymous report by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. To tell what you know, not who you are.

(15 July 2024)

 

 

We are sharing some advice on how to stay safe when it comes to impersonation scams.

An impersonation scam is when criminals pretend to be from companies you know in order to trick you into giving them details like personal or financial information.

For more information and advice, visit: https://orlo.uk/WAQrs

(14 July 2024)

 

MISSING PERSON - STAFFORD

Can you help find PAIGE, from STAFFORD

She is 17 years old and police are concerned for their welfare,

Paige was last seen at around 07.40am on Wednesday 10th July.

She is described as a white British female, medium build, fair skinned with black/brown long hair normally worn in a pony tail.

Paige wears glasses and is believed to be wearing a cream tracksuit and carrying a blue Bench bag.

If you've seen PAIGE or know of her whereabouts, please call on 101 or use LiveChat here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

(12 July 2024)

 

DEER WARNING; Police are again urging motorists to take extra care when driving through or around Cannock Chase after three deer were killed this week after being struck by vehicles in separate incidents. 

Deer can be unpredictable and appear at any time without warning, driving at a slower speed allows you extra time to react and avoid a collision. 

Should you be unfortunate and hit a deer, stop where safe and illuminate your hazard lights. If the deer is in the road dial 999 and ask for the Police, do not attempt to move the deer yourself. 

(12 July 2024)

 

As a result of a Section 34 Dispersal order in place for Stone town centre, local officers have issued a number of young people with ‘Direction to Leave’ notices.

The notices issued require the individuals to remain out of the specified area - Stone Town Centre, including Westbridge Park, for 48 hours, and if they fail to comply they could be arrested.

Police say they will continue to tackle anti-social behaviour and ensure that positive action is taken against those responsible.

Anyone with any concerns can contact Staffordshire Police by reporting online at - https://orlo.uk/AjBId messaging on LiveChat via the website, or by calling 101

In an emergency please ensure you always dial 999

(11 July 2024)

 

Police have released an image of a woman they want to speak to after another woman was assaulted in Stone.

It happened on the High Street at around 12.50am on Saturday 15 June.

The suspect was with a woman and a man at the time of the incident.

The victim, a woman in her 20s, suffered a head injury and a broken nose. She went to hospital for treatment.

Anyone who recognises the woman pictured or may have any information that can help, are asked to get in touch by calling 101, quoting incident 58 of 15 June, or by using Live Chat on their website,  https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(8 July 2024)

 

Officers have recovered this pedal bike, pictured, and are trying to locate an owner. If you recognise the bike please or have any information that could help return it to the owner, please contact richard.owen@staffordshire.police.uk

(8 July 2024)

 

Police are still investigating a sudden death in Stafford.

They were called at 9.35 on Monday morning 24th June, to reports of a body in the water at Victoria Park, Tenterbanks.

A man’s body was recovered from the water and he was sadly pronounced dead at 10am.

Police are currently treating the death as unexplained and no suspicious circumstances have been found at this stage.

Anyone with information is asked to get in touch by calling 101, quoting incident 198 of 26 June or by messaging using Live Chat on their website here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

 

Staffordshire Police are assisting HM Coroner’s Office with an investigation regarding the death of an 82-year-old woman in Stafford.

On Friday afternoon (28 June), Police received a report from Royal Stoke University Hospital informing them of the death.

Her death is not being treated as suspicious.

They are appealing for witnesses to an incident the woman was involved in on Thursday 16 May at about 9.15am on the Rising Brook junction of Brook Glen Road. She was a passenger in a black Kia Sedona heading to hospital in heavy traffic when the car came to an abrupt stop.

She suffered injuries to her legs.

The driver of the car and an unknown man in the area came to the woman’s aid.

Sadly, on Tuesday (25 June), the woman passed away in hospital.

Police are keen to speak to the man who helped her and those who might have CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage of the area at the time of the incident.

Call 101, quoting incident 398 of 28 June, or message using Live Chat on their website, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

(2 July 2024)

 

Police have recovered a bike from Rectory Court, (off Rowley Avenue) Stafford over the weekend, believed to be stolen.

The hike is a front suspended mountain bike, called uno blue chili with identifying marks.

If you are the owner, or think you know who the owner is, please can you contact Staffordshire police on 101  quoting incident 2140091655 to collect it.

(2 July 2024)

 

Appeal for information - St.Marys Church, Stafford

Extensive criminal damage has been done to a tombstone at Saint Mary’s Church, Saint Mary’s Place Stafford. Vandalism to the tombstone occurred between Friday 24th May 2024 at 21:00 pm and Saturday 25th May 2024 at 10:00 am.

Police are urging anyone who has further information regarding the damage, or witnessed the tombstone being vandalised, to get in contact with the officer looking into this matter; hareem.fatima@staffordshire.police.uk . They would really appreciate your help, so they can hold the perpetrators accountable for causing the damage.

Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(28 June 2024)

 

Missing Person appeal

Can you help find Sophie from Telford, she could be in the Stafford area? 

The 13 year old is missing from Stone and police are concerned for their welfare.

Sophie was last seen at around 6pm on Saturday 22nd June.

She is described as medium build, with red and black hair and was last seen wearing black bomber coat around her waist, black hoodie, black Tupac t-shirt, grey jogging bottoms and black converse trainers .

If you've seen Sophie or know of her whereabouts, please call on 101 or use the LiveChat here, www.staffordshire.police.uk

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(23 June 2024)

 

Police are appealing for information following a non-stop collision in Stone involving a Highways pick-up truck.

It happened at around 11pm on Wednesday (11 June) on Radford Street, when the pick-up truck collided with a wall.

Shortly after, the truck headed in the direction of the A51 following the collision.

No one was injured.

If you were in the area at the time of the collision or have any information, CCTV, or dashcam footage that could help with inquiries, call 101, quoting incident 258 of 12 June, or message using Live Chat on the website here – https://orlo.uk/O7dga

If you prefer to report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(15 June 2024)

 

Street Robbery - appeal for any information

Staffordshire Police have received a report of a street robbery that took place yesterday (Wednesday 12 June 2024) between 4:30 and 5 pm.

The incident occurred by the Co op store car park on Wildwood and Winchester Court and involved a group of four men using threats to take a pedal cycle from the victim .   

Two main offenders are described as 

White male wearing dark coloured clothing 

Mixed race male approx 6 foot tall, both males were wearing hi viz vests .

A further two men did offer the victim, help but it appears they may have been part of the group .

If you have any information that may identify any of the group please contact police on 101 and quote ref 0547/12th June.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police have also received a number of reports of vehicle break ins over the last few days .

The targeted vehicles have been vans and power tools have been stolen in most cases .

Please ensure that if possible you do not leave power tools in vehicles overnight or if you do that the vehicles are sufficiently secured and parked in well lit areas .

(13 June 2024)

 

Wildlife Crime

What is wildlife crime?

It can be difficult to know what is or isn’t a wildlife crime and when it’s right to involve the police. Wildlife crime takes many forms, from deer poaching and hare coursing, to trading in endangered species and poisoning or shooting birds. Find out what is a crime and what you can do about it.

Types of Rural and Wildlife Crime -

•Poaching, badger baiting, Lamping Illegally on a farmers land

•Illegal Pest Control

•Theft of plant machinery, tools, trailers from a rural area

•Fly Tipping, unauthorised felling of certain trees , cutting hedges ( season specific)

•Egg collecting, bird netting, shooting birds out of season

•Offences relating to Sites of special specific Interest ( protected conservation area )

•Night hawking -  is the theft of archaeological artefacts from protected archaeological sites and areas under the cover of darkness

•Heritage crime -  as defined by Historic England, is any offence which harms the value of heritage assets and their settings. Heritage assets are sites which are considered to have value to the heritage of England. Such sites include – Listed Buildings , Conservation areas , Registered battlefields

If you witness a suspected wildlife crime in action call 999 immediately and ask for the police.

For all other enquires call on 101. 

(11 June 2024)

 

At 1:30pm on Thursday 6th June, B&M on Kingsmead Retail Park reported two females shoplifting items of make up. The females have been followed by town centre CCTV and police officers arrested both nearby.

The females were given community resolution, which will include taking part in intervention to retail crime.

To report crime call 101, or use LiveChat here, www.staffordshire.police.uk

If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(11 June 2024)

 

A man has been charged with sexual assault offences following separate incidents in Staffordshire.

Darnell McCollins, aged 23, of Stafford, has been charged with two counts of sexual assault of a female.

It comes after police responded to reports of separate sexual assaults in Stafford at about 4.15pm on Monday (3 June).

McCollins is due to appear at Cannock Magistrates’ Court on 11 March 2025.

To report crime call 101, or use LiveChat here, www.staffordshire.police.uk

If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(10 June 2024)

 

Bike Register - Bike Marking Event, County Hospital Stafford

On Wednesday 12th June Crime Prevention Officers, will be holding a free bike marking event at County Hospital, Stafford. The event will be located outside the main entrance and will run from 10am until 3pm  

Over 1.3 million bikes are now registered on the Secured by Design Accredited BikeRegister database. In 2023, the database helped recover £600,000 worth of bikes.

BikeRegister's mission is to help both deter theft and assist in the recovery and return of bikes to their rightful owners, which is one of the biggest challenges faced by the police.

For more information on Bike Register please visit www.BikeRegister.com 

(4 June 2023)

 

Parcel Thefts

Police have recently experienced an increase in theft of parcels from doorsteps in the Stafford area .

In order to try and reduce this, please consider getting parcels delivered to delivery hubs where they can then be collected, or ensuring you name a safe place with the delivery company for them to put parcels . 

Here are some things you could do to reduce the risk of doorstep theft:

• track your parcel to ensure you or someone else is at home for the delivery
• install a video doorbell; this can be connected to your mobile so you are notified immediately of any delivery, and is easier to install than a full CCTV system
• install a security light
• arrange for your parcel to be delivered to a trusted neighbour, or other family members who will be at home; if you live in a flat, is there a someone who could accept the parcel for you?
• as mentioned above, use an off-site locker service for frequent deliveries, or for expensive items; these parcel boxes are more likely to be in busy, safer locations - such as supermarkets - rather than secluded areas which could be targeted by thieves

Hopefully this will reduce the number of parcels left on doorsteps .

(4 June 2023)

 

Police are investigating the circumstances leading up to a man’s death in Stafford on Friday (31 May).

Emergency services were called to a report of a concern for welfare at Espleys Yard in Stafford at around 6.20pm.

During the incident, a man in his 50s discharged his firearm, resulting in him being seriously injured. Despite the best efforts of medical staff at the scene, he sadly died a short while later.

Officers secured the scene and they do not believe there is any ongoing risk to the public. They are not looking for anyone else as part of this investigation.

The man’s next of kin have been informed.

Detective Inspector Louise Booker, who is investigating the incident, said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family in what is a tragic incident. We remain in regular contact with them and will be providing specialist support.”

There has been an increased police presence in the area following on from the incident to assist with the investigation and to provide reassurance to local residents.

Police are not treating the death as suspicious but continue to investigate the circumstances that led up to this tragic incident. If anyone has any information that may help with the investigation, please call 101 quoting incident number 534 of 31 May. Alternatively, for guaranteed anonymity, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to previous police contact.

(2 June 2024)

 

 

Officers are appealing for information after hay bales on a farm in Gnosall were deliberately set on fire.

Just after 12.30am on Saturday 18 May, police were called to a report of 12 hay bales alight on farmland.

The blaze is believed to have been started at around 10.30pm by three boys, aged between 10 and 12. They are described as wearing shorts and t-shirts. One had a red bike.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service also attended the scene.

Anyone with any information is asked to get in touch by calling 101, quoting incident 32 of 18 May, or by messaging us  Live Chat on the website here, www.staffordshire.police.uk

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111.

(29 May 2024)

 

A drug dealer who hid his stash of cocaine in a Kinder Surprise egg container has been jailed, as a fight against serious and organised crime continues.

Mark Groombridge, 38, from Uttoxeter, was sentenced to four-and-a-half years at Stafford Crown Court on Monday (20 May) after previously pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of a class A drug (cocaine), being concerned in the supply of a class B drug (cannabis) and two counts of possession of a bladed article.

Groombridge was driving a grey Peugeot van on High Street, Uttoxeter, in November 2022 when officers from the major and organised crime proactive teams stopped-and-searched him. They found a mobile phone and £705 cash.

He was taken to custody where a Kinder Surprise egg container with deals of cocaine inside was recovered. He also provided a positive drug swipe and was arrested.

When police later searched an address in Uttoxeter, a further £390 cash, cocaine and drugs paraphernalia were seized. Groombridge was released under investigation.

Then, after arresting Groombridge for a separate offence in October last year, proactive officers searched a vehicle and an address. They found and seized knives, cocaine, cannabis and unused snap bags.

 

The activity follows an ongoing commitment to proactively target serious and organised crime across the county by Staffordshire Police.

Read more about what local police forces are doing to disrupt and pursue criminals who plan, organise and commit serious criminal offences across the county, including drug supply, illegal firearms, knife crime, human trafficking and sexual exploitation here

(28 May 2024)

 

Staffordshire Police are investigating after two teenagers sadly died following a collision near Penkridge during the night of Saturday 25 May 2024.

Police were called by West Midlands Ambulance Service just before midnight to a report of a single-vehicle collision with four casualties on Cannock Road. They arrived at the scene a short time later.

Despite the efforts of emergency services, the driver of the Ford Ka, an 18-year-old male, and front-seat passenger, a 17-year-old male, were sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Two 17-year-old female passengers were taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Sergeant Richard Moors, from the Staffordshire and West Midlands Collision Investigation Unit (CIU), said: “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the young people who have tragically lost their lives and those who have suffered injuries.

“Specialist officers are supporting their families at this difficult time and we ask that their privacy is respected. A full and detailed investigation is now under way to establish the cause of the collision.”

Anyone who may have seen the collision, or the vehicle prior to the collision, please email ciu@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk, or call 101 quoting incident number 813 of 25 May, alternately message using Live Chat on their website here,  www.staffordshire.police.uk

(26 May 2024)

 

Local Officers from the Stafford Neighbourhood Policing Team are holding a surgery at Burton Square Stafford, opposite the Rising Brook Community Church, between 10am - 12 noon on Friday 24th May. 

Please come along if you have any issues or questions or just come down and say hello.

(23 May 2024)

 

Stolen Motorbike - appeal for information

On Tuesday 21st May 2024, a motorbike was stolen from Asda, Stafford. It happened between 11pm and midnight. A short time after, three people were seen pushing a motorbike from the direction of Asda towards Telegraph Street, Stafford. 

If anyone has any information, CCTV or dash cam footage please contact on 101 or online via the Staffordshire Police website here www.staffordshire.police.uk Please quote incident number; 0005 21/05/24.

 Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(23 May 2024)

 

Summer Crime Prevention Tips from Staffordshire Police

As the weather gets better as we head into the summer, we’d like to remind residents of simple crime prevention tips that are often forgotten in sunny weather but can also make you vulnerable to theft.

• Burglars often look for homes with windows or doors left open or with vulnerable features that they can exploit.
• Burglars are aware of the times when someone is expected to be away from their house such as during the school run or holidays. Don’t advertise that you are going to be away on social media.
• Burglars typically do not want to be seen or heard and if they see crime prevention technology like CCTV cameras or video doorbells, they are more likely to move on.
• Sheds and garages are often vulnerable as they are not that secure and contain tools which the burglar can use to assist them to gain entry to a home. Make sure they’re locked and nothing of significant value is inside them.
• If you want to leave windows open while you sleep, fit window restrictors so they cannot be fully opened, or make sure they are not large enough to allow access to a burglar.
• Ensure that all barbecue and garden equipment and tools are securely locked up in a shed and out of sight. Tools can be used by the potential offender to break in to your home.

Staffordshire Police hope that everyone is able to enjoy the summer weather but would also like to remind the community to be aware that criminals are opportunist and may take advantage of open windows or unlocked sheds as they know people will be out in the nice weather.

(21 May 2024)

 

 

Staffordshire Police are advising people to stay vigilant following a recent scam where financial fraudsters pretend to be calling from solicitors.

Recently, they have received a number of reports where people have received calls from scammers claiming to be from a local solicitor – telling those on the phone that they can recoup their losses for a price.

They would like to remind people that bank officials or the police will never ring you and ask you to move your money, nor will solicitors ring you claiming to be able to get your money back.

If you believe you have been targeted by a scammer, hang up the phone and use a different phone line to call Action Fraud or the police. If you don’t have access to another phone line, they advise waiting for a short period of time before calling a family member or friend to ensure the scammer is no longer on the phone.

Always question suspicious phone calls and report them to Action Fraud or the police.

If you think you or someone you know has been defrauded, you can report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.

(20 May 2024)

 

***APPEAL***

Officers are trying to trace a rare 5ltr white Mercedes S500 that was taken without keys from the Stone area in the early hours of Thursday 9th May 2024. It is believed the vehicle has then travelled into the Stafford area.

If anyone has information about the vehicle, please call Staffordshire Police on 101, or online through the website,  www.staffordshire.police.uk  - quoting incident number 332 of 09/05/24.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

(18 May 2024)

 

Staffordshire Police are appealing for information after the windscreen and bonnet of a car was damaged in Stafford.

The owner of a yellow Peugeot 208 parked near a car park on Gaol Street at around 6pm on Saturday 20 April.

When he went back to the car at around 11.30pm, he found broken bricks on the windscreen.

Anyone who was in the area at the time and has information which could help with enquiries is asked to get in touch.

Call on 101, quoting incident number 351 of 21 April, or message using Live Chat here, 

 https://orlo.uk/HGiHI

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(16 May 2024)

 

Stafford Neighbourhood team now have a new Mobile Police Station that they will be using for police surgeries and events across the area. Tomorrow, Thursday 16th May, Stafford Local Police Team will be  at Charnley Park, Henry Street Stafford from 7pm. Please come along if you have any issues or questions or just come down and say hello.

(15 May 2024)

 

WhatsApp group chats are targeted by fraudsters

WhatsApp group chat members are being warned they could be targeted by criminals, as Action Fraud reveals it has received 636 reports from victims of the messaging app this year.

The fraud often begins when a member of the group receives a WhatsApp audio call from the fraudster, pretending or claiming to be another member of the group. This is done to gain the individual’s trust, and often the scammer will use a false profile picture and/or display name, so at first glance it would appear to be a genuine member of the group.

 

The fraudster will tell the victim they are sending them a one-time passcode which will allow them to join an upcoming video call for group members. The criminal then asks the victim to share this passcode with them so they can be “registered” for the video call.

In reality, the criminal is asking for a registration code to register the victim’s WhatsApp account to a new device so they can take over their account.

Once the fraudster has access to the victim’s WhatsApp account, they will enable two-step verification which makes it impossible for the victim to regain access their account. Other members of the group, or friends and family in the victim’s contacts, will then be messaged asking them to transfer money urgently as they are in desperate need of help.

 

How to secure your WhatsApp account:

• Set up two-step verification (2SV) to give an extra layer of protection to your account. Tap Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable.
• CALL. If a family member or friend makes an unusual request on WhatsApp, always call the person outside of WhatsApp to confirm their identity.
• Report spam messages or block a sender within WhatsApp. Press and hold on the message bubble, select ‘Report’ and then follow the instructions.

 

If you live in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, victims of fraud and cybercrime should report to Police Scotland on 101.

 

Find out how to protect yourself from fraud: https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk

(14 May 2024)

 

In April 2024, there was a spate of vandalism around Stafford Town Centre, where a number of businesses had graffiti sprayed over the walls. These included the Stafford Crown Court, Butlers Bell and The Essence of the Orient. After a number of enquiries and viewing CCTV, suspects were identified and arrested. A female, aged 16, from Stafford, has been charged, to appear in court 29th May. 

To report crime call 101 or use LiveChat here, www.staffordshire.police.uk

If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

(12 May 2024)

 

Officers from Stafford are seeking to identify this person, in connection with some further reports of graffiti, to the Guildhall Shopping Centre in Stafford. This follows on from a recent spate of vandalism that happened around Stafford Town Centre in April.

If anyone can provide Police with information then please email: hareem.fatima@staffordshire.police.uk

(10 May 2024)

 

A man has been handed down a suspended prison sentence after being stopped and searched back in December.

Staffordshire Magistrates Court, last week, heard that on the 19th of December 2023, local officers were alerted to a male acting suspiciously at the Waterfront Shopping Centre.

A man was detained and searched, and was found with stolen property from a shop and also a locking knife. He was arrested, charged, and refused bail following a police investigation and bailed to appear in court on the 2nd of May 2024.

Despite failing to appear, District Judge Grego found him guilty in absence of the unlawful possession of the knife and ordered his arrest.

Bradley Howes, 26, from Telford was arrested that night and sentenced to 6 months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months. He was also ordered to pay a total of £404 in costs.

(9 May 2024)

 

A man has been charged with drug supply offences after police found heroin, crack cocaine and cash in Stafford.

Jamie Hunt, aged 22, of Stafford, has been charged with possession with intent to supply heroin, crack cocaine and possession of criminal property.

It comes after officers found the drugs following a street search near Doxey Road on Tuesday (2 May). They also found more drugs and cash after searching an address in the area.

Hunt is due to appear at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre.

Staffordshire Police are continuing to proactively target serious and organised crime across Staffordshire, working with the Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) as part of Operation Target.

To read more visit: https://orlo.uk/SDQm8

(9 May 2024)

 

Seventy arrested as campaign drives home road safety message

A road safety campaign aimed at helping to reduce the number of people killed or injured on Staffordshire’s roads has seen 70 arrests and action taken against more than 300 drivers.

Tragically, 45 people lost their lives in road collisions across Staffordshire in 2023. In response, Staffordshire Police launched a six-week Look Again campaign to encourage motorists and motorcyclists to give the road their full attention and avoid distractions.

The initiative ran for six weeks from 18 March with the intention of raising awareness of the ‘fatal four’ offences that contribute to serious collisions. These are speeding, drink and drug driving, using a phone while driving and not wearing a seatbelt.

During the campaign period police made 70 arrests for vehicle-related offences. This included 18 drivers, who were found to be driving under the influence of drugs, and 15 for drink-driving.

Three people were also arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving.

In addition, police issued 316 traffic offence reports, with action taken against drivers for poor driving habits, including not wearing a seatbelt, using a mobile phone whilst driving and driving at excess speeds.

They also seized 125 vehicles and recovered 37 stolen vehicles and undertook 117 stop searches. A combined total of 176 breath tests and drug swipes were also carried out.

This activity follows an ongoing commitment to make our county’s roads safer.

Through Operation Lightning police aim to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on the roads of Staffordshire and to disrupt and deter criminals from using the road network.

Read more, here: https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/police-forces/staffordshire-police/areas/staffordshire-police/campaigns/2020/op-lightning/

(8 May 2024)

 

A man has been charged with rape following an investigation into a recent incident in Stafford.

Abiola Raji, aged 31, of Stafford, has been charged with rape.

It comes as part of an investigation into an incident that happened on Sunday 21 April near the Vine Hotel on Salters Street when a woman was raped.

Raji is due to appear at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre.

Staffordshire Police would like to thank everyone who has come forward with information as part of this enquiries. However, they are still keen to speak to people who might have information that can help with the investigation.

You can get in touch by calling 101, quoting incident 744 of 21 April, or by messaging using Live Chat on the website, www.staffordshire.police.uk

If you want to stay anonymous, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Tell them what you know, not who you are.

(7 May 2024)

 

SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY - BASWICH

Staffordshire Police have received a report of theft of a role of cable from the drive of a property in the Baswich area of Stafford.

The suspect has attended the address on Farmdown Drive at approx 08:30am on 03/05/2024

The suspect has been a passenger in a white Transit style van, he is described as dressed all in black .

If you have seen anything suspicious in the area or have any details of a suspicious white van in the area please contact police on 101 and quote incident ref : 0667/03 MAY.

(3 May 2024)

 

Burglary, Main Road, Milford, Stafford

Police received a report of a house being broken into near to Milford Lodge Galleries, Milford Road, Milford, Stafford, during day light hours on Wednesday 1st May.  People unknown have accessed the property by taking out the front door panel.

If you have seen or heard anything suspicious or have any CCTV, dash cam footage which could help this investigation, can you please call 101. You can also contact Staffordshire Police via their website here, www.staffordshire.police.uk

Patrols have increased in the area, and they are encouraging communities to be vigilant and make sure all properties are locked and secured.

If a crime is in progress or life is in danger dial ‘999’

(3 May 2024)

*UPDATE* 

Police have carried out enquiries and can confirm nothing was stolen from the property and this was possibly youths trespassing and causing issues . 

Police will increase hi visibility patrols in the area.

If you see anything that may be suspicious in the area please contact Police on 101 to report .

(3 May 2024)

 

A man has been arrested on suspicion of rape as investigations continue into a recent incident in Stafford.

At about 8pm on Sunday 21 April, a woman was walking near to the Vine Hotel on Salters Street when she was seriously sexually assaulted.

She is continuing to receive support from specialist officers at this time.

Police have been carrying out urgent enquiries as part of their investigation and have arrested a 33-year-old man, from Stafford.

He has been questioned by detectives and has since been released on conditional police bail while enquiries continue.

They are still keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or anybody with any information that can help with this investigation.

Call 101, quoting incident 744 of 21 April, or message using Live Chat on their website here, Staffordshire Police

If you want to stay anonymous, you can call Crimestoppers on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111. Tell them what you know, not who you are.

(2 May 2024)

 

 Staffordshire Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious collision in east Staffordshire.

Officers went to the A50 in Uttoxeter just before 6pm on Sunday 28 April, after a purple Peugeot and a black Ford Kuga collided.

West Midlands Ambulance Service and Midlands Air Ambulance also went to the scene.

The road was closed and later reopened.

The driver of the Peugeot, a man in his 40s, was taken to hospital with head injuries. 

He remains in a critical but stable condition.

The driver of the Kuga stayed at the scene to help with enquiries.

Police are keen to speak to anyone with any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area, or to anyone with any information which could help.

Call on 101, quoting incident 509 of 28 April, or message us using Live Chat on their website here, Staffordshire Police

You can also get in touch with collision investigators directly by emailing ciu@staffordshire.police.uk

(1 May 2024)

 

Do you have some spare time?

Do you want to give back to your community?

Why not become a volunteer and help Staffordshire Police make a difference.

They have a number of opportunities including:

Community Engagement Support volunteer

Crime Prevention Panel volunteer

Independent Advisory Group volunteer

Vehicle Fleet Support volunteer

Multi-Faith Chaplain volunteer

Special Constable

Cadet Leader

For more information about these roles and to apply, visit their website here: https://orlo.uk/OGxXy

(30 April 2024)

 

Appeal to trace owner of a suspected stole pedal cycle

During the early hours of Saturday 27th April, officers have stopped a man in Stafford Town Centre and seized this bike, which was believed to have been stolen.

If anyone has any information or believes this to be their pedal cycle then please email; lyndsey.brough@staffordshire.police.uk 

(28 April 2024)

 

QR Codes - what's the real risk?

Keep yourself safe from fraudulent QR codes by only scanning codes you trust. QR codes in open spaces, such as car parks, can be risky.

Read more here: QR Codes - what's the real risk? - QR Codes - what's the real risk? - NCSC.GOV.UK

(28 April 2024)

 

Detectives are appealing for information after a woman was seriously sexually assaulted in Stafford.

At about 8pm on Sunday (21 April), a woman was walking near to the Vine Hotel on Salters Street when she was seriously sexually assaulted by a man.

She was taken to hospital for treatment after suffering injuries in the assault which were not believed to be serious.

Specialist officers are supporting her at this deeply traumatic time.

At this stage police think the suspect stayed in the area after the attack happened.

They are we’re urging anyone who may have witnessed this incident to contact Staffordshire Police.

Call 101, quoting incident 744 of 21 April, or message using Live Chat on their website.

If you want to stay anonymous, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Tell them what you know, not who you are.

(24 April 2024)

Three suspected vehicle thieves have been arrested after a stolen car was found by police.

At 11.40pm on Monday (22 April), police received a call after a group of men were seen taking a BMW from a driveway near Longton Road in Barlaston.

Some of the group drove away in the stolen car, whilst others drove away in a Honda Civic.

The police immediately started work to track both of the cars in the area. Specialist officers from roads policing and a dog unit spotted both of them being driven towards Stoke-on-Trent.

The stolen BMW drove on the wrong side of the A34 in an attempt to escape. It was later found abandoned and has been seized for forensic examination.

They also stopped the Honda and arrested three people:

• A 21-year-old man, from Stoke-on-Trent, on suspicion of burglary, possessing an offensive weapon in a public place, dangerous driving, drug driving, failing to stop, driving without a license and insurance, possession of a class B drug and criminal damage.

• A 27-year-old man, from Stoke-on-Trent, on suspicion of burglary, vehicle theft and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place

• A 19-year-old man, from Stoke-on-Trent, on suspicion of burglary, vehicle theft, possessing an offensive weapon in a public place, attempting to possess a class A drug and possession with intent to supply a class B drug

All three are being questioned in custody (23 April).

Since Staffordshire Police launched their crackdown on vehicle theft across the county, they have arrested more than 120 suspects and charged more than 50 with offences.

Vehicle thieves can work alone, but can also be part of wider organised crime groups who steal the vehicles for the purpose of selling them for profit.

To read more about what Staffordshire Police are doing to tackle vehicle theft visit: https://orlo.uk/HBcwe

(24 April 2024)

 

We’re sharing the locations of Staffordshire’s safety camera vans for the last time now as the #LookAgain campaign is in its final week.

The vans encourage those that choose to speed to slow down and help keep the roads safe for everyone.

When it comes to the speed limit, it's important to remember that the speed limit is the maximum for that road rather than the target.

This week the safety camera vans are due to visit:

Cannock, Hednesford, Huntington, Rawnsley, Rugeley, Wedges Mills

Bobbington, Brewood, Cheslyn Hay, Featherstone, Four Ashes, Penkridge, Perton, Trescott, Wombourne

Biddulph, Cheadle, Dilhourne, Fole, Kingsley Moor, Knypersley, Longsdon, Rushton Spencer, Upper Tean

(22 April 2024)

Appeal for any information

Police are appealing for information, regarding an incident at The Fragrance Shop in The Guildhall Shopping Centre, Stafford. Five men entered the store on Sunday 7th April at 2:10pm, a quantity of high value fragrances were stolen and a member of staff was injured in this incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Staffordshire Police on 101 or through the website here, https://orlo.uk/MecyW quoting reference number 364 07/04/24.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

22 April 2024

Police are investigating after a burglary in Stone which took place in the early hours of Wednesday morning, April 17th.

Just before 1.50am five men broke into a house on Granville Terrace, Stone.

Nothing was stolen.

The men, wearing masks and grey/dark clothing were seen at the train station before the burglary and were seen running off in the direction of Oulton Road afterwards.

Anyone with any information, or relevant dash cam, doorbell or CCTV footage, should contact via Live Chat on their website here, Staffordshire Police or by calling 101 quoting incident number 29 of 17 April.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

(18 April 2024)

New data released by Action Fraud reveals £6.7 million was lost to ticket fraud last year. https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ticketfraud

Action Fraud, the national fraud and cybercrime reporting service, has launched a ticket fraud awareness campaign, warning people to be alert to fraudsters trying to catch out people planning for popular and sold-out events. Last year more than 8,700 people reported they had been a victim ticket fraud, with a total of £6.7 million lost. This works out to an average loss of £772 per victim. 

 How to protect yourself from ticket fraud:

• Only buy tickets from the venue’s box office, the promoter, an official agent or a well-known and reputable ticket exchange site.
• Avoid paying for tickets by bank transfer, especially if buying from someone unknown. Credit card or payment services such as PayPal give you a better chance of recovering the money if you become a victim of fraud.
• The password you use for your email account, as well as any other accounts you use to purchase tickets, should be different from all your other passwords. Use three random words to create a strong and memorable password, and enable 2-step verification (2SV).
• Be wary of unsolicited emails, texts or adverts offering unbelievably good deals on tickets.
• Is the vendor a member of Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR)? If they are, the company has signed up to their strict governing standards. STAR also offers an approved Alternative Dispute Resolution service to help customers with outstanding complaints. For more information visit star.org.uk/buy_safe.

Report ticket fraud

If you feel at all suspicious, report the email to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS) at report@phishing.gov.uk. For more advice on how to stay secure online, please visit cyberaware.gov.uk.

Find out how to protect yourself from fraud: https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk

If you live in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, victims of fraud and cybercrime should report to Police Scotland on 101.

(17 April 2024)

 

A Dispersal Order has been put in place around Rowley Park, Stafford over the next few days to tackle anti-social behaviour ( ASB ). It comes following recent issues of groups congregating in the park, causing a nuisance to people using the park and acting disorderly towards members of the public and disrupting some sports and activities at Rowley Park.

The order, granted under section 34 of the Anti-Social behavior, Crime and Policing Act 2014, gives officers the power to disperse anyone for the purpose of or reducing the likelihood of members of the public in the locality being harassed, alarmed or distressed or the occurrence of crime and disorder.

As part of the powers, police can issue the notices for a period of 48 hours and anyone found breaching a notice is liable to be arrested and face further action.

Anyone with any concerns can contact Staffordshire Police on 101 or visit their website here, Home | Staffordshire Police

(10 April 2024)

 

Electric Scooter Seized For No Insurance - Weeping Cross - Stafford

On Friday 5th April 2024 officers seized an electric scooter in the Weeping cross area of Stafford, due to the rider not having any insurance for the electric scooter. 

We have included some information from Staffordshire Police below regarding the use of e-Scooters,

Advice on using e-scooters

What is an e-scooter?

Electrical scooters (also known as e-scooters) come under the category of “powered transporters”; this covers a range of personal transport devices which are powered by a motor.

E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. Which means the rules that apply to motor vehicles, also apply to e-scooters including the need to have a licence, insurance and tax.

It's not currently possible to get insurance for privately owned e-scooters, which means it's illegal to use them on the road or in public spaces. If you're using a private e-scooter you risk the vehicle being seized under S.165 Road Traffic Act 1988 for no insurance. 

If you cause serious harm to another person whilst riding an e-scooter the incident will be investigated in the same way it would if you were riding a motorcycle or driving a car. 

Rental e-scooter trials

Trials of rental e-scooters are taking place in the UK. Anyone using a rental e-scooter on a public road or other public space, has to comply with the relevant road traffic legislation or they face potential prosecution.

To rent an e-scooter you must:

· be at least 16 years old

· hold the correct driving licence (category Q or P/M)

· create an account with the rental company

E-scooters can only be used in approved areas. 

Legal use of an e-scooter

It's legal to use an e-scooter on private land with the permission of the land owner.

Penalties and offences

If you don't have a licence, or the correct licence, or are riding without insurance you could face a Fixed Penalty notice:

· with a £300 fine and six penalty points on your licence for having no insurance

· up to £100 fine and three to six penalty points for riding without the correct licence

You could also be committing an offence if you're caught: 

· riding on a pavement; Fixed Penalty Notice and possible £50 fine 

· using a mobile phone or other handheld mobile device while riding; £200 and six penalty points

· riding through red lights; Fixed Penalty Notice, £100 fine and possible penalty points

· drink driving: the same as if you were driving a car, you could face court-imposed fines, a driving ban and possible imprisonment

If you're using an e-scooter in public in an antisocial manner, you can also risk the e-scooter being seized under section 59 of the Police Reform Act. 

When riding an e-scooter, we would always recommend wearing safety protection such as a helmet and to keep to the speed limit.

(9 April 2024)

 

Burglary Crime Prevention Advice.

There has been an increase of Burglary reports over the last few months in the Staffordshire area and we just wanted to share some crime prevention advice to help people make sure their homes are as safe as they can be. 

Please see the below link on how to protect your home from crime, this covers door and window lock advice, general window and door security and has a checklist for ensuring your home is secure when you leave.

Protecting your home from crime | Crime prevention | Staffordshire Police

(7 April 2024)

 

Security bike marking event

There is a security bike marking event outside Baswich Library on Saturday 6 April 2024 at 2 - 4pm

All welcome.

(4 April 2024)

 

More than 100 vehicles have been stopped, 11 vehicles seized and one motorist dealt with for reversing along a motorway slip road, during a two-week crackdown on tailgating on the M6 in Staffordshire.

Run by the Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG), Operation Proximity kicked off on 11 March and ended on Sunday 24 March, with the aim of raising awareness of tailgating as an offence.

A total of 36 vehicles were stopped for tailgating and 101 were stopped for lane hogging or bad lane discipline, with action taken against drivers for a number of traffic offences and poor driving habits, including:

Five drivers and one passenger were dealt with for not wearing a seatbelt

14 drivers were dealt with for lane discipline or using a mobile phone whilst driving

13 vehicles were stopped and drivers reported for various traffic offences

Nine vehicles were seized for having no insurance

Three drivers were dealt with on behalf of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for having no tax, with two vehicles seized

Three drivers were found to have no MOT

One driver was stopped for driving at excess speeds

Read more here: https://orlo.uk/6FHHo

(4 April 2024)

 

Look Again to keep Staffordshire’s roads safe

This week Staffordshire Police are sharing the locations of Staffordshire’s safety camera vans in support of the #LookAgain campaign to encourage all drivers to think about their speed on the road.

Speeding is a major contributor to fatalities in collisions, so they are urging everyone to make sure they’re travelling at an appropriate speed for the road conditions – the speed limit is the maximum, not the target.

Here are the areas the vans are due to visit this week to support safe driving behaviours:

Alsagers Bank, Betley, Kidsgrove, Loggerheads, Madeley, Newcastle, Parkhouse, Scot Hay, Talke.

Bishops Wood, Brewood, Cheslyn Hay, Coven Heath, Essington, Gospel End, Penkridge Prestwood, Trescott.

Bucknall, Florence, Meir, Meir Heath, Milton, Norton Green, Trentham, Tunstall.

The safety camera vans travel across the county to different locations every week, so if your area isn’t mentioned this week keep an eye out for it in the future as they plan to keep sharing locations throughout April to support the #LookAgain campaign. https://orlo.uk/RF2VH

(2 April 2024)

 

Public appeal for a stolen vehicle.

Officers are appealing to trace a WHITE BMW X3, registration number; SG69 YUW. The vehicle was stolen with keys from an address in Ashdale Park, Yarnfield, in the early hours of Friday 29th March 2024. The vehicle has been sighted shortly after it was taken in the Stafford area. Its believed it may possibly be in the area and officers are asking for the community, to please check streets and nearby locations for the vehicle that may have been parked or abandoned in your area. If the vehicle is seen please call; Staffordshire Police on 101, Facebook or online through our website, quoting incident reference 113 29/03/2024. 

****Appeal update****
In relation to our earlier appeal for the stolen White BMW from Yarnfield, we are happy to say the vehicle has been located in the Lichfield Road area of Stafford. Officers will continue to investigate the theft and burglary and will maintain support to the victims. The local policing team wish to thank the community for information and sharing our appeal. 

(30 March 2024)

 

***APPEAL for information***

Officers from Stafford are hoping to locate two high value electric bikes, that were stolen from an address in Yarrow Grove, Doxey, Stafford between Sunday 17th - Thursday 22nd March 2024.

Investigations are continuing however, If anyone has any information then please contact Staffordshire Police; https://orlo.uk/LQAcM quoting crime reference number- 21240040675 or emailing direct to; matthew.poole@staffordshire.police.uk with any information.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(29 March 2024)

Great Haywood - Vehicle Theft

Police would like to speak to anybody in the Cliff Road, Lichfield Drive, and Rockhouse Drive area’s of Great Haywood who may have any information that could assist in locating a stolen vehicle, or who may be responsible for its disappearance .

Between 3:30pm on Wednesday 20th March and 11am on Sunday 24th March, a White ’61 plate Range Rover Evoque was removed from the driveway of a residential property, and subsequently stolen.

If you have any CCTV in the locality that may assist or witnessed anything suspicious. please email daniel.hughes@staffordshire.police.uk quoting reference number 355 of 24th March 2024

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or https://orlo.uk/acwkl

(26 March 2024)

 

Rural Crime Update - Stolen Farm vehicle returned to owner

Following the theft of a John Deere Gator from a property in Ranton overnight between the 13th & 14th of March, Police are pleased to update that thanks to the help of a member of the public and Shift 1 NPT officers, the vehicle has now been returned to its rightful owner.

The John Deere Gator was located hidden in woodland in High Onn just outside the village of Wheaton Aston. Police are still appealing to anybody with information about who may be responsible for the theft, or recognises the two people in the photo, to please contact on 101 or via the website - https://orlo.uk/EzCnH quoting reference number 634 of 14th March 2024.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(25 March 2024)

 

Police have arrested two boys after a teenager was assaulted and robbed in Stafford.

At around 8.50pm on Monday (18 March), they received a call saying that someone was being attacked by a small group of teenagers in an alleyway near Meadow Road.

The victim, a teenage boy, suffered injuries to his face and head in the incident. He wasn’t seriously injured but was left shaken after what happened.

The suspects took the victim’s bag and mobile phone.

Police have been looking over CCTV and speaking to people who were in the area at the time to find out more about what happened.

Two boys, both 16 and from Stafford, were arrested on suspicion of robbery.

They have since been released on conditional bail while enquiries continue.

If you saw what happened or if you have any other information that could help, please get in touch. You can call on 101, quoting incident 674 of 18 March, or message using Live Chat on the website.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(22 March 2024)

 

The Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG) have been running a campaign to crack down on tailgating on the M6 in Staffordshire.

Operation Proximity is running until 24 March with the aim of raising awareness of tailgating as an offence.

Tailgating is when a motorist drives too close to the vehicle in front. It continues to be a serious problem on our roads, with figures showing that one in eight of all road casualties are caused by people driving too close to the vehicle in front.

Tailgating makes the driver in front feel targeted and victimised and it distracts their attention from the road ahead, which makes them more likely to make a mistake.

Beyond being extremely dangerous, it is also illegal and offenders can be given as many as nine points on their licence.

Operation Proximity supports the Look Again campaign, which focuses on encouraging drivers to give the road their full attention and avoid distractions. It also coincides with National Highways’ national campaign targeting lane hogs and tailgaters.

(20 March 2024)

 

Officers across Staffordshire are raising awareness of drink-spiking and the work they do to support victims, as part of a national campaign to help people stay safe on a night out.

Spiking Awareness Week runs from Monday18 March until Sunday 24 March.

Throughout the week local policing teams (LPTs) will be working with businesses in the county and offering reassurance to members of the public. This will include encouraging victims to get tested if they think they have been spiked.

Officers will also be joining forces with the Partnership Against Business Crime in Staffordshire (PABCIS) to provide training to venue staff. This will focus on the signs of spiking and how they can help prevent such offences.

The common signs of spiking are unconsciousness, nausea and vomiting, memory loss, loss of inhibitions, difficulty speaking, blurred vision, breathing difficulties, confusion, or feeling sleepy.

Read more here: https://orlo.uk/weEqw

(18 March 2024)

 

Stafford / Whitgreave - Theft from Vehicles

Police want to speak to anybody with any information that may assist in identifying a man seen in the Whitgreave and North end of Stafford between 3:50am and 5:30am on Tuesday 5th March 2024 .

At approximately 3:50am the man, described as White, Slim Build, wearing a beanie style hat, dark coloured waist length hooded jacket and dark trousers, has been seen at a premises off Whitgreave Lane, trying car doors.

At around 5:20am, he was then seen in Pasture Lane, Stafford and has accessed a vehicle parked on a driveway of a residential premises and removed items from within.

If you have any information that may assist, please can you contact on 101 or via the website here, https://orlo.uk/8bsx1 and quote reference number 359 of the 5th March 2024

Alternatively you can contact CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(7 March 2024)

 

Do you recognise this man?

Police would like to speak to him after a fuel nozzle was damaged and the fuel supply was cut at a service station in Stone.

At around 2.30am on Sunday 3 March, a man arrived at the service station on Lichfield Road and removed all nozzles from their pumps, before throwing them onto the ground and causing damage to at least one of them.

The man returned around two hours later and cut the fuel supply to the entire service station.

Enquiries to identify the man in the pictures are ongoing.

If you recognise him, or if you have any other information that could help, please get in touch. You can call on 101, quoting incident 223 of 3 March, or message using Live Chat here,  www.staffordshire.police.uk 

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(5 March 2024)

*UPDATE: THIS MAN HAS NOW BEEN IDENTIFIED - THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP*

(7 March 2024)

A Dispersal Order was put in place around the A34 in Stafford and Stone over the weekend to tackle anti-social behaviour Street Racing.

It comes following recent issues of illegal street racing on the A34 from Stafford to Trentham.

The order, granted under section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, gives officers the power to disperse anyone for the purpose of or reducing the likelihood of members of the public in the locality being harassed, alarmed, distressed or the occurrence of crime and disorder.

Failing to comply with an order is a criminal offence and police can return anyone under the age of 16 to their home address.

Those found driving carelessly or dangerously, causing unnecessary noise nuisance or acting in an anti-social manner, could see action taken against them in the form of:

• Warnings and vehicle seizures under the Police Reform Act 2002

• Fixed penalty tickets being issued

• Summons to court, seizure of your vehicle and possible arrest.

“Please use the roads responsibly and follow the Highway Code to ensure everyone’s safety.”

Anyone with any concerns can contact Staffordshire Police by reporting online at  www.staffordshire.police.uk and messaging on Live Chat, or call 101.

(5 March 2024)

 

A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a man died in Stafford.

Just before 6pm on Sunday 3 March, Police were called to an address in Rising Brook.

Sadly, a man in his 70s was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 71-year-old man, from Rugeley, was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

If you have any information which could help with enquiries, call 101, quoting incident 530 of 3 March, or message using Live Chat on their website. www.staffordshire.police.uk

If you’d like to stay anonymous, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Tell them what you know, not who you are.

(4 March 2024)

 

Booking holidays safely

Most of us look forward to an annual holiday or short break which, more often than not, we find and book online.

But fraudsters also love the internet. They use fake websites, listings, emails, advertisements, social media posts and texts – and also phone calls – to trick you into paying for a holiday or other travel to Never Never Land. In other words, it simply doesn’t exist.

To help save you from losing your holiday and your money, here are some expert tips on safely searching and booking holidays and travel with confidence. Either take a look at the attached leaflet or read the tips on the advice page: https://www.getsafeonline.org/holiday/

And if you or any of your family are interested in a career in cyber you might be interested in the International Women's Day webinar, next Friday. 'Celebrating and Championing Women in Cyber' hosted by Baroness Nicky Morgan. To register simply visit the below link: https://www.getsafeonline.org/international-womens-day-2024/  

Attachments: Feb24_Holidays_Leaflet.pdf

(2 March 2024)

 

Are you helping a friend or family member learn to drive?

If you’re supervising a learner driver and take a phone call while they are driving you could face six points on your driving licence for not giving the road and learner driver your full attention.

If you need to take a call while you are supervising, ask the driver to find a safe place to park and turn the engine off before you pick up the phone.

Read more about the laws on mobile phone use here: https://orlo.uk/pphRa

#PhoneFree

(28 Feb 2024)

Police wish to remind the community to be vigilant around cash machines.

There have been reports of bank cards being taken by offenders when victims are withdrawing cash from bank machines using distraction techniques. If someone you don’t know begins talking to you at a cash machine and you believe this to be suspicious, make sure that you don’t engage with them, that you have all your belongings and obscure your PIN number from other peoples view.

(26 Feb 2024)

 

Stafford Police have released an image of a man they want to speak to following an attempted burglary in Stafford.

At around 7.40pm on 10 January, a man was seen attempting to get inside an address off Silkmore Lane.

He is described as white with a clean shaven head, in his 30s or 40s and was wearing a sweat shirt and a parker jacket.

Officers have since spoken to the victim and are appealing for anyone with any information to get in touch.

Call us on 101, quoting incident 266 of 11 January, or message using Live Chat on their website, www.staffordshire.police.uk 

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(26 Feb 2024)

 

Staffordshire Police have recorded 70 driving offences over a five-day period following a road safety operation in Staffordshire.

Officers from the Roads Policing Unit (RPU) have been completing a series of targeted patrols around the county as part of Operation Tramline.

The latest operation ran from 12 February to 16 February and was supported by officers from National Highways. They spotted drivers who were falling short of the expected road safety standards on the A38, A34, A5, A449 and A50.

Most commonly, they found motorists who were not wearing a seatbelt, using a mobile phone behind the wheel and speeding.  

They also stopped a stolen vehicle near Derby having spotted it on the A38 near Burton-on-Trent.  

Other highlights from the operation included:

• A motorbike driver riding carelessly resulting in the bike being seized and the rider reported for the offence
• A lorry having an insecure load
• A disqualified driver being stopped
• Two drivers being reported for summons at court
• A motorbike displaying an illegal number plate and having defect mirrors

PC Sambrook, who was part of the operation, said: “Officers and local partners in Staffordshire are committed to championing road safety and ensuring we continue to minimise the opportunity for people to be killed or seriously injured as a result of negligence on our roads.

“Operation Tramline is one of the many ways we work alongside National Highways and other agencies to proactively police our roads and make sure motorists uphold the standards expected of them.”

The operation sees officers driving around in an unmarked HGV cab, owned by National Highways, who spot road traffic offences in real time. These offences are then radioed to police who then pull-over the suspect drivers and deal with the offences.

PC Sambrook added: “We’ve seen first-hand the devastating effects that road traffic offences can have as well as the disruption that can be caused to emergency services if roads are disrupted or blocked by negligent drivers.

“In some cases, offenders do not admit or recognise their negligence, particularly if they have developed bad habits over time such as travelling above the speed limit or not indicating at junctions.

“It’s vital that we continue to educate drivers on the importance of road traffic safety and take appropriate enforcement action where necessary.”

For more information on how to stay safe on our roads, visit their website: Road safety | Staffordshire Police

To find out more about National Highways and what you can do to stay safe on the motorway, visit: https://highwaysengland.co.uk/road-safety/driving-on-motorways/

(23 Feb 2024)

 

Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious collision in Stafford.

Officers went to the A5013 in the Walton area just after 2.15pm on Tuesday 20 February after a white Vauxhall Mokka and a red Citroen Berlingo collided.

A man, driving the Berlingo, was taken to hospital with head injuries.

A woman, who was a passenger in the Berlingo, was also taken to hospital with shoulder and neck injuries.

Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing at this time.

The driver of the Mokka, a man, was taken to hospital for precautionary checks.

Police are keen to speak to anyone with any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area or those with any information which could help.

Call us on 101, quoting incident 385 of 20 February, or message us using Live Chat on their website.

(22 Feb 2024)

Staffordshire Police have arrested a man after a car was stolen at knifepoint in Stafford.

Police got a call at about 6.35pm on Sunday 18 February when a man robbed a Skoda Octavia after threatening the owner with a knife.

Once it was reported, work started immediately to track it down.

The Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG) found it onto the M42. The suspect ditched it at Hopwood services, in Alvechurch, after colliding with another car. He tried to run away but didn’t get far.

Thankfully, no-one was injured in the collision.

A 44-year-old man, from Birmingham, was arrested on suspicion of robbery, failing to stop and dangerous driving and is being held in custody for questioning.

Police say they working hard to make Staffordshire a hostile place for thieves to offend and have arrested more than 120 suspected vehicle thieves and charged more than 50 of them since they launched a crackdown in 2022.

Want to know more about the work to target vehicle thieves, please visit their website here: https://orlo.uk/qlpGH

(20 Feb 2024)

Overnight Vehicle car key burglaries.

During the early hors of Sunday18th February 2024, Police received reports of a number of incidents where offenders have broken into properties with the intention of stealing car keys before taking the cars. Vehicles targeted to date have been BMW, Audi, Ford, VW, Seat, Mercedes, mainly sports, high performance & high spec models. 

Please remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity on either 999 if in progress, or 101 retrospectively. They advise the use of Faraday pouches or boxes for keyless entry cars and not leaving them on display or in obvious locations. Ensure side gates are padlocked as many of the breaks have been via backdoors. 

Having your car broken into and losing your things to thieves can be very distressing. Here are a few simple steps you can take to keep your vehicle, and what’s in it, safe - Keeping vehicles safe | Crime prevention | Staffordshire Police

(19 Feb 2024)

At around 11.15am on Sunday 7 January, a man entered the shop on Greengate Street, before leaving a short time after, having taken some products that he hadn't paid for.

Police would like to speak to the man pictured as part of ongoing enquiries.

If you recognise him, or if you have any other information that could help, please get in touch. You can call on 101, quoting incident 353 of 7 January, or message using Live Chat on the website,  www.staffordshire.police.uk 

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(16 Feb 2024)

 

Swynnerton - Suspicious Incident

Police are looking to speak to anybody in the Fairbanks Walk or The Orchard area of Swynnerton, who may have any CCTV or Doorbell footage , after a report of two men acting suspiciously in the area at around 4am on Wednesday the 14th February .

Two men, both described as being between 5ft 10 and 6ft tall, one wearing a red jacket, have been seen in the area, shining a torch into residential properties, and then have been seen to make off in a small hatchback at around 4.05am, the vehicle was potentially a Fiat Panda, however this has not been confirmed as yet.

If you have any information that may assist to identify these two males, or can provide information around the circumstances of their presence, then please email lisa.powell@staffordshire.police.uk quoting reference number 78 of the 14th February.

(15 Feb 2024)

 

Burglary and vehicle theft around Stafford.

Staffordshire Police have received three separate reports of burglary overnight (Monday/Tuesday 12/13 February) and others have been reported overnight within the last week. Suspects have damaged locks and door handles to gain access into the victims homes, in order to locate vehicle keys and then steal the victims cars from their driveways. 

This is a reminder to everyone within our communities to remove car keys and do not leave car keys in sight or in obvious safe places where offenders will look. Please check all doors and windows to your properties are secure and check for any signs of damage to locks or door & window seals. This can include, drill marks, burn marks or any trims being removed.

If you wish to report anything suspicious or have been a victim of a crime then please call 101 or visit the website to report it on online chat; www.staffordshire.police.uk 

In an emergency dial 999.

(12 Feb 2024)

 

WITNESS APPEAL- STOLEN VEHICLE

Police are appealing for witnesses or would like to hear from anybody with CCTV or Dashcam footage to please get in touch after a vehicle was stolen from Barn Common, Woodseaves between 3 - 8am on Sunday 11 February 2024.

The vehicle, a ’72 plate Grey Mercedes AMG A45S with a distinctive black spoiler and black and red interior, was stolen from a residential property, and then was later believed to of been sighted at around 5.10am on Cameo Way, Stafford, near to Junction 14 of the M6, where two men have been seen to get out of the vehicle, however upon being challenged have retreated back to the vehicle and driven off at speed.

If you have any information that may assist in locating the vehicle or identifying who may be responsible, please call 101 quoting reference number 201, 11th February 2024.

Alternatively you can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(12 Feb 2024)

SUSPICIOUS PEOPLE

Staffordshire Police have received a report of three suspicious people gaining access to the rear garden of a property on  Widecombe Avenue, Weeping Cross.

The incident happened at approx 02:00AM on Tuesday, 06/02/2024.

The three are described as wearing dark clothing .

If you have seen or heard anything or have any CCTV that could be evidential, can you please call 101 and quote ref  0622/06 FEB.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(8 Feb 2024)

Police are appealing for information after the window of a bar in Stafford was smashed.

At around 7.30pm on 15 December, three people threw a glass bottle through the window of the venue on Crabbery Street, causing it to break.

The suspects are believed to be around 18 years old. One of them was wearing a black coat, a grey hoodie, blue jeans and white trainers. A second was wearing a black coat with the hood up, black tracksuit bottoms and black trainers. The third was dressed in a black coat, black ripped jeans and black trainers with a white sole.

Enquiries to identify those involved are ongoing.

If you have any information that may assist their enquiries, please get in touch.

You can call on 101, quoting incident 693 of 12 December, or message using Live Chat on their website, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(6 Feb 2024)

Suspicious male seen in Baswich and Weeping Cross area

Between the hours of 1 - 2am on Saturday 3rd February, a suspicious male wearing a high visibility vest has been seen walking onto residents private driveways on Witney Road, Stafford. Its unclear if anything untoward has occurred at this time, but Police are asking for the community around this area to check vehicles and properties are secure. 

If anyone wishes to report anything suspicious or can provide smart doorbell or CCTV footage please email lyndsey.brough@staffordshire.police.uk

(4 Feb 2024)

 

Silver Henry Burton bike located in Stone

A silver HENRY BURTON bike has been seized as suspected stolen in the Stone area. If you own a bike of this make and colour, please check your shed/outbuilding to see if one has been stolen as no owner has come forward as of yet. Should you recognise the bike to be yours, please contact PCSO 25565 Megan Rogers via email: Megan.Rogers@staffordshire.police.uk

(2 Feb 2024)

POLICE SURGERY - STAFFORD

Stafford Local Policing Team will be holding a "police surgery" on Friday 2nd February.

2 - 3pm at The Library on Bodmin Avenue/ Lynton Avenue, Baswich.

Please come along if you have any issues or questions .

(1 Feb 2024)

 

Pedal Cycle Security Marking Event

Local officers will be holding a security marking event outside The Co-operative, Wildwood on Saturday 27th January 2024. 

If you or anybody else would like to attend with their pedal cycle to get it registered, please come along. 

 Saturday 27th January 2024

 2pm – 4pm

 Wildwood Co-op, Cannock Road, Stafford, ST17 4RA

Registration is free of charge - for more information please visit the bike register website - https://www.bikeregister.com/

(25 Jan 2024)

Stafford Police while on foot patrols on Monday, were made aware of a criminal damage which had occurred on Church Lane, Stafford on Sunday morning.

Having identified a suspect from CCTV footage, an arrest was made shortly after

Rikki Swift, from Stafford, is charged with criminal damage and will appear in court today (23/01/2024).

(23 Jan 2024)

An Urgent Alert for business owners and people in Stafford Town was issued over the weekend: 

Police were made aware of a distraction theft, where suspects have stolen a mobile phone from over the counter of a local business.

The modus operandi of these offences is that the suspect will attempt to distract somebody behind a counter with questions relating to anything, such as directions or their business. They will then attempt sleight of hand techniques to steal phones or valuables over the counter.

Offenders tend to travel far and are not local.

Please be vigilant if you are a staff member, or business owner. Stafford Police ask that members of public please report any suspicious activity, no matter how insignificant it may seem, as this may be part of a bigger picture.

(23 Jan 2023)

 

Here's a date for your diary, Staffordshire Police are holding an online chat for the Stone area next week.

If you live, or work in Stone or the surrounding area, they will be online to answer your questions from:

6pm to 7:30pm

Thursday 25 January

You can ask your question in advance, or on the night by following this link and we will answer it during the chat: https://orlo.uk/r7XgN

(19 Jan 2024)

 

If you’re planning on travelling anywhere over the next few days please take extra care as the current spell of cold weather is likely to affect the road conditions.

• Allow extra time for your journey

• Avoid sharp braking

• Keep a good distance from the vehicle in front

Remember to take lots of warm clothing too, just in case you have any unexpected issues on your journey.

Stay safe and consider other road users if you’re heading out.

(16 Jan 2024)

 

A further dispersal order has been issued for the A34 Stone road between Trentham and Stone as police continue to crackdown on anti-social behaviour (ASB).

The dispersal order is due to come into force from 6pm on Sunday (14th January ) until 1am on Monday (15th January). The order has been granted for officers and PCSOs to use in the locality on the A34 Stone Road, between the Poachers Cottage, Trentham and the junction of Newcastle Road in Stone.

The order, granted under section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, gives officers the power to disperse anyone for the purpose of or reducing the likelihood of members of the public in the locality being harassed, alarmed, distressed or the occurrence of crime and disorder.

Failing to comply with an order is a criminal offence and police can return anyone under the age of 16 to their home address.

As part of the powers, they can issue the notices for a period of up to 48 hours and anyone found breaching a notice is liable to be arrested and face further action.

There have been reports of ASB in the area recently, involving large numbers of vehicles and people gathering to spectate or participate in illegal road racing between Trentham and Stone.

In addition to the dispersal order, officers have the power to issue Community Protection Notice Warnings (CPNW) under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 that can remain in place for up to 12 months, to any persons present causing ASB, regardless of if they are in a vehicle or out on foot. Anti social behaviour can include but is not limited to, large gatherings of vehicles/people that have an impact on the lives of local residents.

The issuing of a CPNW to an individual is a first stage warning, giving those involved the opportunity to modify their behaviour and make them aware of the detrimental impact their conduct has on the community.

Any breach of the CPNW can result in them then entering the escalation process that can result in a monetary fine of up to £2500.

If you wish to know more about a CPNW please follow this link - https://orlo.uk/AoSYk

Police understand the impact this behaviour can have on people living in the area, and are continuing to work with partner agencies to tackle issues reported by our communities and encourage anyone with any concerns or information to contact Staffordshire Police by reporting online at - https://orlo.uk/6h2aR or by calling 101.

In an emergency please dial 999

(15 Jan 2024)

Staffordshire Police have arrested more than 150 people during their Christmas crackdown on drink and drug driving.

The operation, which ran from 1 December to 1 January, led to 152 arrests relating to intoxication behind the wheel across Staffordshire.

This came after officers conducted 429 roadside breath tests, with 117 positive results. A further 38 motorists provided positive drug wipes.

Chief Superintendent Paul Talbot said: "Staffordshire Police continues to invest in proactive units utilising their specialist skills to identify and apprehend those people committing crime or putting other road users at risk through their reckless behaviour.

"These results demonstrate both the ability and importance of our proactive policing activity, enforcing the law and making our roads a safer place on which to travel.

"Operation Lightning is continuing throughout 2024, with the aim of making Staffordshire roads safer for all and challenging those who cause harm to our communities.

"So please be aware that our work continues and those who choose to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be brought to justice”.

Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Ben Adams is Co-Chair of the Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership. He said: “Last year, 42 people sadly lost their lives on our roads, with drink or drug driving thought to be a factor in a number of fatal road collisions.

“This operation saw officers from the Roads Policing Unit taking a proactive approach to tackling this issue, keeping roads across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent safer by targeting those who choose to break the law.”

If you are found to be over the drink-drive limit and/or driving while impaired by drugs, you can expect to receive:

• a criminal record

• a maximum penalty of six months in prison

• an unlimited fine

• an automatic driving ban of at least one year (three years if you have been convicted twice in 10 years)

Other problems you may face include:

• an endorsement on your driving licence for 11 years

• an increased insurance premium

• if you drive for work, your employer will see your conviction on your licence

• trouble travelling to countries like the USA

If you kill someone whilst driving under the influence of drink or drugs, the maximum penalty is life imprisonment.

For more information about the risks and consequences of drink and drug driving, please visit: https://orlo.uk/HaCba

(10 Jan 2024)

 

Historically police have received a number of reported thefts or attempted thefts which have involved car owners leaving their vehicles unattended with the engine running while it defrosts.

With the adverse weather expected to continue over the coming days, please do not leave your cars unattended whilst the windows defrost and the interior heats up. It can take a matter of seconds for a thief to jump into your vehicle and make off!

It really does happen! So please don't make yourself an easy target for opportunist thieves

(8 Jan 2024)

 

BIKE THEFT

Following a further bike theft, on the 29th of December 2024, police have arrested and charg𝖾d another person for theft of a bicycle on Friday 5 January. 

They received a report that a bike had been stolen from the foyer of a supermarket in town.

Danny Roper, 34, from Stafford is charg𝖾d with theft of a bike and has been bailed to appear at court next month.

(8 Jan 2024)

BIKE THEFT 

Following a report on the 19th of December police have charg𝖾d a man for theft of a bicycle.

Steven Dawkins, from Stafford, is charg𝖾d with the theft and has been denied bail to appear in court.

Police investigate every report of theft and where possible and arrest those responsible. They rely on your reports and they encourage the public to report crime and other suspicious behaviour when it happens.

Bicycle theft is rife at the moment and you can help prevent this by locking your bike with a high quality lock (to prevent thieves using tools to break them) every time you stop, no matter how short your stop is.

(8 Jan 2024)

 

During the evening of Thursday 4 January 2024, officers from #Shift4 Stafford Response team, seized a vehicle for no insurance, in Stafford. The vehicle has been recovered and the driver had a cold walk home! Having valid insurance, MOT and road tax are mandatory to all road users in the UK. If you want to use it, don't lose it.  

(5 Jan 2024)

Appeal for information

Police have located this bike near to an address in Stafford which they suspect could be stolen, If you believe that the bike could be yours, please contact PC 27442 Poole on 101 or email; matthew.poole@staffordshire.police.uk quoting ref; 21230179112.

(4 Jan 2023)

 

A man has been arrested following the death of a woman in Stafford.

Police were called to Orchard Street, just after 11.15pm on Friday 29 December 2023, following reports that a 77-year-old woman had sadly been found dead inside a property.

Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by officers.

A 78-year-old man, from the Stafford area, has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He has been released under investigation while inquiries continue.

Anyone with information should contact 101 quoting incident number 779 of 29 December, or message using Live Chat on their website.  https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(2 Jan 2024)

 

Please be aware of doorstep traders as Stafford Police have been made aware of a potential scam that occurred in the Meadowcroft Park area of Stafford where a resident was asked to pay more than £400 for 45 minutes gardening maintenance work.

The tradesperson has been described as male, medium build, 30 to 35 years old, 5'8 - 5'10 tall, English accent, brown or ginger hair with a beard and moustache. He was dressed in green tree surgeon workwear, green trousers with orange markings, green baseball cap and driving a Ford Transit van or Ford Transit flatbed.

Please warn any vulnerable relatives or neighbours about employing doorstep traders. To make sure you are paying a reasonable price for work they always recommend you contact at least three companies to ask for quotes when you are considering any work.

 If someone you don’t know approaches your property always STOP, CHAIN, CHECK:

 STOP – If you are not expecting anybody and they don’t have an appointment, don’t let them in.

CHAIN - Use your door chain or bar before opening the door

CHECK – Ask to see ID and double check this.

 If you have any concerns about doorstep callers please contact the police by calling 101 or report this through LiveChat on their website: https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

 In an emergency always call 999.

(28 Dec 2023)

 

Stafford Police are seeing an increase of burglaries in Stafford whereby offenders are targeting properties specifically for jewellery. 

Please be extra vigilant and don't fall victim to cold callers. Going door to door looking to buy gold is usual practice for offenders and anyone paying interest in their offers may place themselves as a target for a future burglary. If you do find yourself in this situation please do not engage, close your door and call 999. Try and remember a description, direction they have left in and if there are any unknown vehicles in the street. 

Advice 

• Ensure all doors and windows are locked when you go out.
• Consider installing security alarm or cameras.
• Keep valuables out of sight.
• Answer the door with caution , use a chain if you have one.
• Outdoor lighting can put offenders off.

If you see anything suspicious please call on 101, Online chat or in an emergency call 999.

(23 Dec 2023)

 

#drinkORdrive this Christmas

This festive period Staffordshire Police are encouraging drivers to avoid drinking anything alcoholic if they’re planning to drive.

Their campaign, which runs from Wednesday 1st December to News Year's Day, highlights the ways in which you can avoid drink driving during the party season by planning ahead. 

To help keep every road user safe, they will be conducting random roadside breathalyser tests to check that drivers aren’t exceeding the alcohol limits.

They do these checks throughout the year, but they find some people still take the risk to drink drive even though drink drive laws have been in place since the 1960s.

Alcohol affects everyone differently so you’re always safest to drive alcohol and drug free. Please urge your friends and family to make the safest choice to #drinkORdrive this festive season.

You may think that having one or two drinks doesn’t matter but even a small amount of alcohol can affect your ability to drive safely so the best advice is to make alternative travel arrangements or avoid alcohol completely if you are driving.

Alcohol makes your reactions much slower and makes processing information more difficult, so when driving this can impact on decision making and reactions times, putting you, your passengers and other road users at risk.

If you’re planning a night out, remember to book your taxi, organise your lift or look up bus and train times before you leave for your night out. If you’ve had a big night out you may still be over the limit the next day, so you’re best to make alternative travel arrangements if you need to go somewhere first thing.

The #drinkORdrive campaign supports on-going work as part of Operation Lightning, which aims to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on the roads of Staffordshire and to disrupt and deter criminals from using the road network. Officers from the roads policing unit will be working with partners including Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership

If you have any information about people who are drink or drug driving, you can report them to the police (with as much information as possible) so they can be investigated. You can report them online, by direct messaging on Facebook or Twitter, or by calling 101. Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. If there is an immediate risk to the public always call 999.

(18 Dec 2023)

 

Staffordshire Police have received several reports involving theft from vans, overnight on Thursday 14th December 2023. One van was targeted at Weeping Cross Stafford and another van was targeted on Silkmore Lane, Stafford.

The persons involved gained entry into the vehicle and stole large quantity of tools, including Makita Branded drill, circular saw, nail gun and various other tools.

If you have any CCTV that may be linked or have any further information that may assist the investigation please contact Staffordshire Police, either by calling 101 or visit the live chat on the Staffordshire Police website. www.staffordshire.police.uk 

See below crime prevention advice:

Theft from Vans

Outsmart potential thieves, see below crime prevention advice:

Remove your tools from your van overnight where possible.

Mark your tools with a UV pen, alternatively get them etched or engraved.

Take a photo of any vehicle items and their serial numbers. This will help the Police identify your tools of they are stolen.

Upgrade or fit additional locks to your van.

Consider fitting a lockable cage inside your van to secure your tools if you can’t remove them.

Fitting a pedal box can stop thieves driving your van away.

Patrols will be actively patrolling around these areas and surrounding areas. If a crime is in progress or a life is in danger please contact Staffordshire Police by calling 999.

(16 Dec 2023)

 

A man has been charged after two teenage boys were stabbed. Joshua Smart, 18, from Wolverhampton, appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Monday (December 11) charged with two counts of wounding with intent.

It comes following reports that two people had been stabbed inside an address in Marlborough Avenue, Stafford, late on Saturday (December 9). Two 17-year-old boys went to the Royal Stoke University Hospital . Police have confirmed neither of their injuries are life-threatening.

Smart has been released on conditional police bail with strict conditions ahead of his appearance at Stafford Crown Court on January 8.

A West Midlands Ambulance spokesman said: “We were called at just before 11pm on Saturday to reports of a stabbing on Marlborough Avenue, in Stafford. One ambulance, two paramedic officers and a MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic attended the scene.

"Upon arrival we found a teenage male with serious injuries that were not believed to be life threatening. He received advanced trauma care at the scene and was conveyed to hospital for further treatment.”

To report crime call 101 for non urgent matters, or online via the website LiveChat www.staffordshire.police.uk 

If you prefer, call Crimestoppers anonymously, on FREEPHONE  0800 555 111.

For an emergency and if a crime is in progress always call 999.

(14 Dec 2023)

 

Staffordshire Police have received several calls in the last few days regarding road traffic accidents where vehicles have struck deer.

These incidents have been on the same stretch of road .

Police are advising when driving over the chase to take extra care, especially when using the A34 Cannock Road near Brocton.

More help and advice here, Deer Vehicle Collisions

(12 Dec 2023)

Male Arrested and charged in Stafford

On Wednesday 6th December, officers from Stafford Borough Local Policing team proactively located and arrested a man, wanted by Police for offences including Kidnap. He was seen by CCTV in Stafford Town Centre and officers apprehended him and was arrested on South Walls, Stafford.  

Josh Lisle, aged 30 from the Stafford area appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre and has been remanded, awaiting trial. 

Lisle has been charged with attempted robbery, a further robbery, kidnap, assault and theft. 

(11 Dec 2023)

 

Police are appealing for information to help track down a missing e-bike in Stafford.

Officers think it was last seen near to Tollgate Industrial Estate on Beaconside, heading towards the junction with Weston Road, on the evening of Monday (20 November).

The e-bike is the same model as the one pictured but has a smaller logo.

If you think you’ve seen it or you know where it could be, get in touch by emailing Robert.Booth@staffordshire.police.uk

(8 Dec 2023)

 

Stafford Police are appealing for witnesses after a fatal collision in Stafford Town Centre.

They were called just before midday (Wednesday 6th December) to reports of a serious collision involving a pedestrian and a bus, on Bridge Street.

Officers went to the scene with firefighters from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Sadly, the pedestrian, a man in his 80's, died at the scene. His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Police are keen to speak to anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage from the area, or if anyone has any information or witnessed the collision.

Call 101, quoting incident number 293 of 6th December or message using the Live Chat option on their website. You can also get in touch with collision investigators directly by emailing ciu@staffordshire.police.uk

(6 Dec 2023)

 

The family of a man who was found dead in Stafford have paid tribute to him.

Police were called to an address on Oberton Gardens at 9.15pm on 21 November following concerns for a man. Sadly, Lee Harrison, 42, from Stafford, was pronounced dead by paramedics at the scene.

A 31-year-old man, from Stafford, was arrested on suspicion of murder and later released on conditional police bail while the investigation continues.

In a tribute, Lee’s family said ‘he touched so many people’s hearts.’

“We have been contacted by so many friends who remember Lee as we do, which has been comforting at this overwhelming time.”

Detective Inspector Ian Fitzgerald said: “I can’t imagine what Lee’s family are feeling right now. My thoughts and condolences are very much with them as they continue to come to terms with their tragic loss. 

“Our investigation is very much ongoing and I’d ask people not to speculate about what happened. I’d like to thank those who have already come forward with information and those who have engaged with officers in the area.”

Anyone who hasn’t contacted the police who might be able to help with any information is  urged to get in touch  by using the Major Incident Public Portal here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/STAFFS23K19-PO1

If you prefer to report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Lee Harrison, 42, was found dead at an address in Stafford

(6  Dec 2023)

 

Police have received a report of an attempted burglary at an address in Knowle Road, Stafford.

Suspects have attempted to access a property by using a tool or implement, to prize open the window/doors, to gain entry. This is believed to have occurred during the evening of the 21st November, however was only discovered recently when damage has been found to a window frame.

Anyone with information or can provide CCTV footage of anyone acting suspicious in this area, please call ; Staffordshire Police on 101 and quote ref; 383 05/12/2023.

(5 Dec 2023)

 

The family of a woman who was found dead in Stafford have paid tribute to her.

Police were called to an address on Wolverhampton Road at 1.20pm on Monday (27 November) to reports a woman’s body had been found.

Sadly, Milica Zilic, 28, was pronounced dead by paramedics.

Her family continue to be supported by specially-trained officers at the traumatic time.

Dale Crook, 33, from Stafford, has been charged with murder. He has been remanded ahead of his next appearance at Stafford Crown Court on Monday (5 December).

In a tribute to Milica, her family said: “One year ago, we said goodbye to our dear Mili not knowing that it will be the last time we will see her. She was supposed to be going to better life, to pursue her happiness and dreams, but life had different plans for her.

“We can only hope that wherever she is now, she is good, she is carefree and that she finally found her peace.

We will always remember you our dear Mili.”

Detective Inspector Ian Fitzgerald said: “My thoughts and condolences are still very much with Milica’s family at this traumatic time. I can’t imagine the pain and suffering they have been feeling.

“I’d ask people not to speculate about what happened whilst our investigation is ongoing. I’d like to thank everyone who has been in touch with information already and I’d ask anyone with any information, which hasn’t done so already, to get in touch with us.”

Police have created an online portal where people can leave information and any CCTV, smart doorbell or dashcam footage that they may have. You can access the Major Incident Public Portal here: https://orlo.uk/2824u

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Milica Zilic, 28, was found dead at an address in Stafford

(5 Dec 2023)

 

Be Secure, don't make it easy for thieves

If you’re planning on going out to do some Christmas shopping or start those festive family visits, be sure to…

Lock your windows and doors before going out

Keep all valuables like jewellery, electronics and other high value items out of sight.

Consider installing a security alarm, CCTV or outdoor lights as these often act as a deterrent

Store keys such as another set of house keys or car keys away from windows, doors and letterboxes to deter thieves from ‘fishing’

Visit the website for more safety advice: https://orlo.uk/crGwT

If you see any suspicious activity or you need to make a report, call 101 or  LiveChat here, 

www.staffordshire.police.uk

If it’s an emergency, always dial 999.

(4 Dec 2023)

 

A man from Stafford has been charged in connection with the death of a woman, who was found dead at a flat in Stafford. 

Dale Crook, aged 33 from Stafford, has been charged with murder and appeared on Saturday morning (2nd December) at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre. For further details please follow the link https://orlo.uk/rqQ9h

An online portal has been set up for anyone who has information relating to this incident or has any CCTV, smart doorbell or dashcam footage, that could assist Staffordshire Police. You can access the Major Incident Public Portal here; https://mipp.police.uk/operation/STAFFS23K20-PO1

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(4 Dec 2023)

 

Police have arrested a man after a woman’s body was found inside a flat in Stafford.

They were called to Wolverhampton Road at 1.20pm on Monday afternoon (27 November), to reports a woman’s body had been found. She was pronounced dead by paramedics.

A 33-year-old man, from Stafford, has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Specially-trained officers are supporting the woman’s family.

Stafford Police have created an online portal where people can leave information and any CCTV, smart doorbell or dashcam footage that they may have to help with this investigation. You can access the Major Incident Public Portal here:

https://orlo.uk/VQS7P

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(29 Nov 2023)

 

Distraction Theft - Stafford Town Centre

Police responded to an incident of distraction theft in Stafford Town Centre today, 28th November 2023, at around 11:15. 

This was a report where a female has entered a beauty salon on Martin Street, and began to ask lots of questions before taking a mobile phone from under a pillow where a client was, the female was confronted and returned the phone. Another phone was also taken from the location but was not noticed until later. 

The female is described as - Asian, wearing a green headscarf and long dark clothing. 

The female was seen to walk down Mill Street towards Tenterbanks, Stafford.

If you have any information that may be linked please contact Staffordshire Police, either by calling 101 or via the Live Chat option on the Staffordshire Police website,  www.staffordshire.police.uk

(28 Nov 2023)

 

A man has been charged following an incident where two men were threatened in Stafford.

Devonte Folkes, 18, from Stafford, has been charged with affray, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and possessing cannabis.

It comes after police were called to Greengate Street in the early hours of Sunday 22 October following reports of two men being threatened.

No one was injured.

Stafford Police have been speaking to witnesses about what happened and also issued an appeal for any information.

Folkes is due to appear at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on 12 December.

(28 Nov 2023)

 

Staffordshire Police have arrested a man and busted a suspected chop-shop used to dismantle stolen cars in a proactive operation in Stafford.

Officers unearthed more than £250,000's worth of stolen cars after finding it in Haughton, Stafford. They have been investigating recent car thefts and actioning intelligence leads alongside colleagues at West Midlands Police. 

At this point, they suspect five of the cars were stolen from the West Midlands area and one stolen from Staffordshire. Also found at the location were a number of dismantled Land Rovers, Range Rovers, a Jaguar and a Ford transit van.

A 36 year old male, from Telford, was arrested for handling stolen items and has since been released on conditional police bail as investigations continue and enquiries are made with victims. 

Operation Bormus is a dedicated team across the force who target criminals committing these vehicle thefts around Staffordshire, and continue to stop those responsible and bring them to justice. 

Police advise taking extra security measures to protect your vehicles to reduce the risks of criminal gangs targeting vehicles or high performance, high powered models. For important tips on how you can do this, visit their website here; Crime prevention advice | Staffordshire Police

(26 Nov2023)

 

A 31 year old man has been released on conditional bail as police continue to investigate the death of a man in Stafford.

Stafford Police were called to an address on Oberton Gardens at 9.15pm on Tuesday 21th November following concerns for a man. Sadly, he was later pronounced dead at the scene.  They arrested a man from Stafford a short time later and has since been released on police bail. 

Police said, "Our thoughts are with mans family at this sad and difficult time. Specialist officers are continuing to support the family, whilst the investigation continues. We understand the concern this has caused in the local community and the speculation which has followed. The investigation is very much ongoing and ask people not to speculate. We have spoken to a number of people as part of this investigation and continue to carry out enquiries". 

(26 Nov2023)

 

Detectives have been granted extra time to question a suspect following the death of a man in Stafford.

Police were called to an address on Oberton Gardens at 9.15pm on Tuesday (21 November) following concerns for a man. Sadly, he was later pronounced dead at the scene.

His family continue to be supported by specially-trained officers at this traumatic time.

A 31-year-old man, from Stafford, was arrested the same day on suspicion of murder. He continues to be questioned about what happened in custody.

Officers have been speaking to people in the area and carrying out door-to-door enquiries to find out more and reassure the local community. They would like to thank those who have already come forward.

A cordon is still in place at the address whilst enquiries continue.

Anyone with any information which could help with this investigation is asked to get in touch by using the Major Incident Public Portal here: 

https://mipp.police.uk/operation/STAFFS23K19-PO1

If you prefer to report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(23 Nov 2023)

 

Police are investigating following the death of a man in Stafford.
They were called to Oberton Gardens at 9.15pm last night, Tuesday (21 November) following concerns for a man. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.
A 31-year-old man, from Stafford, has been arrested on suspicion of murder.
If you have any information that could help police with their investigation, including CCTV, smart doorbell or dashcam footage, get in touch using the Major Incident Public Portal here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/STAFFS23K19-PO1
To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

(22 Nov 2023)

 

Stolen Quadbike - Tittensor

Police are appealing for information after the theft of a Quad Bike from an outbuilding on Chase Lane, Tittensor.

Unknown offenders have removed and stolen a 150cc Eaton Agricultural Green Quad bike between 6pm on Saturday 18th November and 12pm on Sunday 19th November.

If you have any information that may assist in locating the Quad bike, or help ascertain who may be responsible, please can you contact on 101 or via the website,  www.staffordshire.police.uk quoting reference number 390 of 19th November 2023.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555 111

(21 Nov 2023)

Great Bridgeford – Suspicious incident

On Monday evening (20 November 2023) at around 1945hrs, police were called to an incident in Cherry Tree Close, Great Bridgeford where a resident had reported an person has entered their property via their front door, and have then left after being disturbed by dogs barking in the property.

At this stage the identity of the individual is not known, therefore Stafford Police are asking for anybody in the local area who may of seen anything suspicious or has any CCTV locally to please get in touch in order to assist with enquiries.

You can contact on 101 or via the website,  www.staffordshire.police.uk  quoting incident 627 of the 20th November 2023.

The following advice can help protect you from becoming a victim:

Lock all doors (even if you’re at home)

Keep your car keys out of sight

A well-lit home can give the impression that someone is in

If you have a house alarm, use it

Don’t leave valuables on show

(21 Nov 2023)

 

Staffordshire Police have been made aware of a man who has entered various businesses within Stafford, Stone and other areas of Staffordshire. 

This has happened over Thursday and Friday 16th/17th November 2023 in Stafford, Mill Street and Oulton Road, Stone. Police have also been made aware by these victims that other businesses in the area may have also been targeted. 

A man seen in Stafford believed to be in his late 20's, Medium build, approx. 5"8 tall, wearing mustard coloured jumper and trousers, white trainers, blue quilted jacket with hood, slight beard/facial hair with a red, white in a Union Flag design woolly hat. He spoke with a foreign accent. 

A man has been seen going in to these locations and make a distraction, either by talking and using papers to conceal or by ensuring no one is nearby and then going on to steal or attempt to steal mobile phones from behind the counters. 

Investigations are ongoing, if you have any information that may assist please contact Staffordshire Police, either by calling 101 (Police reference - 21230160432) or contact via www.staffordshire.police.uk using Live Chat.

Store managers are asked to please remind staff to keep their phone secure and out of sight, if possible, and to be alert to customers who may use similar distraction tactics. If you have to work alone after closing hours, please be mindful of access into the premise, lock doors if you are able and keep them locked, don't be afraid to tell someone you are closed and to come back another time. If you are in immediate danger contact police on 999. 

(19 Nov 2023)

Have you seen missing 43-year-old Philip?

He went missing from the Stafford area on Thursday afternoon (16 November 2023) and police becoming increasingly concerned for his welfare.

Phillip is white with brown hair and a beard. He was last seen wearing beige Trousers, an orange jacket, a blue t-Shirt and trainers.

If you spot him please do not approach him. Call 999 immediately quoting incident 346 of 16/11.

(17 Nov 2023)

Appeal for information- Town centre robbery

On Monday 13th November, shortly after 5pm....Two young males wearing face coverings approached a member of the public, near to an alleyway between Tesco Extra and Friars Terrace in Stafford. The suspects have threatened the victim with a bladed article and stole the victims bike. The bike is described as a dark coloured BMX style bike, with larger than usual tyres and distinctive coloured handlebars. 

Local officers are asking anyone with information to please contact on 101 quoting ref; 514 13/11. If anyone around the area of Friars Road, Newport Road or Tescos carpark, during this time, who may have witnessed the incident or recall anything suspicious in the alleyway, please report it to Staffordshire Police. Members of the public can also contact via the website, www.staffordshire.police.uk  or Stafford Borough Police social media pages. 

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously, on FREEPHONE 0800 555 1111

(14 Nov 2023)

 

Cold callers and Door to Door sales

Stafford Police have received a call from a member of public, who has made them aware that they have had a male knock at the door, carrying a bag of items to sell. The male has then said he was an ex-offender and after being told no - they have been subjected to verbal abuse by the seller. 

Police are increasing patrols in the are to identify the male, he has been described as White male, around 25 years old with a strong accent.

They advise, whenever you get an unexpected knock on the door, please check to see who is on the other side of your door before opening it. Either look through a side window, look through a spy hole, or simply ask out loud who it is. If you do not know them, establish who they are and what they are there for, before you open the door. Please remember if the cold caller sales are unsuccessful, they are unlikely to return in future. If you do experience any verbal abuse and feel intimidated, please call 101 and report what was said, and a description of the person concerned.

(11 Nov 2023)

Incident in Greengate Street

Stafford Police are appealing for information following an incident where two men threatened a group of people in Stafford.

It happened at about 2am on Saturday 22 October on Greengate Street. The victims were walking along the street when the two suspects approached them.

A brief exchange took place. The suspects chased the victims who ran away and got to a place of safety. No one was injured.

Both suspects were seen leaving the area in the direction of Tipping Street.

Officers have been speaking to people in the area at the time and have been looking through CCTV to find out more about what happened.

They want to speak to the two men pictured below in connection with the incident. One of them is described as black and was wearing a black cap, a red and dark coloured jacket, grey bottoms and white and blue trainers. The second one was wearing a grey tracksuit with a hood up, a blue Gillet and grey and white trainers.

If you know them or you have any information, call on 101, quoting incident 139 of 22 October, or message using Live Chat on the website, www.staffordshire.police.uk 

If you prefer to report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 11

 (11 Nov 2023)

Police have received some harrowing reports from within the farming community around Stafford, of livestock being killed and harvested for meat. Staffordshire Police and Rural crime officers are requesting anyone with information to please contact on 101 or you can contact via the Staffordshire Police website www.staffordshire.police.uk 

The slaughtering of animals by these methods are deemed as inhumane, causing unnecessary suffering to the animal and distress to the herd. Rural crime can have a profound impact on local people, businesses and communities and financial ramifications for the farmers. Meat sourced in this way could pose health and safety concerns within the community, if consumed.

(10 Nov 2023)

Keeping your shed or garage safe and secure

Many people don’t secure their shed or garage in the same way they do their homes - often using an easy-to-break lock or padlock to protect valuable contents such as a car, bike or lawnmower.

An opportunistic burglar will try a shed or garage first because they can find the tools they need to break into the main house.

Shed and outbuilding security: first steps

First off, check that your insurance covers the contents of your shed or outbuildings from theft

Think like a thief

Take a look at your shed and consider how you would break in. It’s worth having a good padlock on the door with no exposed screws. Pay attention to hinges, as these are sometimes easily removable. If you have windows then these could be vulnerable unless they’re secured with wire mesh or grills. And keep it locked at all times.

Alarm it

Consider a battery-operated shed alarm. They look low key but they respond to movement or door contact with an extremely loud siren.

Lock it, hide it or mark it

Don’t give them the opportunity or the tools to commit a crime. Lock everything away securely. Tools can be locked inside a locker or box or secured with a chain.

Secure your bike to the ground or a lockable stand within a locked shed or garage. Visit Sold Secure to search for ground anchors and other locks designed to fix to floors and walls.

It’s always worth draping an old sheet or blanket over the top of mowers or bikes to keep them covered from view.

Although it might sound like stating the obvious, never leave your garage or shed door unlocked if you’re not around.

Property marking your items is advisable and some tools can be painted with your name or postcode. Forensic marking is also an option. 

The top five most common items stolen from sheds

1. Bikes
2. Mowers
3. Sports equipment
4. Power tools
5. Garden tools

For more advice https://www.police.uk/pu/advice-information/

(9 Nov 2023)

 

The Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership are starting work this week to upgrade speed cameras across the county.

The initial phase will affect 20 sites, and will take several weeks to complete.

The new technology will use a digitally applied line on the image to check the speed of a vehicle, rather than using markings on the road.

You can read more here: https://orlo.uk/bSQiD

(7 Nov 2023)

 

A man has been charged after police found more than 500 cannabis plants at an address in South Staffordshire.

Trung Nguyen, 55, from Wheaton Aston, has been charged with producing cannabis.

He is due to appear at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Friday 3 November 2023.

It comes after police carried out a drugs warrant in South Staffordshire on Wednesday 1 November and found 500 cannabis plants inside.

To read more about how you can spot the signs of cannabis cultivation in your area, visit: Cannabis farms | Staffordshire Police

(6 Nov 2023)

 

Have you seen this bike?

It has been stolen in the past 7 days and is a modified 700ZX Hardtail Mountain Bike.

If you have any details to pass contact 101 quoting 21230152780 or via the website , www.staffordshire.police.uk

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 1111

(3 Nov 2023)

 

A football fan has been convicted of racially abusing TV pundit Rio Ferdinand at a Premier League game at Molineux.

Jamie Arnold hurled racist gestures at the former England defender during the Wolves and Manchester United fixture in May 2021.

The 33-year-old from Stone, Staffordshire, was ejected by stewards and then promptly arrested by officers.

A thorough investigation led by the dedicated football hate crime officer PC Stuart Ward uncovered clear CCTV and strong witness evidence to support the case.

However, Arnold denied a charge of racially aggravated public order and went on trial before Wolverhampton Crown Court this week.

He was found guilty after a jury came back with a unanimous verdict and will be sentenced on 8 December.

The fixture was the first with fans at Molineux following the COVID pandemic.

Arnold was previously banned from games for three years after being found guilty of hurling homophobic abuse and making gestures which mimicked disability during the same game. He was also ordered to pay almost £900 in fines and court costs.

PC Ward - who was appointed the UK's first dedicated hate crime officer within a football unit - said: "Abusing anyone for the colour of their skin is disgusting and can never, ever be condoned.

"Arnold is old enough to know such appalling behaviour is inexcusable and certainly won't be tolerated.

"I know from personal experience how being a victim of racism hurts while offenders risk their own aspirations through getting a criminal record.

"I would like to thank Rio for his assistance in this investigation. Through his support we’ve ensured a man has this conviction to his name."

Anyone who has been a victim of a football-related hate crime, or has information about an offence, can contact via the Live Chat service on the website www.staffordshire.police.uk or by calling 101.

(2 Nov 2023)

Police are appealing for information after a Grey Audi S3 on a private plate starting with 'U' was stolen from the driveway of a residential property on Knightley Road, Gnosall at approximately 8.15pm during the evening of Monday 30th October 2023.

Unknown persons have forced entry to the premises and taken the vehicle keys, and have proceeded to then drive away from the location in the Grey Audi S3

If you witnessed anything suspicious , have any CCTV in the local area, or have any information that may assist in locating the vehicle or identifying who may be responsible, please can you contact on 101 or via the website , www.staffordshire.police.uk  and quote reference number 600 of the 30th October 2023

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 1111

(31 Oct 2023)

Burglary Bridle Road, Stafford

Between 3:30pm on Friday 27 October and Saturday 28 October 2023 at 2:50pm, entry had been gained to rear garden on Bridle Road. The conservatory windows have been forced and entry gained, items stolen from within. Also the metal shed has had the padlock removed and electric bike has been stolen.

If you can help our enquiries please contact  via 101 or online  via their website LiveChat www.staffordshire.police.uk and quote crime reference 21230151366.

If you prefer to call anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(30 Oct 2023)

Halloween Safety tips

We want you to enjoy Halloween, but remember, not everyone wants to take part!

Here's a few things to remember when you're out this Halloween.

• If you’re going trick or treating, make sure you go with an adult and your parent or carer knows where you’re going and when to expect you back.
• Don’t knock if there’s a sign saying ‘No trick or treat here.’
• Be careful not to frighten elderly or vulnerable people.
• Don’t go trick or treating alone - stay with your group.
• Only visit areas where there are streetlights.
• Don’t throw eggs and flour.
• Be careful crossing roads in the dark.

Have a great time, stay safe and look out for each other. If you or someone you know is in danger call 999.

Residents Advice

• If you do not want trick or treaters download the ‘No Trick or Treat’ sign and place this in your window.
• If you witness anti-social behaviour, call 101. If you witness a crime in progress, call 999
• You can also make a report via LiveChat: Home | Staffordshire Police
• Don’t open the door if you don’t want trick or treaters.

(28 Oct 2023)

It can be hard to tell if a relative, friend, neighbour or colleague is involved with a loan shark 

We are supporting Stop Loan Sharks England to share the common signs that someone might be a loan shark.

Look out for a loan with no paperwork, extortionate interest rates, use of bank cards as security or threats of

violence.

Contact #StopLoanSharksEngland on 0300 555 2222 for help and support.

(27 Oct 2023)

 

Prepare for Halloween and download the ‘no trick or treat' sign if required.

With Halloween creeping up, police understand that some households would prefer not to take part, so if this is the case, you can alert others to this and avoid anyone knocking your door by displaying a sign in your window. To make this easier, we’ve attached a ‘no trick or treat’ sign to this message so you can download and print at home and then pop near your front door. If you’re aware of any elderly and vulnerable neighbours who would benefit from a sign, please share this with them. If you do experience any anti-social behaviour over Halloween, you can report it to the police via their website LiveChat www.staffordshire.police.uk or by calling 101. Attachments - SP-Halloween-2023-Digital.pdf

(26 Oct 2023)

Police have released CCTV of a man they wish to speak to following an assault in Stone.

Police were called to High Street, Stone, just after 10pm on Saturday 14 October 2023 after a man was assaulted.

The man, in his 20s, sustained minor facial injuries and was taken to hospital by a relative for precautionary checks.  

The suspect is described as white, of a slim build, in his 30s, around 5ft 8ins tall and was seen wearing a black polo with a thin white stripe and dark trousers.

If you have any information that could help with enquiries, call on 101, quoting incident 725 of 14 October, or message using Live Chat on their website – www.staffordshire.police.uk

If you prefer to call anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(26 Oct 2023)

Yesterday (Monday 23 October 2023), Police arrested a man following an incident in Stafford.

During the evening of Sunday 22 October2023, they were called to a home after a man forced his way inside. He refused to leave and was spoken to by specially-trained negotiators after he barricaded himself inside.

Colleagues from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service were then called after smoke was seen coming from the building. Paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service also went to the scene.

Shortly after 9.30am on Monday morning, they arrested a 41-year-old man, from Tamworth, on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

Officers stayed at the scene during the afternoon to speak to witnesses, review footage of the area and carry out enquiries to find out more about what happened and reassure the local community.

No one was injured and the occupiers of the home continue to be supported by officers.

Stafford Police would like to thank those who were in the area at the time for their patience and understanding following a period of disruption.

If you have any information which could help with this investigation, get in touch by calling 101, quoting incident 169 of 22 October, or by messaging using Live Chat on their website,  https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/  

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(24 Oct 2023)

Wildlife Crime - Badgers

Police have recently been made aware of an incident where an unknown person(s) has blocked the entrances and exits to an active badger sett. The sett is in a part of the wooded area off Chepstow Drive, Wildwood. It was a considerably large badger sett that was clearly active at the time of the act. If anyone has any information that could assist in the investigation please contact : heather.fearnall@staffordshire.police.uk 

The blocking of a badger sett is a serious problem as it can potentially result in the death of a badger or badgers.

THE LEGISLATION 

Badgers are a highly protected animal under Protection of Badgers Act 1992

It illegal to damage, destroy, obstruct or cause a dog to enter a badger sett : or disturbing a badger when it is occupying a badger sett - these particular two acts are covered by Section 3(e) of the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. 

The list of offences is not exclusive to the above and if you wish to find out more please visit www.badgertrust.org.uk 

(24 Oct 2023)

Police need your help in finding 41-year-old Ryan.

Ryan was last seen in Stafford at around 7:30am this morning (Sunday 22 October 2023). Ryan is described as a white male, 6ft3ins, large build, a bald head and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black t-shirt with a picture of a guitar, blue jeans and black trainers. If you have seen Ryan or know of his whereabouts, do not approach him and call 999 immediately quoting incident number 169 of 22 October.

(23 Oct 2023)

Staffordshire Police have received two reports of attempted burglaries overnight on Thursday/Friday 19/20 October 2023.

The first attempt was at a property on The Uplands, Great Haywood at approx 01:05am 20/10/2023  (REF 0027/20OCT)

The second attempt was at a property on Elm Close, Great Haywood at approx 03:25am 20/10/2023  (REF 0063/20OCT)

Entry has not been gained at either property.

If anyone has seen or heard anything suspicious can they please call 101 and quote the ref relevant to the address, or alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(21 Oct 2023)

 

 

Halloween safety tips

Trick or treating advice

Staffordshire Police want you to enjoy Halloween, but remember, not everyone wants to take part!

Here's a few things to remember when you're out this Halloween.

• If you’re going trick or treating, make sure you go with an adult and your parent or carer knows where you’re going and when to expect you back.
• Don’t knock if there’s a sign saying ‘No trick or treat here.’
• Be careful not to frighten elderly or vulnerable people.
• Don’t go trick or treating alone - stay with your group.
• Only visit areas where there are streetlights.
• Don’t throw eggs and flour.
• Be careful crossing roads in the dark.

Have a great time, stay safe and look out for each other. If you or someone you know is in danger call 999.

Residents Advice

• If you do not want trick or treaters download the ‘No Trick or Treat’ sign and place this in your window.
• If you witness anti-social behaviour, call 101. If you witness a crime in progress, call 999
• You can also make a report via LiveChat: Home | Staffordshire Police
• Don’t open the door if you don’t want trick or treaters.

(19 OCT 2023)

Five teenage boys have been charged after MacBooks and tablets, worth more than £8,000, were stolen from a store in Stoke-on-Trent and found in a car in Stafford.

Four boys, who cannot be named for legal reasons, aged 14, 15, 16 and 17, and all from Birmingham, have been charged with theft from a shop.

Another boy, aged 16, from Birmingham, has been charged with theft from a shop, using a motor vehicle on the road without insurance and driving without a licence.

It comes following a theft at a store at a retail park in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, on Monday 16 October 2023.

They were all due to appear at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre today (Tuesday 17 October).

(17 OCT 2023)

YARNFIELD - Suspicious Incident

Did you witness anything suspicious in the village of Yarnfield between 0430hrs and 0500hrs on Tuesday 17 October 2023?

A male has been seen in the area with a torch paying attention to a property and then remained outside for a period of time, before leaving in a saloon type vehicle

If you witnessed anything then please can you contact on 101 or via https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/  , quoting reference number 75 of 17th October 2023 , or alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(17 Oct 2023)

Stone residents - Do you recognise any of these bikes?

They have been found abandoned locally in the past 6 months, and police are hoping to return them to their rightful owners

If you believe any of the bikes to be yours and can provide proof of ownership , then please email lisa.powell@staffordshire.police.uk

Should nobody come forward within the next 7 days then all the bikes will be donated to a local charity

(17 OCT 2023)

This phone has been handed into Stafford Police Station. If it is yours please contact 25713@staffordshire.police.uk or contact 101 asking to contact PCSO 25713. It was found near to the library.

(17 OCT 2023)

Friday 13 has proved to be unlucky for suspected vehicle thieves as 13 people remain in custody as part of a clampdown.  

Proactive officers have been working alongside roads policing officers and neighbouring forces to share information, patrol hotspot areas and target prolific offenders in the county.

On Friday13 October 2023, police were called to an address in Tamworth after a number of suspects stole the keys to a VW Golf. They tracked the stolen car into the Perry Bar area and stopped it. Four men were arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including vehicle theft and are still in custody.

On Thursday 12 October 2023, police received a report that a Ford Transit had been stolen in Stafford. They found it a short time later, along with a car which was seen in the area at the time. They searched the inside and found cash, cannabis and lots of car keys. Police arrested:

• A 29-year-old man, from Birmingham, on suspicion of vehicle theft and being concerned in the supply of cannabis
• A 29-year-old man, from Sandwell, and a 32-year-old man, from Walsall, on suspicion of vehicle theft

All three are still in custody at this time.

Alongside this, police also worked with colleagues at West Midlands Police to arrest a number of people on suspicion of conspiracy to steal motor vehicles. Five arrests were made in a 48-hour period and a separate arrest was made in Staffordshire whilst investigations continue.

To read more about their work as part of Op Bormus, visit: More than 60 arrests made as officers continue vehicle theft clampdown | Staffordshire Police

On Wednesday night, 11 October 2023, police also followed two cars which failed to stop for officers in South Staffordshire and later seized two stolen cars and made two arrests. Read more here: Two arrests after officers seize stolen cars in convoy | Staffordshire Police

(16 Oct 2023)

 

Have you ever received a text message that you weren’t quite sure about? Maybe it asked for you to “verify” your personal or financial details? 

You can report suspicious text messages by forwarding them to 7726

(12 Oct 2023)

Stafford Borough Police are refreshing their Automatic Number Plate Recognition Technology 

Police use ANPR cameras to help detect, deter and disrupt criminality at a local, regional and national level.

They are also vital in tackling travelling criminals, organised crime groups and terrorists.

ANPR cameras are being updated in:

> Milford

> Colwich

For more information about ANPR cameras and how we use the data from them, visit: https://orlo.uk/1mGt1

(12 Oct 2023)

 

Police are appealing for information following a deliberate fire at a derelict pub in Stone.

They were called to the Darlaston Inn, Stone, just after 9.30am on the morning of Wednesday 4 October 2023 along with Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service following reports of a fire at the pub.

The fire was extinguished by fire crews and was deemed to have been caused deliberately.

Officers and crews remain at the scene.

Anyone with any information, CCTV or dashcam footage that could help with inquiries are asked to contact on 101, quoting incident 158 of 4 October, or use Live Chat on their website https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

If you prefer to report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(6 Oct 2023)

 

Stafford Police are appealing for information following a burglary at a business in Stafford.

At midnight on Tuesday 3 October two unknown offenders forced entry to the Spar shop on Cape Avenue, Western Downs, and stole various items including vapes, cigarettes and alcohol. They left the shop at around 1.15am (Wednesday 4 October).

The offenders also took a laptop from an office inside the shop. They are described as two men dressed in black and wearing face coverings.

Police are appealing to anyone that may have witnessed any suspicious activity or vehicles in the area at the time.

If you have any information that could help with inquiries, call 101, quoting incident 77 of 4 October, or message using Live Chat on their website.

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(5 Oct 2023)

 

A dark grey Piranha BMX with brown handles and brown seat has been found on Station Road, Stafford.

Police are keen to reunite the bike with the owner.

The bike can be collected from Stafford Police Station with proof of ownership and quoting reference number 21230139686 

(5 Oct 2023)

 

WITNESS APPEAL

Officers are investigating a theft at Langot Lane, Fairoak, Eccleshall.

Offenders have stolen a John Deere Gator Utility Vehicle similar to the one pictured above.

This occurred overnight, between 20:30hrs on Saturday 30th September 2023 and 05:30hrs on Sunday 1st October 2023.

Stafford Police are appealing for any information you may have, or any CCTV that could assist in the investigation, please contact PC Walker on helen.walker1@staffordshire.police.uk

Unfortunately this incident appears to be one of many in the area where by offenders have targeted rural properties between 30th September and 1st October 2023. If you feel you may of seen something, or could help with the investigation again please contact PC Walker on the above email.

Alternatively you can contact on 101, online chat or you can contact us via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

If you see any suspicious activity, people or vehicles please report it, it may be the missing link they need!

(2 Oct 2023)

Do you recognise these bikes? They were located in Stafford last night (Saturday 30 September 2023), and police hoping to reunite them with their rightful owners

If you have any information that can assist, or you are the owner of either or both the bikes, can you please contact on 101, or via the website quoting incident reference 555 of the 29th September

(2 Oct 2023)

A 26yr old male from Meir, Stoke on trent, has been charged with burglary, going equipped for burglary, theft and aggravated vehicle taking & damage, after being detained by officers in the Barlaston area on the 26th September 2023.

He is currently remanded to custody awaiting a court appearance later this year.

Crime prevention advice including keeping vehicles safe here, https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/

To report a crime, call the Police on 101 or message them via their website using Live Chat – https://orlo.uk/W5sr7 In an emergency, always call 999.

You can also report anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(29 Sept 2023)

 

Can you help us find Kai, from Colwich.

Kai is 16years old and police are concerned for their welfare.

They were last seen at around 4pm on Tuesday 26 September 2023.

They are described as slim build, with brown shoulder length hair.

They were last seen wearing pyjamas, but known to usually wear black clothing.

If you've seen Kai or know of their whereabouts, please call on 101 or contact on live chat via the website quoting incident 634 of 26/09/23. https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/

(27 Sept 2023)  

*UPDATE* Missing 16-year-old Kai, from Colwich, has been found.

 

A Samsung Mobile Phone was found in Cup of Cha tea house, 4 & 5 North Walls, Stafford, around 2nd September 2023, however they have been unable to contact the owner.

It has now been handed to the Police. If you believe this is yours please contact 101 and quote 21230 134252.

(26 Sept 2023)

 

Can you help us find Claire, from Stafford

She is 50 years old, is missing from Stafford and police are concerned for her welfare.

She was last seen at around 5 pm on Sunday 24th September 2023

She is described as slim build, with brown hair.

She was last seen wearing grey joggers and a dark top.

If you've seen Claire or know of her whereabouts, please call 101 or LiveChat via https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/  quoting incident 0620 of 24/09/2023.

(26 Sept 2023)

 

Staffordshire Police  -  Safe use of Taxis - Top Tips.

To report a crime, call the Police on 101 or message them via their website using Live Chat – https://orlo.uk/W5sr7 In an emergency, always call 999.

You can also report crime anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111.

(21 Sept 2023)

 

Witness Appeal

Officers are investigating a double burglary at Pizza GoGo on Lichfield Road, Stafford. Unknown offenders have forced entry into the premises between 2300hrs on 4th September 2023 and 1100hrs on 5th September 2023 with the premises again being attacked between 0100hrs and 1200hrs on the 18th September 2023.

During the incident damage was caused along with stock, equipment and petty cash being taken. CCTV has had to be replaced due to damage being caused to the system, this has been retrieved and is now being analysed but can you help further?

If you were in or around the area on the dates and times mentioned, witnessed anything or have any CCTV/Dashcam footage of people in the area acting suspiciously, please call 101 and quote incident reference 414 of the 18th September 2023.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(20 Sept 2023)

 

The Police have received a number of reports involving thefts from vehicles across Stafford. 

These incidents have occurred overnight on the 15th and16th September 2023. 

The locations include - Seimens Road, Queensville Avenue, Cambridge Street, Sheridan Street, Pennycroft Bungalows and St Georges Parkway. 

If you have any CCTV that may be linked or any further information that may assist the Police with their investigation, please contact Staffordshire Police either by calling 101 or via the live chat on the Staffordshire Police Website. 

Please ensure you take extra steps to ensure you have not left any valuables in your vehicles and that you have locked your vehicle when not in use.  

(18 Sept 2023)

Did you witness any suspicious activity in Haughton overnight between Wednesday 13th September and Thursday 14th September 2023?

Police have received reports of persons acting in a suspicious manner in the early hours of the 14th September, in the Station Road and Moat House Drive area, and are looking to speak to anybody with any CCTV or witnesses in the area, in order to help identify people involved.

If you have any information that may assist, please can you call 101 or contact via the website www.staffordshire.police.uk, quoting reference number 55 of the 14th September.

Alternatively, you can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(15 Sept 2023)

Staffordshire Police are currently investigating reports of a number of burglaries in Eccleshall between Friday 8th September and Sunday 10th September 2023, where unknown persons have entered premises and stole items. or tried to gain entry in believed attempt to steal.

It is not confirmed at this time if the reports are linked, however police are asking residents to be vigilant in the local area and report any activity or persons that they deem to be suspicious, or out of the normal routine locally on a typical day to day basis

Do you have any CCTV in or around the following areas? Stone Road, Langton Park, Romford Meadow, Shaws Lane or Bentham Way?

If so can you please email lisa.powell@staffordshire.police.uk

(15 Sept 2023)

 

Do you recognise that you are displaying unhealthy or abusive behaviour within your relationship?

Controlling if or when your partner goes out, who they socialise with, continually checking up on them and getting angry or taking revenge when they don't do what you want them to do is wrong.

If you are concerned about your own behaviour or that of a friend of family member there is help available.

Click here for more information: https://orlo.uk/FgTGT

14 Sept 2023

 

Staffordshire Police are becoming concerned for the whereabouts of a teenage boy from Stafford.

Kyle, aged 14, was last seen at around 9am Saturday 9 September.

He is white, of medium build, with short blonde hair and a longer fringe.

Kyle was last seen wearing black jeans, a grey and white Nike puffer jacket and black trainers.

He has connections in Hednesford and Burntwood and Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Kyle may be with 15-year-old Kiara, who is also missing from Stafford.

She is described as white, around 5ft 6in tall, with dark brown hair and was last seen wearing dark blue tracksuit bottoms, a grey top and a black hoodie.

Anyone who has seen Kyle or Kiara or has any information about their whereabouts is asked to get in touch.

Call 101, quoting 996 of 9 September, or message using Live Chat on their website – https://orlo.uk/lc8yZ

UPDATE: NOW FOUND - 13 September 2023.

(12 Sept 2023)

Police are investigating the theft of a Grey Range Rover Discovery from Mill Meece, near to Eccleshall, overnight between approximately 11pm on Sunday 3rd September and 7.30am on Monday 4th September 2023.

The vehicle has been taken from the driveway of the property situated in a rural location , and they are looking for any information or CCTV locally that may help to trace the vehicle and identify who is responsible for its disappearance.

If you are able to assist in anyway then please contact on 101 or via the website, www.staffordshire.police.uk  quoting incident reference 193 of the 4th September 2023, alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(11 Sept 2023)

 

PUBLIC SAFETY - ESSEX BRIDGE, GREAT HAYWOOD

On Tuesday 4 September 2023,  Staffordshire Police responded to a report of a young child in distress in the water. Thankfully no injuries were sustained.

They are urging individuals swimming in open water to be careful and vigilant of others.

There are many unknown dangers of swimming in local fishing pools, lakes and rivers, such as cold water temperatures, strong currents and unknow items below the surface.

If you see anyone in danger, please call 999 immediately

(6 Sept 2023)

 

Have you heard of the Herbert Protocol?

Herbert Protocol is a national scheme that encourages families and carers to compile information about a vulnerable person, which may be used in the event of them going missing.  The Herbert Protocol was named after George Herbert, a war veteran who lived with dementia.

The Herbert Protocol is a form that families or carers of vulnerable individuals can complete in advance, and provide to the police in the event of the family member or friend going missing, to reduce time in gathering this information. The form records vital information such as a description, photograph, details of medication, mobile telephone numbers, places previously located and previous home and work addresses, including childhood addresses.

Keeping a completed form means you don’t have to try to remember the information when you are under stress if someone goes missing. And it saves time, so we can start the search sooner.

Click on the link below to find out more information and  a copy of the The Herbert Protocol form can be found here :

https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/missing-person/missing-persons/vulnerable-people-at-risk-of-going-missing/dementia-missing-risk-herbert-protocol/

If you are concerned someone living with dementia has gone missing, please call 999 immediately.

Further information in relation to dementia can be obtained from Dementia UK : Specialist support to families facing dementia | Dementia UK

Please share this information with family, friends and neighbours as it may be useful in the event of somebody you know going missing,

(4 Sept 2023)

 

Stafford Local Policing Team are appealing for information following a series of recent deliberate fires along a street in Stafford. Since June, a total of five separate fires have been reported on North Castle Street, with all of them later being deemed deliberate.

Most recently, police were called to the area after a garden shed was set alight on Thursday 24 August 2023.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service extinguished the fire and later deemed the ignition to be deliberate. Two fires were also reported in June, with both fires found at the rear of houses on the street.

Officers have been speaking to people in the area and reviewing footage around the fires as part of their enquiries. Patrols in the area have been increased.

They are keen to speak to anyone with may have any information which can help  with their investigation.

Call on 101, quoting incident 594 of 24 August, or message using Live Chat on their website – https://orlo.uk/SPqYl

If you prefer to report anonymously, call Crime stoppers on 0800 555 111.

(3 Sept 2023)

Stafford Local Policing Team are appealing for information after a disability access gate was stolen in Derrington recently.

On 16 August, the gate (pictured) was taken from a wooded area off Billington Lane and they are keen to find the person responsible.

Anyone with any information is asked to get in touch by calling 101, quoting incident 319 of 16 August or by using Live Chat on their website – https://orlo.uk/Y9rmR  To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(2 Sept 2023)

Staffordshire Police have received a report of a van being broken into and tools have been taken, on Bluebell Hollow, Stafford. This occurred approximately 0525hrs on Thursday 31st August 2023.  Officers are asking for any information or if residents have any CCTV/dashcam/doorbell footage which could assist officers in identifying any suspects. 

If anyone is wishing to report any suspicious activity in your area or have found themselves to be a victim of a crime, then please email lyndsey.brough@staffordshire.police.uk quoting ref number 377 31/08/2023. 

(31 Aug 2023)

*UPDATE* Following on from an appeal for information for a theft from motor vehicle, In Bluebell Hollow, Stafford.  Staffordshire Police wish to thank the community within the Weeping Cross area of Stafford who provided the essential information to the Police, where the suspect, a 43 year old man from Stafford, has been successfully identified, located, arrested and charged with offences,  including being subject to bail conditions, a curfew and an exclusion zone. 

(1 Sept 2023)

Staffordshire Police are urging van owners to secure their vehicles and remove valuables after a spate of thefts.

Offenders appear to be cutting holes in doors and locks, peeling panels back and damaging windows, in order to access tools which have been stored in vans both overnight and whilst parked during the day.

Ford Transits and Vauxhall Vivaros are amongst the most commonly affected vehicles.

Incidents have been reported in East Staffordshire, Tamworth and Lichfield, at residential locations, business premises and hotel and shopping centre car parks.

Van owners should remain vigilant and consider their vehicle’s security to mitigate the chances of them falling victim to such offences.

Where possible lock your van in a secure garage and ensure your van is parked in direct view of CCTV cameras to deter any opportunist from targeting your vehicle.

Mark your tools clearly with your name using paint pens and sealing with a clear lacquer spray and please consider removing tools from vans overnight.

There are also lockable cabinets and small cameras which can be installed inside vans, alongside additional security measures which can further deter thieves.

For more crime prevention advice, visit: Preventing car and vehicle theft | Crime Prevention | Staffordshire Police

(28 AUG 2023)

Officers investigating an attempted burglary at a home in Stafford are appealing for information.

At 12.30am Thursday 24 August 2023, police were called to Morton Road Burton Manor after a man was seen inside. He was wearing a balaclava and gloves and made off after being disturbed.

Officers have since spoken to the victim and are appealing for anyone with any information, particularly CCTV, dashcam and doorbell footage from the area to get in touch.

Call on 101, quoting incident 9 of 24 August, or message using Live Chat on our website – www.staffordshire.police.uk

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(24 Aug 2023)

Stafford Police are currently responding to a high volume of incidents in Stafford Town Centre relating to groups of teenagers. The incidents include theft, assault and general anti-social behaviour (ASB). This will not be tolerated. Officers are targeting the area and offenders will be pursued.

A dispersal notice has been authorised from today, 6pm Wednesday 23 August 2023 until 5:59pm Friday 25 August 2023 granting additional powers to disperse and arrest those who breach the notice.

Parents, please support our community by discouraging this behaviour.

Stafford Police are working in close partnership with Stafford Borough Council CCTV and ask that local businesses and the public continue to report incidents to them when they occur.

To report a crime, call the Police on 101 or message them via their website using Live Chat – https://orlo.uk/W5sr7 In an emergency, always call 999.

You can also report anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

#UPDATE Last evening had continued to be busy in Stafford town centre. Officers have issued directions to leave under the dispersal notice to multiple groups in the town centre who now risk arrest if they return while the notice is in place.

There has also been:

- 3x persons arrested who are now in custody for separate offences of assault and public order offences.

- 4x stop searches for separate incidents of theft and weapon possession.

- 2x suspect interviews completed for reported shoplifting.

In addition to progressing the criminal investigations they will:

- Share information and intelligence with partner agencies.

- Work with housing associations to consider tenancy breaches where ASB has occurred in the area a perpetrator lives.

- Make appropriate referrals to social services, schools and youth offending teams

(23 Aug 2023)

 

Do you know somebody who regularly receives scam or nuisance calls on a landline phone?

 From this week, Friends Against Scams will be making call blockers available to those who need them for free!

To find out more and apply, visit  https://orlo.uk/rlPQh

(23 AUG 2023)

Theft of Vehicle - Tixall Road - Near to Sewage Treatment Works.

Police have been made aware that a vehicle has been stolen from the Lane towards to Sewage Treatment Works off the Tixall Road, Stafford.

The location is near to -   SEE MAP HERE  

Vehicle Stolen - White, Ford Transit Panel Van, PY60 Registration Plate.

This vehicle was taken without keys and likely a window has been smashed to gain entry. 

This incident has happened on the 18th August 2023 between 17:30 and 19:00. 

The vehicle contained sentimental items to the victim, including photographs, trophies and fishing equipment. 

If you have any information that may be linked to this incident please contact Staffordshire Police, using reference 21230116467 on 101 or using Live Chat on their website – www.staffordshire.police.uk 

You can also report anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(19 AUG 2023)

Bike marking event at Stafford Hospital next week

If you own a bike you might be interested in the free bike marking event happening at Stafford Hospital next week.

Date: Tuesday 22nd August 2023

Time: 10am to 3pm

Location: County Hospital, Weston Road, Stafford, ST16 3SA (by the main entrance)

There’s no need to book a time slot, just bring your bike along to have the frame permanently marked with a unique BikeRegister ID. Marking the bike with a unique reference number makes it easier to identify and return if it is stolen in the future.

Stafford Police also have crime prevention advice on hand if you’d like to chat to one of the team about the best ways to keep your bike safe when you are out and about or when you store it at home.

(18 AUG 2023)

Staffordshire Police have made two arrests after officers seized crack cocaine and heroin, worth more than £3,000, in Stafford on Tuesday (15 August 2023).

Police stopped a grey Ford Mondeo at 1.25pm yesterday on Friars Road, Stafford.

They seized 40 wraps of crack cocaine and heroin as well as mobile phones.

Officers also carried out a search of a property in Stafford and found a quantity of crack cocaine and heroin, worth £3,300 overall, cash and scales.

The drugs along with the cash, scales and mobile phones were seized by officers.

A 17-year-old boy, from Wolverhampton, was arrested on suspicion of drugs driving and possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

A 19-year-old woman, from Stafford, was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

Both have been bailed pending further inquiries.

The activity follows their ongoing commitment to tackling serious and organised crime and protecting those who are at risk of exploitation through criminals – called Operation Target.

Work is continuing to proactively target the groups responsible for these crimes – including county lines, drug distribution, illegal firearms and sexual exploitation.

To read more about the initiative, visit: https://orlo.uk/s7tPt

(18 Aug 2023)

 

Staffordshire Police have received a report of a burglary in the Baswich area of Stafford.

The incident happened at approx. 01:00AM on 14/08/2023 at a property off Baswich Lane, when offenders have gained access to the property via the rear garden.

Two males have been sighted in the area, wearing dark coloured hooded tops.

If you have seen or heard anything suspicious or have CCTV that may be evidential can you please contact Staffs Police on 101 and quote incident ref 0217/14th August, or using Live Chat on their website – www.staffordshire.police.uk 

You can also report anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(15 August 2023)

When you think of drug driving it’s likely you’re thinking of people driving after using illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin or ecstasy, but the reality is that certain prescribed drugs can also impair your ability to drive safely and may show up on a roadside drugs test. These include: •            Clonazepam:                    •            Diazepam (Valium) •            Flunitrazepam •            Lorazepam •            Methadone •            Morphine •            Oxazepam •            Temazepam As part of Staffordshire Police Safer Summer Roads campaign, they are encouraging everyone to consider factors that may make them more likely to be involved in an incident on the roads, and drugs are one of these. If you’re prescribed new medication, you’re always best to ask your doctor, pharmacist or healthcare professional if it will affect your ability to drive. If you’re taking over the counter medication you can also check the advice leaflet, which should alert you to any possible side effects. Even if the medication isn’t strong, but it makes you feel drowsy or unable to concentrate, you’re best to avoid driving to protect the safety of other road users. Through the campaign they will also be drawing attention to illegal drug use, which if detected through one of their roadside drug wipes or a blood test back at the station, can lead to a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record, a hefty fine, up to six months in prison and a driving licence endorsement for 11 years. To tackle the issue, officers are proactively testing anyone they suspect of drug driving. You can find more information about drug and drink driving here: https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rs/road-safety/alcohol-drug-driving/

  

 

Baswich Community Group appeal for information.

Over the weekend Saturday/Sunday 12/13 August 2023, Two teenage boys followed some children to the Co op on Farmdown Road Baswich and stole 2 of their scooters, they are clearly visible on the Co op’s CCTV and this has been reported to the police. The scooters were tracked down by members of the community who witnessed and intervened. These 2 lads were seen earlier in the area delivering leaflets through letter boxes during the afternoon, perhaps you have any Ring Doorbell footage?

If you witnessed this incident please can you contact the police with any in formation. Call 101 or message using Live Chat on their website – www.staffordshire.police.uk You can also report anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(14 Aug 2023)

To support the #SaferSummerRoads campaign, Staffordshire Police are promoting the locations of safety camera vans to encourage drivers to drive safely throughout the county.

Safety camera vans help to deter dangerous driving practices including speeding, using a phone at the wheel or not wearing a seat belt.

This week the technicians will be covering routes across the north, east, south and west of the county to ensure all areas receive coverage, so you could see them in any of the following locations (and possibly others too!):

North: Meir Heath, Northwood, Trentham, Tunstall, Biddulph, Blackshaw Moor, Cheadle, Endon, Longsdon, Tean, Alsagers Bank, Audley, Kidsgrove, Loggerheads, Newcastle

South: Penkridge, Kinver, Codsall, Wombourne, Brewood, Cannock, Heath Hayes, Hednesford, Rugeley

East: Barton, Burton, Stapenhill, Uttoxeter, Alrewas, Armitage, Burntwood, Kings Bromley, Lichfield, Little Aston, Shenstone, Coton, Perrycrofts, Stoneydelph, Wilnecote

West: Stafford, Barlaston, Cresswell, Derrington, Eccleshall, Gnosall, Hixon, Milford, Rough Close, Tittensor, Weston, Stone

Read more about the #SaferSummerRoads campaign here: https://orlo.uk/YBWsY

(7 Aug 2021)

 

A man has been charged after damage was caused to a village shop in Great Haywood.

Carl Need, 36, from Stoke-on-Trent, is due to appear at North Staffordshire Justice Centre today (Monday 31 July) charged with criminal damage to a property valued over £5,000.

It comes after a shop on Main Road was damaged by a man last Friday (28 July).

To report a crime, call the Police on 101 or message them via their website using Live Chat – https://orlo.uk/W5sr7

In an emergency, always call 999.

You can also report anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

 

 

 

Can you help Police find 11-year-old Gracjan, from Stafford.

He is missing from Trinity Fields and they are concerned for his welfare.

He was last seen at around 1pm on Sunday 30 July.

He is described as medium build, with blonde hair.

He was last seen wearing a dark blue hoody with a 23 sign on the back, navy blue shorts and black adidas trainers.

If you've seen Gracjan or know of his whereabouts, please get in touch on 101 or use LiveChat at https://www.staffordshire.police.uk quoting incident 785 of 30 July.

(31 July 2023)

 

Stafford Police have arrested a man after thousands of pounds worth of damage was caused to a village shop in Great Haywood.

At 5.30pm  on Friday 28 July, they were called to Main Road following reports of threatening behaviour.

A man who was inside refused to pay for his goods and became aggressive with staff.

The man started to cause damage to the store, prompting staff to evacuate.

Officers, along with a police dog, went to the scene and challenged the man from outside.

A 36-year-old man, from Stoke-on-Trent, was then arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and held in custody.

Detective Inspector Louise Booker said: “This incident has caused a great deal of concern within the local community and work is continuing at pace to review CCTV, speak with witnesses and liaise with the business owners to review the available evidence.

“Local officers have been reassuring and speaking with nearby residents today as patrols in the area continue.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident are asked to get in touch with us by calling 101, quoting incident 617 of 28 July, or by messaging us through Live Chat on our website – https://orlo.uk/wBFKR

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(31 July 2023)

 

POLICE SURGERY

Stafford Borough Local Policing Team will be holding a drop in Police Surgery at Baswich Library on Bodmin Avenue/Lynton Avenue on Friday 28th July 2023 at 2pm. 

This will last for one hour .

Please come along for advice or a chat.

 

Help make Staffordshire roads safer after an increase in fatal accidents

Staffordshire Police are asking drivers and road users to take care on the roads as part of their #SaferSummerRoads campaign.

Officers across Staffordshire will be carrying out a three-week long campaign this month as they look to target motorists who are putting others at risk through speeding and poor road safety awareness. 

The initiative launched on Monday 24 July and will involve a series of enforcement and education activities across the county – just as people start heading out for holidays, festivals and days out during the peak summer months.

The primary aim of the campaign is centred around preventing speeding and increasing awareness around the dangers of speeding.

As motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians are usually out more during this period, the campaign is also concentrating on being aware of other roads users and the safety of motorcyclists in particular.

It comes after a number of fatal road collisions in Staffordshire recently, which have increased by 39 per cent when compared to the pre-Covid-19 baseline (2019-2020). There were seven fatal collisions involving motorcycles in the last 12 months (June 22 to May 23), and three of these took place in the month of May alone.

Speeding is often a factor in collisions and, in the last three years, speed contributed to 32 per cent of crashes in which someone died or was seriously injured.

As part of the operation, officers will be focusing their efforts on roads and areas where speeding is known to be an issue or there is a history of serious collisions. The roads policing unit, together with the Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership, will be out and about in local communities taking part in a number of initiatives.

The locations of the speeding operations will be advertised their social media channels. They aim to get road users to think about their behaviour and stop speeding themselves, rather than catching them in the act.

Part of the campaign will also see advice and videos being published to raise awareness of how to use the roads safely this summer on various channels and targeted advertising aimed at motorcyclists.

This campaign also supports their on-going work as part of Operation Lightning, which aims to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on the roads of Staffordshire and to disrupt and deter criminals from using the road network.

To read more about the campaign, visit: #SaferSummerRoads | Staffordshire Police

#SaferSummerRoads campaign.

(26 July 2023)

As children break up for the long summer break, if they're like most children, they’ll probably be getting up and going to bed later. Playing out more. And if they’re lucky, you might be taking them away on holiday.

 What’s almost certain is that they’ll be going online more than in term time … for entertainment, keeping in contact and chatting with their mates, gaming and the multitude of other things kids use the internet for. 

With all the additional time spent doing more online, how can you be sure that the young people in your family are safe from the issues they can encounter every day? This latest campaign provides tips and advice on how to help your children stay safe online this summer. Read below, or see the attached leaflet for more information:  Keeping your child safe online

July23_Parents_Leaflet.pdf

(24 July 2023)

 

Staffordshire Police are warning people of an ongoing cyber-blackmail scam currently targeting random people, which threatens to post intimate photos or video footage online if money isn’t paid.

Sextortion, which is a combination of sex and extortion, involves criminals who trick victims into sending explicit images digitally to then use them as a blackmailing technique in exchange for money.

Victims are contacted through social media at random by fake profiles. Criminals gain the victim’s trust and then ask them to send explicit images and videos.

Once they are sent, fraudsters then post these photos on public sites and threaten to send it to family and friends if the victim doesn’t pay them money.

Recently, so called ‘sextortion’ incidents have been reported in the county. Around 300 in total have been reported since 2020.

In this year alone, more than 100 people have been tricked into sending money to fraudsters as part of the scam. They are often coerced into doing so with false promises from criminals who tell them that sending cash will stop indecent images from being shared on social media sites.

People have reported receiving emails from fraudsters threatening to post or share videos on social networks and demanding payment.

PC Sharon Ribbans, part of the Investigation Bureau team at Staffordshire Police, said: “This is a very distressing crime, which preys on people’s vulnerabilities and worries about any consequences. The welfare of victims is paramount and I want to reassure people that this is highly likely to be a scam and they have nothing to fear.

“Don’t be embarrassed to report it and don’t attempt to respond to any threat or pay any money. Grab a screen shot of communication, suspend associated accounts but do not delete any content or the account themselves; and please report it to us and we will then investigate.

“Inquiries are going into these incidents and we are working closely with partners such as the National Crime Agency and National Police Chiefs’ Council to crack down on offenders.”

There are a number of ways you can protect yourself from fraudsters, including:

• Setting your social media accounts to private and restrict who can see your social media
• Don’t accept requests of strangers or send explicit photos or videos online. They can never be recovered
• Don’t engage in conversation with these scammers and under no circumstances pay any money. If you do, they will likely continue to harass you and ask for more
• Report any accounts immediately to the social media site they are using to prevent other victims and so the account can be closed down
• Never send personal information online to someone you do not know.

You can report any crime through the Live Chat function on their website – www.staffordshire.police.uk, or call 101.

For further information about online safety you can also visit:

www.getsafeonline.org

www.thinkuknow.co.uk

www.ceop.police.uk

(19 July 2023)

 

Police have seized a gel gun and issued a boy with a community resolution notice following a recent incident in Stafford.

A number of forces across the UK have been experiencing an increase in these incidents recently – with local reports involving people using the guns to cause intentional fear and alarm within the community.

Most recently, at 8am on Monday 17 July,  police were called to Chell Road after a group of people were shot at by a group of youths in a moving car.

Fortunately the pellets did not harm the group, but concerns were raised and local officers where sent to track down those responsible.

A short time later, they found the suspect car and spoke with three people inside. One of the boys, a 17-year-old from Stafford, admitted to firing the gel gun and surrendered it to officers.

He was then issued with a community resolution notice and spoken to firmly about his behaviour. 

This comes following a spate of incidents across Staffordshire recently, with more than 40 gel gun reports coming in so far this year.

Staffordshire Police would like to reiterate that these toy guns are a significant cause of concern for them. They are being used to intentionally cause panic and alarm within local communities and can easily be mistaken as real firearms.

Concerned residents often report these guns to them inaccurately, resulting in firearms officers being sent to places they don’t need to be and potentially putting those in real life emergencies at risk.

These gel guns, which are typically sold as toys, are also capable of causing serious injury if they hit someone in their face.

Although no serious injuries have been reported in Staffordshire, officers across all ten of their local policing teams are taking action to find those responsible and put a stop to their offending.

Chief Inspector Giles Parsons, of the Stafford Borough local policing team, said: “Our stance on these gel guns remains the same across the entire county – we won’t tolerate them and we will continue to target those responsible.

“Whilst the decision was made on this occasion to issue the boy with a community resolution, those who are using these toy guns in an anti-social manner are likely to face arrest if they are caught.

“I’d encourage parents and guardians to check that their children do not own one of these toy guns and speak to them around the implications of using them to engage in anti-social behaviour.

“Engaging in this trend is going to concern residents, drain police resources and potentially land you in trouble.

“Work is continuing to investigate all of the reports we’ve received, identify those responsible and put a stop to this issue - and I’d encourage the local community to continue reporting these incidents to us so we can take appropriate action.”

To report an incident, call 101 or message using Live Chat on their website – www.staffordshire.police.uk

In an emergency, always call 999.

(18 July 2023)

 

A man has been jailed after he was caught carrying a knuckle duster in Stafford.

Christopher Mason, 37, of no fixed address, was sentenced to six months behind bars at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Tuesday (11 July) after he pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.

Police searched him on Wharf Road, Gnosall, on Sunday 9 July and found the knuckle duster in his pocket.

He was arrested at the scene and later admitted to the offences in custody.

PC Joe Knox, of Stafford local policing team, said: “We’re pleased with the sentence given to Mason after he was found carrying a weapon in a public place.

“I’d like to reassure the local community that proactive officers will continue to carry out stop and searches in the area and action their concerns as effectively as possible.

(17 July 2023)

Staffordshire County Council call blocker devices for vulnerable residents

If you know of a vulnerable person who receives a lot of unwanted nuisance and scam calls, you can contact Staffordshire County Council Trading Standards to apply for a free call blocker device.

The council can provide and fit a simple device that fits between your home phone and wall socket to filter out nuisance calls.

You can find out more information by visiting the Staffordshire County Council website

https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/callblockers

If you have questions about the scheme, or you wish to pass this information to someone who doesn’t have access to the internet, you can call Staffordshire Trading Standards on 01785 277855.

  

 

E-SCOOTERS

This is a reminder to those who own and ride e-scooters.

The use of e-scooters is only legal on private property, with the land owners permission. If you are seen using an e-scooter on public roads or pavements, the e-scooter will be seized by officers.

When an uninsured vehicle is seen using the public highway it can only be returned to the owner once proof of insurance is shown. E-scooters are currently not able to be insured so, the scooter will not be returned to the owner and will be crushed.

Please don't fall foul of this, and parents, please ensure your children are aware and are using e-scooters in a suitable place.

 

Anti-social behaviour, of any kind, can be intimidating and threatening. This behaviour can scare or upset a person, and damage their quality of life.

Staffordshire Police don’t underestimate the impact anti-social behaviour can have, so they want you to know that there is support available.

Reporting ASB can be done in a number of ways and can make a real difference to your life and lives of your loved ones.

ASB Harmony Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent are a commissioned service by Staffordshire Commissioner, which offers free and confidential support to people in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent who have been affected by ASB

harmony@victimsupport.org.uk

https://orlo.uk/nbTu3

Other support services include:

ASB Help: https://orlo.uk/5gFIr

Crimestoppers: https://orlo.uk/vg8tJ

Supportline: https://orlo.uk/1xEOs

You can also contact the police via Live Chat on their website, by calling 101 or in an emergency, dial 999.

For more information, visit their website: https://orlo.uk/Dyio5

#ASBAwarenessWeek  #antisocialbehaviourweek

 

 

Staffordshire Police - Anti-social Behaviour Awareness Week 

Do you have an elderly or vulnerable neighbour who is experiencing ASB? Do you know someone in your neighbourhood who needs some support?

Anti-social behaviour covers a wide range of issues which causes, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to person.

Staffordshire Police don’t underestimate the impact anti-social behaviour can have and are here to help.

Find out more about ASB, how to report it and what support is available on their website here: https://orlo.uk/Rlo8a

#ASBAwarenessWeek

 

 

A man and a woman have been charged after police found crack cocaine and heroin in Stafford.

On Monday 26 June, they carried out a warrant at a flat and found the drugs inside.

James Bailey, 40, from Birmingham, and Samantha Matthews, 40, from Stafford, have since been charged with two counts of possession with intention to supply class A drugs and two counts of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs.

They have both been remanded in custody ahead of an appearance at Stafford Crown Court on 28 July.

To report crime in your area, visit: www.staffordshire.police.uk and contact via Livechat, or call 101. To report ANONYMOUSLY, please call the independent charity CRIMESTOPPERS on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111  Always call 999 in an emergency.

(05/07/2023)

 

Staffordshire Police are investigating a burglary that occurred in the Wildwood area yesterday, Tuesday 4 July 2023. The incident happened at approx 22:30 hrs at a property on Sylvan Way.

Four or five suspects have been seen leaving a white van that was parked on a nearby street, they have gained access to the property via the rear garden.

If anyone has seen or heard anything suspicious or has any CCTV / Ring doorbell footage that may have captured anything, please get in touch on 101, or via their website, www.staffordshire.police.uk quoting incident reference 802/04JULY.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111

(05/07/2023)

 

During the morning (approx. between 9 and 10am) on Tuesday 4 July, there has been a garage break-in in Amerton, where access onto property has come from the rear garden.

2 motorbikes have been stolen from within the garage.

If you have seen or heard anything from the property on the Uttoxeter Road , Amerton near to Amerton Farm please call 101 or contact via the Staffordshire Police messaging service on the website and quote serial 200 or 4th July.

(03/07/2023)

 

This bike was seen riding around Stafford Town Centre and on the pedestrianised area of the high street. It has no MOT, no insurance and is notified off road. Now off the streets as it would be no good to anyone in a collision. This motorcycle has now been seized by Staffordshire Police.

(03/07/2023)

 

Stafford Borough Local Policing Team are aware of discussions surrounding an incident near to Chell Road  in Stafford on Saturday 1 July.

Officers attempted to detain a male who had been recalled to prison, he had absconded and was traversing dangerous terrain near to the River Sow.

The incident was brought to a peaceful end and the male was arrested. The fire and ambulance service were in attendance as a precaution but were gladly not required.

 

 

Appeal for any information.

Did you witness anything suspicious in the Haughton area overnight between 6pm on Sunday 25th June 2023 and 9am on Monday 26th June 2023?

Staffordshire Police received a report of a burglary at Haughton Village Hall, on the A518 Newport Road whereby entry was gained and damage caused.

If you have any information that may assist, then please can you get intouch on 101, or via their website, www.staffordshire.police.uk quoting incident reference 429 of 27th June 2023.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111

 

For many of us, today’s home is a very convenient and smart place to live, with more and more devices responding to a tap in an app or the sound of your voice. 

However, every device that’s connected to your Wi-Fi is also transmitting data which could be of interest to criminals, not least your speakers, voice assistants, cameras, intruder alarms, cameras, door locks and security lighting.  To find out how to protect your smart devices, read the Get Safe Online advice in the link below, 

STAY SAFE ONLINE

#SmartDevices

 

These e-scooters have blighted Stafford town centre over the last couple of days, the young riders have shown a complete disregard for people in the High Street with reports of near misses using them deliberately to cause alarm.

Persistence and partnership working with Stafford Borough Council has paid off and they are now seized. The boys will be dealt with by officers for the offences committed.

Stafford Borough Council introduced a PUBLIC SPACES PROTECTION ORDER in December 2022 to address concerns regarding anti-social behaviour in Stafford (and Stone) town centre. In Stafford town centre it covers the area from the clock tower in Gaol Square to The Post House (approximately) along Gaolgate Street, the Market Square and Greengate Street. It states any person is prohibited from riding on a bicycle, scooter, skateboard or roller skates (including roller blades) along the pedestrianised areas of Stafford and Stone town centres. You can find more information of the Public Spaces Protection Order here,  Public Spaces Protection Order

To report crime in your area, visit: www.staffordshire.police.uk and contact via Livechat, or call 101. To report ANONYMOUSLY, please call the independent charity CRIMESTOPPERS on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111  Always call 999 in an emergency.

(23 June 2023)

 

State-of-the-art forensic technology has been rolled out across Staffordshire as part of an ongoing commitment to tackle vehicle crime.

Residents and businesses in hotspot areas now have an extra layer of protection at their disposal in the form of new SmartWater vehicle kits.

The technology was first introduced in Staffordshire following a successful trial period by South Yorkshire Police and is widely used to forensically link offenders to the scene of their crimes. It was previously rolled out locally to help victims identify domestic abusers and has now been transformed to help Police find and stop car thieves proactively.

The rollout also comes following their proactive enforcement activity this year:

• More than 85 arrests have been made since September (2022) for those suspected of vehicle theft
• So far, more than 25 of those people have been charged with the offences or recalled to prison

Alongside officers proactively targeting those responsible, residents are now able to forensically-mark their vehicles using SmartWater kits, which gives them a unique forensic code which has a proven track record of identifying property and linking criminals to the crime.

Inspector Louise Booker, who has overseen the SmartWater rollout locally, said: “This is another important step in the right direction and gives officers extra ways of targeting vehicle crime in Staffordshire.

“Whilst we’re happy with the progress being made, we are still looking at new ways of proactively targeting offenders and protecting the public. This is another example of that commitment and demonstrates our plans to continue targeting community priorities as effectively as possible.”

Local officers have been handing out the kits to residents and businesses who are based in hotspot areas, those who own make and models which are frequently targeted or owners of high value vehicles.

Part of the rollout also sees Police Community Support Officers carrying out proactive engagement in the affected areas and visiting homes and businesses who have either fell victim to vehicle crime in the past or those who may be potential targets - based on local intelligence and regional data.

The kits are capable of marking a large number of parts on the vehicle – including cars, motorcycles, caravans, trailers and business vehicles.

The technology is still capable of leaving a trace even if the vehicle is dismantled and broken down for parts.

Gary Higgins, Director of Operations, DeterTech UK (formally SmartWater Technology), said: “SmartWater retains a 100 per cent conviction rate in contested court cases where our technology has been used in evidence. We are delighted to be supporting Staffordshire Police in proactively targeting car thieves and giving vehicle owners greater peace of mind.”

To read more on their Operation Bormus commitment, visit: More than 60 arrests made as officers continue vehicle theft clampdown | Staffordshire Police

 

 

Officers stopped a vehicle in Stone that was driving along the wrong side of the carriage way on the A34.

In the subsequent vehicle search a quantity of cannabis was recovered.

The driver has been arrested for Dangerous Driving, Driving whilst unfit through drugs and Possession of a Class B controlled substance.

To report crime in your area, visit: www.staffordshire.police.uk and contact via Livechat, or call 101. To report ANONYMOUSLY, please call the independent charity CRIMESTOPPERS on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111  Always call 999 in an emergency.

 

Staffordshire Police were called to Lowfield Lane, Gnosall, just before 11am on Friday (16 June) following reports of man carrying a handgun.

Officers searched a man in the area and found class A drugs and a BB gun.

A 41-year-old man, from Stafford, was arrested on suspicion of possessing of class A drugs and possessing a firearm.

He has since been released on conditional police bail while inquiries continue.

 

Remember to wear your seat belt for #EveryTrip

You may not realise it, but this year is very special when it comes to seat belts as it’s 40 years since it became legal for all drivers to wear a seat belt.

Although most people wear a seat belt for every trip, there are still a small number of people who don’t, or who think they’re not at risk on a short familiar route, so we’re promoting the #EveryTrip campaign to encourage everyone to wear a seat belt when travelling in a vehicle, no matter how short the journey.

Last year more than 800 people were found travelling in a vehicle in Staffordshire without wearing one. The majority of these seat belt offences, 686, were committed by the driver, and 91% of these drivers were men.

Unfortunately, you never know what might happen on your journey, and if you’re involved in a crash you’re twice as likely to die if you’re not wearing a seat belt. A seat belt is designed to keep you in your seat, and prevent or reduce injuries suffered in a crash.

A passenger not wearing a seat belt can be thrown forward and may injure other people in the car, as well as themselves. If the collision happens at 30mph they will hit the front seat, and anyone in it, with a force of 30 to 60 times their own body weight.

As well as the safety dangers, drivers and passengers can also face an on the spot fine of £100 for not wearing a seat belt and this can increase to a maximum of £500 if prosecuted.

Drivers also have a responsibility to make sure any children under the age of 14 are wearing a seat belt, or are in an appropriate child seat if they’re up to 12-years-old or 135 centimetres tall. You can check if you have the correct seat for your child here.

By belting up every time you’re in a vehicle you’re helping to keep everyone in your car safer, as well as other road users.

Staffordshire Police

 

 

Do you recognise this bicycle?

It has been reported stolen following a Burglary on Weston Road Stafford between 10:30pm and 04:30am on 15th June 2023.

Anyone with information, including CCTV or dashcam footage of the area at the time, is asked to contact Stafford Borough Police via 101 or email PC Gilroy on 29826@staffordshire.police.uk and quote incident number 83 of 15th June.

 

 

A man has been remanded in custody after an incident in Stafford yesterday (Monday 12 June 2023).

Staffordshire Police were called to an address in Tennyson Road, where a man was later arrested.

Nicholas Belcher, from Stafford, has been charged with dangerous driving and assaulting an emergency worker.

He will appear in court on Wednesday 14 June.

 

Staffordshire Police will be hosting a free cyber security webinar with colleagues from Derbyshire Police on Wednesday, 28 June. It is not uncommon to hear in the news about organisations that have suffered cyber attacks and data breaches. Unfortunately, this can impact the public where their personal data has been exposed, copied or put on to the dark web, often for sale. The webinar will explain what a data breach is, how they may happen, and how you can protect yourself and your information if you have been affected. This is NON TECHNICAL overview that will raise your awareness and increase your resilience online. Join Sam and Alex to learn more. PLEASE NOTE : THIS IS A REPEAT OF THE WEBINAR THAT WAS HOSTED ON WEDS 10TH MAY. To sign up, visit: REPEAT : Data Breaches. Protecting online accounts & personal information Tickets, Wed 28 Jun 2023 at 18:30 | Eventbrite

 

A man has been charged after police seized a number of mobile phones in Stafford.

On Sunday (4 June), a man was searched on Sydney Avenue in Silkmore.

Anil Jit, aged 28, from Stafford, was arrested and has since been charged with being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine, heroin, cannabis and being concerned in the offer to supply heroin.

He appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Tuesday (6 June) and has been recalled to prison.

To report crime in your area, visit: www.staffordshire.police.uk and contact via Livechat, or call 101. To report ANONYMOUSLY, please call the independent charity CRIMESTOPPERS on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111 

Always call 999 in an emergency.

 

Staffordshire Police received a report about a group of teenagers trespassing on private land in Whitgreave on Monday 5th June 2023 at around 6pm, who had climbed onto stacked silage bales and caused damage.

There are obvious safety concerns around their actions and the police wish to highlight the dangers and potential consequences of the bales that could move or fall, some of which can weigh in excess of 400kg, and potentially cause a serious, or even fatal injury should anybody be struck or trapped by one or multiple bales moving from where they are stacked.

If you have any information about this incident, please contact them on 101, or online via their website, www.staffordshire.police.uk   - quoting incident reference 115 of 06/06/2023.

 

A man has been jailed after plain clothes officers spotted him conducting a drug deal in broad daylight in Stafford.

Morgan Kent, aged 21, of Stafford, was sentenced to two years behind bars on Thursday 25 May at Stafford Crown Court, after pleading guilty to supplying class A drugs and possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

The court heard how Kent was seen attempting to make a drug deal on Marston Road at around 3pm on 13 January 2020.

They arrested him and during a search of his home address Police discovered a total of 54 deals of class A drugs; heroin and crack cocaine worth around £540, as well as digital scales and a quantity of cash.

He was charged and later admitted the offences in court.

The sentencing comes as Staffordshire Police continue to target serious and organised crime, including drug dealing, as part of Operation Target.

Sergeant Thomas Fotherby, of Stafford Borough local policing team, said: “Kent was brazen in his illegal activities in Stafford in January 2020.

“After a brief struggle, we managed to detain him and found proof of his drug dealing at his home address.

“I am pleased Kent admitted his offending in court and that we have been able to get these dangerous substances off our streets.

“We continue to do all we can to disrupt the supply of drugs in our communities and make sure those responsible face significant time behind bars.”

To report crime in your area, visit: www.staffordshire.police.uk and contact via Livechat, or call 101. To report ANONYMOUSLY, please call the independent charity CRIMESTOPPERS on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111 

Always call 999 in an emergency.

 

ROBBERY AT WILDWOOD

Staffordshire Police are investigating a robbery and assault that occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 03/06/2023.

The incident happened at at approximately 20 past midnight on 03/06/23, on the carpark by The Co-op on Wildwood Drive .

The two offenders have been described as 

White Male approx. 18/19, brown hair, wearing a grey tracksuit with black lining under the arms.

White Male approx. 18/19, brown hair , wearing a white T shirt .

Suspects were in a white Vauxhall Corsa "62" plate .

If you witnessed anything, or know who the offenders to this serious incident could be, please call 101 and quote ref 0020/03 JUNE.

To report ANONYMOUSLY, please call the independent charity CRIMESTOPPERS on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111 

 

 

Officers from Stafford Borough Local Policing Team are continuing to carry out high-visibility patrols in Stafford town centre following recent concerns regarding anti-social behaviour.

Recently they have:

Arrested a 40-year-old man on suspicion of arson at the Old Job Centre, Greyfriars. He has since been released under investigation.

Arrested a 21-year-old man after reports a charity collection box was stolen from a seller within South Walls. He has since been charged and bailed to court.

Stopped and searched a 31-year-old man in the town centre. He was arrested on suspicion of theft and going equipped. He has also been charged.

They are committed to investigating any report of crime, anti-social behaviour and disorder in the area in order to reassure the community.

If you’ve witnessed or been the victim of crime, please report it to the police by calling 101, for non urgent matters, or by using the live online chat to the control room at www.staffordshire.police.uk In an emergency, or you feel like a situation could get heated or violent very soon, or someone is in immediate danger and you need support right away - ALWAYS call 999 immediately.

To report crime ANONYMOUSLY, please call the independent charity CRIMESTOPPERS on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111 

 

Staffordshire Police are appealing for information after a man was assaulted at a nightclub in Stafford in October last year.

They are making this appeal now as they have exhausted other lines of inquiry and would like to speak to anyone who saw what happened or who may have relevant information.

Officers were on patrol in Stafford town centre on 2 October 2022 when they spotted the victim on Bridge Street.

The victim, a 32-year-old man from Cannock, had been assaulted in the bathroom of a nearby nightclub by a group of men.

He suffered a suspected broken jaw in the assault and was taken to hospital for further treatment.

Police have reviewed CCTV footage of the area at the time and would like to speak to anyone who recognises the men pictured above, who they would like to speak to in connection with the assault.

Anyone with any information should contact them via Livechat on their website – www.staffordshire.police.uk - or call 101, quoting incident number 21220129810 of 2 October 2022.

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

 

Operation Sceptre, which took place from 15 to 21 May, saw officers intensify their efforts in the fight against knife crime through knife sweeps, stop searches, using knife detectors in public places and the promotion of knife banks for people to surrender them anonymously. 

As a result, they made nine arrests and recovered more than 170 knives, including 150 which had been placed in knife banks throughout the week.

They also took part in 35 educational visits as part of the #DitchTheBlade campaign, which saw officers speaking to 3,000 young people and their parents or carers about the dangers of carrying a knife and the support services available if they feel pressured to carry one.

In addition, Trading Standards teams from Stoke-on-Trent City Council completed test purchase exercises with local retailers to ensure that they were complying with the law so only those who can prove they are over 18 can purchase knives. One store was found to have sold a knife to underage individuals, while eight stores successfully refused to allow them to purchase the blades.

Although it’s not common for young people to carry a knife, national statistics show that 99 per cent of young people aged 10 to 29 don’t carry a knife. Some young people believe that others are carrying one so feel they need to do so. The #DitchTheBlade campaign aims to break through the myths around knife carrying and explain that it’s not normal or acceptable to carry a knife.

Chief Inspector Robert Hessell, force lead for knife crime, said: “It’s vitally important that we continue to encourage conversations around knife crime within our communities.

“This operation builds upon our progress as a partnership to educate young people on the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife and to reduce the number of knives on the streets.

“The majority of young people will never be affected by knife crime, but by encouraging awareness and providing a safe space for the surrender of knives we hope to make our communities a safer place to be.”

A Stoke-on-Trent City Council spokesperson said: “We are encouraged that most of the businesses tested complied with the law. It is absolutely vital that retailers in the city have measures in place to prevent underage sales of knives. Staff should be properly trained to prevent knives getting into the hands of children and to request appropriate identification where there is any doubt as to the age of the purchaser. We will be taking appropriate action against the retailer who failed the operation.

We recognise the importance of supporting Staffordshire Police with Operation Sceptre and its Ditch the Blade campaign. This plays a vital role in keeping our communities safe and we are committed to working with our partners to combat the problem of knife crime.”

Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member responsible for Trading Standards at Staffordshire County Council said: “Knife crime is a concern for everyone, however, thankfully Staffordshire remains a place where incidents are rare.

“It’s vital that shops selling knives are aware of their responsibilities and our Trading Standards officers provide advice to ensure this happens. The team also carries out test purchases to ensure knives and other age-restricted products are not being sold to anyone under the age of 18.

“We already have high levels of compliance amongst local retailers which is encouraging and we will continue to work with our partners to ensure this remains the case.”

For more information on the #DitchTheBlade campaign, and links to support organisations visit: #DitchTheBlade | Staffordshire Police

#DitchTheBlade

 

Why are email accounts so important?

Your emails contain a lot of information about you, so it’s crucial you make your email password strong. If criminals get into your email account, they could access personal information that could be used to scam you or others. To make it harder for them, always use an email password that you haven’t used elsewhere.

Your email inbox can also act as a ‘gateway’ to your other accounts. Once they can access it, a criminal could use the ‘forgot password’ option to request emails enabling them to get into other accounts, such as your social media.

How to secure your email account

Your email password

Using a combination of 3 random words creates passwords that are long enough and strong enough. Avoid words that can be guessed, like your pet’s name or birth month. Adding numbers and symbols is a good way to make your password even harder to guess.

Turn on 2-Step Verification (2SV) for your email

2-Step Verification (2SV) gives you twice the protection so even if cyber criminals have your password, they can't access your email.

2SV works by asking for more information to prove your identity. For example, getting a code sent to your phone when you sign in using a new device or change settings such as your password.

You won't be asked for this every time you check your email.

 How to turn on 2-Step Verification (2SV)

·      Turn on 2SV for Outlook

·      Turn on 2SV for Gmail

·      Turn on 2SV for iCloud

If you are using an email service that does not offer 2SV, please consider switching to an email provider that does.

How to check if one of your online accounts may have been compromised

Services such as www.haveibeenpwned.com can tell you if your personal information or any of your account passwords have been made public in a major data breach.

If you have been affected by a data breach, you can find some useful information here from the National Cyber Security Centre on how to how to protect yourself from the impact of data breaches.

For more advice on how to stay secure online, please visit www.cyberaware.gov.uk

 

Stafford Local Policing Team would like to reiterate under no circumstances should pedal cycles/electric bikes/manual or electric scooters/skate boards and roller skates be ridden through the town centre. Also Electric Scooters are currently illegal and cannot be used in a public area and if seen by any of their officers, they will be seized.

There is currently a PSPO - Public Space Protection Order in place for Stafford Town, this has been bought into force by Stafford Borough Council and has been active for over 12 months.

Within the PSPO are conditions around Anti Social Behaviour and riding bikes/scooters in the town and driving vehicles through the town.

If any of the conditions are breached, an on the spot fine of £75 will be issued. Full details of the PSPO can be found on Stafford Borough Council's website here, https://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/pspo

They will be working closely with Stafford BC to ensure the conditions of the PSPO are met and those ignoring the conditions will be dealt with accordingly.

 

 

A man has been charged with drugs offences following a stop-and-search in Stafford.

At 3pm on Monday (22 May), Police stopped a man on Greyfriars and found class A drugs and a mobile phone.

Wayne Shepherd, 28, from Stafford, has since been charged with two counts of possession with intent to supply class A drugs (heroin and crack cocaine).

He is due to appear at North Staffordshire Justice Centre today (24 May).

 

Update to the report below - Chief Inspector Giles Parsons from Stafford Borough Local Policing Team will be joining us on Tuesdays mid-morning programme (23 May) at 11:30 am to discuss the recent concerns regarding anti-social behaviour in Stafford town centre.

You can hear the full interview from Tuesday's 'Crimeline Special' on the mid-morning show here, Stafford FM Replay - Stafford FM

 

Staffordshire Police are aware of recent concerns around anti-social behaviour in our towns and continue to investigate these reports.

They have increased patrols and are working closely with their partners such as Stafford Borough Council to identify those responsible and ensure appropriate action is taken.

They also want to make you aware that both Stafford and Stone town centres have public space protection orders in place (PSPOs).

PSPOs deal with a particular nuisance or problem in an area that can cause harm to the local community’s quality of life. It works by installing a set of rules that apply to everyone who lives in that area.

Full details can be found at: https://orlo.uk/FY8eh

The breach of a PSPO is a criminal offence and a fixed penalty notice of £100 can be issued.

Anyone who witnesses antisocial behaviour or knows who is responsible is asked to contact them via live chat, or report online at: https://orlo.uk/4VbUo

 

Stay safe online

If you're reading this you are doing so online and probably using a mobile device or computer.

Ransomware is a type of malware that prevents you from accessing your computer or the data that is stored on it. 

The computer itself may become locked, or the data on it might be stolen, deleted or encrypted.

The National Cyber Security Centre offer free advice about how to protect yourself online and against malware.

For more information, please visit: https://orlo.uk/9KeXH and stay safe.

 

Diary Date:  PCSO Emma Fry will be holding a Police Street meet on Thursday 25th May 2023 from 19:00 - 20:00hrs. The meet will be outside the Co-op store on Bodmin Avenue, Stafford.

Please come along if you have any police issues you wish to talk about, or for any general security advice or just a chat.

 

We need your help to encourage young people to Ditch the Blade

99% of young people aged 10 to 29 don’t carry knives, so it’s not a common thing.

Even though it’s not common, Staffordshire Police know that some young people choose to carry because they perceive that others are too, or because they feel pressure to do so. By coming together with other partners through the Ditch the Blade campaign, Staffordshire Police aim to dispel these myths, educate young people on the reality of knife crime and offer support to anyone who may be feeling pressured to carry.

Over the next couple of weeks you may see increased coverage about how they tackle knife crime through the promotion of the Ditch the Blade campaign. By choosing to carry a knife young people put themselves in greater danger as their knife could be used against them and they also face a possible criminal record for carrying it.

Work to educate, inform and enforce on this topic happens every day, by highlighting this topic over the next couple of weeks Staffordshire Police hope to encourage conversations in the community, to empower our young people to make the right choice and realise that carrying a knife is not a normal or acceptable thing to do.

If you have a young person in your family you can find advice on how to discuss the topic together, as well as links to support organisations, on their website - please click on the link below,

https://s-url.co/lJYFAA

#DitchTheBlade

 

 

APPEAL 11 May 2023

Stafford Police are becoming increasingly concerned over the whereabouts of missing 15-year-old girl Olivia from Stafford.

She was last seen in the Stafford area at 3pm on Wednesday (10 May) and is described as white, around 5ft 5ins tall with red shoulder-length hair.

Olivia was reported missing today (Thursday 11 May),  anyone who has seen Olivia, or if you have any information about her whereabouts, contact Stafford Police through Live Chat on the website www.staffordshire.police.uk, or call 101, quoting incident number 101 of 11 May. or to report any information anonymously, please call Crimestoppers on FREEPHONE 0800 555 111.

 

Staffordshire Police are appealing for information following an attempted distraction burglary in Stafford. Between 7.15pm and 7.30pm on Monday 1st  May 2023, four masked men were seen sitting in a silver Mercedes C220 which was parked outside a home on Baswich Lane. One of the men got out and tried to follow another man onto the property. He got back inside the car after a relative of the victim spotted the offender and drove away. Police are currently reviewing CCTV of the area at the time of the incident and house-to-house inquiries are being carried out. If you have any information or relevant CCTV or dashcam footage that could help, please message Staffordshire Police on their LiveChat via the website, www.staffordshire.police.uk  or call 101, quoting 762 of 2 May. To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

 

                               

On Monday 1st May 2023 at 19:00 a Silver Mercedes *08* plate was seen on the driveway of a property on Baswich Lane, Stafford. There were 5 males with the vehicle, 3 of them had been in the rear garden of the property with the elderly home owner. 

The males had told the homeowner there was a blocked drain in the garden that needed clearing.

When the males were challenged by another relative the males got in to the vehicle and swiftly left the area causing damage to their wing mirror and bumper.

Description of one of the offenders - White male, 5”10, Brown hair, Brown eyes, strong Irish accent wearing a black balaclava, surgical facemask, jeans and a think black coat.

If you have any information that may be linked please contact Staffordshire Police either by calling 101, or using the live chat on the police website, www.staffordshire.police.uk  Reference : 21230062170

 

This week we’re highlighting the topic of stalking to support National Stalking Awareness Week.

Through the Let’s Talk Stalking campaign we're asking everyone in the local community to come together to reinforce that stalking behaviours are completely unacceptable, and empower victims to seek support immediately.

Stalking behaviours can be described by the word FOUR:

Fixated – being followed on your daily routine, spied on, or being watched by someone loitering around your work or home.

Obsessed – being monitored on or offline, cyberstalking, the ordering and cancelling of items on your behalf.

Unwanted – gifts being sent or left for you; unwanted messages, letters or phone calls; even damage or graffiti being caused to your property.

Repeated – this can be any nuisance or threatening behaviour, being approached, accosted repeatedly.

When someone reports stalking the Police will work with them to agree a course of action to help protect them and halt the behaviour. This can include using Stalking Protection Orders against offenders following arrest. These protect the victim while they investigate the crime and gather evidence, enabling the offender to be charged and prosecuted.

Stalking behaviour is not normal and it shouldn’t be ignored or accepted. If you know someone who’s experiencing stalking behaviours please encourage them to come forward and report the situation. They can do this by calling 101 or making a report through the Staffordshire Police website www.staffordshire.police.uk, in an emergency always call 999.

For more information and advice, please visit:  https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/police-forces/staffordshire-police/areas/staffordshire-police/campaigns/2021/letstalkstalking/

 

APPEAL FOR INFORMATION

Between 8pm on Friday the 21st April 2023 and 6.30am on Saturday 22nd April 2023, a red and black Case F-registration tractor with front loader was stolen from a small holding in the area of Slindon, near to Eccleshall.

At this time it is not known as to how the tractor was removed, however it is possible it may of been loaded onto a trailer or similar in order to transport away from the location.

Maybe you've seen a tractor like this, or you have been offered one on the cheap in suspicious circumstances? 

If you have any information that may assist in locating the tractor, please can you contact Staffordshire Police  via their website - www.staffordshire.police.uk or call 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

TICKET FRAUD 

You want tickets to see your favourite band, a festival or a big sporting event. The box office and other well-known sites have sold out, and you’re reluctant to pay the prices on the fan ticket exchange sites. So you respond to an ad on social media or an online marketplace.

The seller tells you they’ll post or email the tickets as soon as you’ve transferred the money to their bank account. But when you try to contact them after nothing’s arrived, they’ve disappeared off the face of the earth. Checking a fan forum, you find that dozens of other people have fallen victim to the same fraud.

This happens to thousands of music, sports and other fans every year who get tricked into buying fake or non-existent tickets.

However desperate you are to get into a gig, festival or game, don’t buy tickets from anyone apart from official vendors, the box office or reputable fan reseller sites.

Your expert ticket buying tips

• Buy tickets only from the venue’s box office, sports club, promoter, official agent or reputable ticket exchange sites.
• Consider that tickets advertised on any other source such as auction sites, social media and fan forums may be fake or non-existent, however authentic the seller may seem and whether they’re advertised below, above or at face value.
• Don’t be tempted to click on social media, text or email links or attachments offering tickets, as they could link to fraudulent or malware sites.
• Paying for tickets by bank transfer – however desperate you are to get hold of them – could result in you losing your money if it’s a fraud. The responsibility for losses lies with you, not anybody else, including your bank.
• Check sellers’ privacy and returns policies.
• Consider paying by credit card to get additional protection over other payment methods.
• Double-check all details of your purchase before confirming payment.
• Before buying online, check that the page is genuine (carefully enter the address yourself, not from a link) and secure (‘https’ and a locked padlock), and log out when you’ve completed the transaction.
• Keep receipts until after the event.

Get the full story

For everything you need to know about protecting yourself from ticket fraud, visit www.getsafeonline.org and search ‘Buying Tickets’

#TicketFraud

 

BOGUS CALLERS

Unwanted knocks at the door from people trying to sell you products can be a nuisance, especially if they happen regularly.

Sometimes these visitors’ intentions are fraudulent, whether it’s to sell counterfeit goods or services or simply gather information about you or the property. In some cases, fraudsters may even pretend to be from your utilities company and use the excuse of needing to take a meter reading as a way to gain access to your home.

Before answering the front door ensure the back door is locked.

Ask for identification and examine it thoroughly.

If at any point pressure selling is used, call police straight away.

If you do come into contact with a cold caller, tell your neighbours as well as friends and family.

It is always wise NOT to buy goods or services from cold callers.

Don't be afraid to say NO.

Call 101 for non-emergency enquiries.

If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use the textphone service on 18001 101.
 

Live Chat

Report crime or any other non-emergency matters using Live Chat. This is available to you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and can be accessed here,  www.staffordshire.police.uk

Call 999 if:

• a serious offence is in progress or has just been committed
• someone is in immediate danger or harm
• property is in danger of being damaged
• a serious disruption to the public is likely

If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use the textphone service  18000.

 

APPEAL FOR INFORMATION

Thursday 13th April 2023 

Stafford Borough Police are appealing for any information. Do you recognise this man?

They wish to speak to him in relation to an assault on a man at a premises on Bridge Street in Stafford in the early hours of 27 November of last year.

The assault was reported on 29 November 2022.

If you have any information or relevant CCTV or dashcam footage that could help, please message on their LiveChat via their website - www.staffordshire.police.uk or call 101, quoting 356 of 29 November 2022.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

APPEAL AFTER A MAN IN HIS 40s DIES FOLLOWING A COLLISION

Staffordshire Police are appealing for witnesses after a man died following a collision on the motorway in Stafford.

Shortly before 3.40am on Saturday (8 April), a pedestrian and an HGV collided on the southbound carriageway of the M6 at junction 13.

Police attended the scene alongside colleagues from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Sadly, the pedestrian, a 43-year-old local man, was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin are currently being supported by specially-trained officers at this difficult time.

The road was closed whilst officers completed their initial inquiries at the scene. The driver of the HGV stayed in the area following the collision and assisted officers with their investigation.  

Police are keen to speak to any witnesses or those who may have dashcam footage of the area at the time of the collision or saw the pedestrian in the area prior to the incident.

Contact Staffordshire Police by calling 101, quoting incident 116 of 8 April, or use the Live Chat function on their website – www.staffordshire.police.uk

You can also get in touch with the serious collision investigation unit (CIU) directly by emailing ciu@staffordshire.police.uk

MAN AND WOMAN SUSTAIN FACIAL INJURIES FOLLOWING ASSAULT

Friday 7th April 2023

Staffordshire Police are appealing for information after a man and a woman sustained facial injuries following an assault in Stafford.
They were called to Staffordshire Place just before 3am on Sunday (2 April). West Midlands Ambulance Service also attended.

A man and a woman, both in their 30s, were approached by six unknown men and women.
Both victims were then assaulted and sustained facial injuries. Both were taken to hospital for treatment.

Inquiries are ongoing and Stafford Police are currently reviewing CCTV of the area at the time of the assault.

If you have any information or relevant CCTV or dashcam footage that could help, please call 101, quoting reference 093 of 2 April.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.