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Local News Hastings |
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A motorcycle was stopped on Carlisle Parade due to concerns regarding the manner of riding and the carriage of a pillion passenger. During checks, it was established that the rider held only a provisional licence and was operating the vehicle without displaying the legally required L plates. Further checks revealed multiple defects and compliance issues with the vehicle. Enforcement Actions Taken:
What is a PG9 prohibition notice? It is a formal notice issued by police or DVSA officers that prohibits a vehicle from being used on public roads due to safety-critical defects and cannot be driven until the faults are fully rectified. What is a section 59 warning? Where a vehicle is found to have been used to cause distress, alarm or annoyance or used in an anti-social manner. In general, the warning can last up to 12 months. If a second Section 59 warning is issued in this time frame, an officer can have the vehicle seized. What is a VDRS (Vehicle Defect Rectification Scheme)? The Vehicle Defect Rectification Scheme (VDRS) is a formal process used by police to address minor vehicle defects identified during roadside checks. If a defect is noted under this scheme, the driver or registered keeper is required to have the issue repaired promptly and provide evidence of the repair within 14 days, typically in the form of a receipt or confirmation from a qualified mechanic or garage.
Neighbourhood Policing Update – Hastings Town Centre While conducting routine patrols in Hastings Town Centre this morning, officers identified a male believed to have information that could assist with an ongoing investigation into three recent bulk shoplifting incidents. The individual was located and detained shortly after our arrival, just 30 minutes into our scheduled patrol. He is now in custody, and enquiries are continuing. This outcome highlights the value of visible policing and our commitment to tackling retail crime and supporting local businesses.
During our proactive foot patrols in Hastings Town Centre, officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team identified a male carrying a large builder’s bag filled with hundreds of pounds worth of suspected stolen goods. The individual, who is known to police, was swiftly detained and arrested at the scene. Following the arrest, the male appeared before Brighton Magistrates Court on 19th August, charged with two counts of Criminal Damage and Theft. He has been remanded on bail with strict conditions, including mandatory engagement with STAR (East Sussex Drug & Alcohol Recovery Service) and a scheduled appearance at Hastings Magistrates Court on 6th January 2026. This outcome reflects our continued commitment to tackling crime, protecting local businesses, and ensuring the safety of our community. We will maintain a visible presence in the town centre and work closely with partners to support rehabilitation and reduce reoffending.
Following multiple reports from the community, neighbourhood officers seized two suspected stolen motorbikes linked to anti-social driving in the Bexhill Road area. The riders fled the scene when officers arrived, and investigations are ongoing. How to make stealing your motorbike as unappealing as possible. The longer a thief needs to spend breaking through your security, the less likely they are to try. 🔐If possible, keep it out of sight, park it in a garage or secure garden, getting it off the road could help reduce insurance premiums. ⛓️ Locks / Chains It's a good idea to invest in a good motorbike lock. A disc lock to secure the front brake disc, or a grip lock to secure the brake and throttle controls, use a chain lock through the back wheel as the front wheel can be removed. If possible secure your bike with the lock taut to an immovable object such as a ground anchor or street furniture, alternatively, thread the chain through your motorbike frame and back wheel. 🚨 Alarms A useful deterrent. Ensure that any alarm you choose is an approved device. 🏍️ Motorbike covers When possible, use a motorbike cover, it will also protect your bike from the elements. 🪛 Disable your motorbike Another easy option to deter thieves is removing the spark plug or HT cap. The benefits are that it’s quick and relatively straightforward, although this will not prevent thieves lifting your motorcycle into a van, but it is an added tier of security worth considering. 🖲️ Trackers If the thieves do manage to steal your bike, a tracker fitted to the vehicle could help locate the motorbike and possibly the offenders. If you see your bike being stolen, never put yourself at risk, call police on 999 immediately.
Identifying Speeding in Hastings
Last week, officers worked alongside the Community Speed Watch Team to tackle speeding concerns on Crowhurst Road, a location known for excessive speeds. Community Speed Watch, made up of dedicated local volunteers and supported by Sussex Police, plays a vital role in identifying speeding vehicles and raising awareness of and encourage safer driving, reducing the risk of serious collisions. During this operation, 60 drivers were recorded exceeding the 30 mph limit, with the highest speed reaching 52 mph. Several speeding tickets were issued, and further enforcement measures will follow where necessary. We want to reassure the community that we are listening to concerns and taking decisive steps to make our roads safer. Speeding endangers lives, and we will continue to work with our partners to ensure that those who break the law are held accountable.
Following reports from concerned members of the public regarding vehicles travelling at excessive speeds along Bexhill Road, officers attended the location to carry out targeted speed checks. Between 08:40 and 10:30, three drivers were issued speeding tickets: one motorcyclist, one car driver, and one van driver. The highest recorded speed was 45mph in a 30mph zone. Excessive speed remains one of the leading contributors to serious injuries and fatalities on our roads. We are committed to responding to community concerns and taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of all road users, especially pedestrians and cyclists. We will continue to carry out enforcement in areas where speeding is reported and work closely with residents to make our roads safer for everyone. If you would like to join or set up your own Community Speed Watch in your area, please visit the CSW website here Community Speedwatch Online
Stopped: Driver on a provisional licence. ❌ No L plates. ❌ No supervising driver. Driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence. 📍 No insurance? Vehicle seized on the spot. 📨 Driver now summoned to court for both offences. We’re out there! No licence, no insurance, no excuses.
Officers responded to a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre on Combe Valley Way. The driver attempted to overtake without a clear view of the road ahead, due to an HGV obstructing visibility. This reckless action forced other road users to brake and take evasive action to avoid a potential collision. The driver had previously been issued a Section 59 warning in February. As the warning was not heeded, the vehicle was seized. This incident highlights our continued commitment to tackling dangerous driving and keeping our roads safe for everyone.
Over the weekend we conducted proactive high-visibility patrols in the town centre, spending some of that time at the police pod. We were pleased to see so many people, many of whom took the opportunity to talk with us directly. During the patrol, we received a report of individuals consuming alcohol and engaging in anti-social behaviour. Upon noticing our presence, they dispersed without further incident. The town was notably busy, but we’re pleased to report that no major issues occurred. We’re grateful to members of the public who shared positive feedback, expressing appreciation for the increased police presence and the reassurance it brings. We remain committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
🚓 Community Meeting – Hollington & Wishing Tree Ward 📍 Location: Wishing Tree Field, Corner of Church Wood Drive and Wishing Tree Road 📆 Date: Thursday 4th September 2025 ⏰ Time: 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM If you live or work in Hollington & Wishing Tree Ward, please come along and meet your local Neighbourhood Officers. This is a great opportunity to share your concerns, discuss local issues, and help shape how resources are allocated to best support our community. Local councillors and other partner agencies have also been invited. Let’s work together to keep our community safe and connected! We look forward to seeing you there! Unable to attend a local meeting? We still want to hear from you! Share what matters most in your ward by completing the Police Community Priorities survey Here For more information on what’s happening in your area, please visit our website here
A woman from St Leonards, has been arrested and charged with 32 counts of theft from local shops in Hastings. She appeared at Brighton & Hove Magistrates’ Court and was ordered to pay £500 in compensation. She was also given a 9-month Drug Rehabilitation Requirement, to be carried out under the supervision of probation services. Inspector Chapman stated “This outcome is the result of dedicated work by our neighbourhood policing team, who have been actively addressing repeat shoplifting offences in Hastings. I want to personally thank the local businesses who supported our investigation by providing CCTV footage and witness statements. Your cooperation has been vital in helping us bring offenders to justice and protect our town centre. We remain committed to working together to keep Hastings safe and secure for everyone”.
On Wednesday, 27 August 2025, a woman (40) of Stockleigh Road, St Leonard’s, appeared before Hastings Magistrates’ Court in relation to five counts of theft from local retailers. The offences, which took place between 20 May and 30 June 2025, involved the theft of goods valued at nearly £2,000 from Marks & Spencer and Boots, both located within Priory Meadow Shopping Centre, Hastings. The woman pleaded guilty to all charges and was sentenced to a community order, which includes a drug rehabilitation requirement. She was also ordered to pay £1,665 in compensation. To support ongoing efforts to reduce repeat offending and protect local businesses, the court additionally imposed a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). This prohibits the woman from entering Marks & Spencer and Boots in Priory Meadow for a period of 12 months. Neighbourhood officers will continue to work closely with local partners and retailers to ensure compliance with the order and to support wider community safety initiatives.
On 25 August, we were keen to speak with a male in connection with an ongoing investigation into an assault. At the time, he made off from police. Yesterday, while conducting reassurance patrols in Hastings Town Centre, Neighbourhood Police officers identified the individual and swiftly made an arrest. These daily patrols are a vital part of our commitment to community safety. They allow us to engage directly with residents, support local businesses, and respond proactively to incidents as they arise. Our continued presence in the town centre reflects our dedication to making Hastings a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
Following reports from local residents about speeding concerns in the area, officers conducted a Speed Indicator Device (SID) operation at the top of Battle Road, St Leonards. We’re committed to keeping our roads safe, and this kind of proactive monitoring helps us respond directly to community feedback. The SID allows us to assess traffic behaviour and identify areas where further action or education may be needed. Thank you to everyone who continues to drive responsibly. Your awareness and care make a real difference to the safety of our neighbourhoods #Fatal5. We’ll continue to be visible and responsive, because prevention and education are just as important as enforcement.
🚔 Swift Arrest Following Vehicle Theft – Silverhill, St Leonards Officers responded swiftly to a report of a stolen vehicle in the Silverhill area of St Leonards. Due to the presence of a mobile phone left inside the vehicle when it was stolen, the owner was able to track its movements in real time and relay the location to police. This information enabled officers to take prompt action in locating the vehicle Within just 30 minutes of the theft being reported, a man was arrested in connection with the incident. He has since been charged with the following offences: We understand how distressing incidents like this can be for victims, and we remain committed to acting swiftly and decisively to bring offenders to justice. This case highlights the value of timely reporting, and the role technology can play in supporting effective policing. If you see suspicious activity or are a victim of crime, please report it
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