A Busy Day in the Gardens – And a Sharp Jab of Justice to Match

The Piccadilly Gardens Neighbourhood Policing Team have had an exceptionally busy and proactive day on patrol in the city centre, dealing with a range of offences and safeguarding the public.

The day began with decisive action from PC McKenzie, who arrested an adult male after he failed to comply with his sex offender registration requirements. During the arrest, the individual was also found to be in possession of crack cocaine. He has since been charged with both offences and remanded into custody.

Shortly afterwards, PC Simm arrested an adult female for breaching a Community Protection Notice (CPN). The notice had originally been issued in response to her persistent anti-social and criminal behaviour within the city centre over a number of years. She has now been charged with seven separate breaches of the CPN and remanded to appear at court tomorrow morning. Police will also be seeking a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) to place further restrictions on her conduct and prevent continued offending.

Continuing the team’s proactive approach, PC Duffy later identified and detained a suspected drug dealer within the gardens who was in breach of existing court bail conditions by being present in the area. He is also due to appear before the courts tomorrow.

The day concluded with a further arrest by PC McKenzie involving a male who was displaying drunk and disorderly behaviour before midday. During the incident, the male became violent, assaulting PC McKenzie by punching and biting him. As a result of the assault, PC McKenzie required hospital treatment. The offender remains in custody and is awaiting interview.

Sergeant Jon Wyatt said: “This has been a relentless day for the team, who have dealt with a wide range of offending while maintaining a visible presence in Piccadilly Gardens. The assault on PC McKenzie is completely unacceptable and highlights the risks officers face daily. That said, the team continues to show resilience and determination, and we will not let incidents like this deter us — if anything, it only strengthens our resolve to keep applying that extra jab of enforcement where it’s needed most.”

Greater Manchester Police remain committed to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in Piccadilly Gardens, ensuring it is a safe and welcoming space for the public.