Three Officers, Three Arrests, Thirty Seconds

Officers from the Piccadilly Gardens Neighbourhood Policing Team have continued their proactive patrols in the area during the afternoons of yesterday and today, resulting in three arrests within just 30 seconds of entering the Gardens.

Sergeant Jon Wyatt, alongside PC Duffy and PC Marothi, each arrested one adult male for a range of offences including Possession With Intent to Supply Cannabis, Being Concerned in the Supply of Cannabis and Breach of Court Bail yesterday. Working in co-operation with council CCTV, officers were guided in and detained the three after they attempted to run away.

One male was remanded to court this morning after breaching court bail conditions. A second male has been charged and remanded in custody in relation to two separate drugs offences, including one historic offence and one linked to yesterday’s activity in Piccadilly Gardens.

The third male has been remanded to appear before court tomorrow after the CPS authorised charges relating to historic offences including Affray, Assault Emergency Worker, Criminal Damage and a Racially Aggravated Public Order offence. The individual has been a persistent issue for officers policing the city centre over recent months and this represents a further significant outcome in making the area safer.

Sergeant Jon Wyatt said:

“Our officers are continuing to proactively target those involved in criminality and anti-social behaviour in Piccadilly Gardens. These arrests demonstrate the impact visible patrols and positive action can have in disrupting offending and protecting the public. We know the concerns local residents, businesses and visitors have about crime in the area, and we remain committed to putting repeat offenders before the courts wherever possible. Thank you to those members of the public who have contacted us to report their concerns!”