Action against drug dealing, anti-social behaviour and shoplifting

Dear Resident,

Your Central Neighbourhood Policing Team continues to focus on the priorities identified by local communities:

Here's an update on some of the recent work that has taken place to address these concerns.

Street-level drug dealing in Millfield:

Officers have taken significant action to tackle drug-related crime and the anti-social behaviour associated with it.

Following concerns raised by local residents, the team successfully applied for a three-month Closure Order for Bake Me 1 in Gladstone Street. The order means the premises must remain closed and cannot trade during this period.

In similar enforcement activity, the Mini DIY store in Lincoln Road was also made subject to a three-month Closure Order following concerns about drug dealing linked to the premises. Officers also executed three warrants at properties connected to the business.

The team has also arrested two men on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs. Investigations remain ongoing.

Tackling anti-social behaviour in public spaces:

Neighbourhood PCSOs continue to carry out regular patrols across the area, alongside joint activity with partner agencies.

Recently, officers took action against a woman responsible for repeated anti-social behaviour after she breached a Community Protection Notice on multiple occasions. She was arrested, charged and appeared at court, where she was given a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order containing strict conditions designed to prevent further offending and protect those living and working along Lincoln Road.

Supporting businesses and tackling shoplifting:

High-visibility patrols continue in and around Maskew Avenue Retail Park, with PCSOs regularly engaging with businesses to understand their concerns and provide reassurance.

The ongoing work of the Spree Offender Team, which targets prolific offenders, together with improvements in the investigation process, has helped increase confidence among businesses to report offences. This is enabling officers to build a clearer picture of the issues affecting retailers and take targeted action.

As part of this proactive approach, neighbourhood officers on patrol in Taverners Road recently arrested a known shoplifter.

Your neighbourhood policing team remains committed to tackling crime, anti-social behaviour and repeat offending, while working closely with residents, businesses and partner organisations to make our communities safer.

Thank you for your continued support.

Kind regards,

Tim Goddard
Communications officer