Message From Inspector 1144 Head

Good afternoon all,

I appreciate that I am providing updates in quick succession; however, I remain committed to keeping our communities informed about significant incidents and investigations, as well as highlighting matters of local interest and concern.

Gainsborough Trading Cards Burglary

Following excellent work by the investigating officer and the West Lindsey District Council CCTV team, a suspect was identified in connection with this offence. The individual has since been interviewed and released on bail while further enquiries continue.

Deliberate Fires and Arson Investigations

A number of deliberate fire incidents reported in Gainsborough, predominantly within the Uphills area, are believed to be linked to a trend circulating on social media. While the motivation behind these incidents is concerning, the reckless nature of arson and the potential risk posed to property and life cannot be understated.

Several individuals have been identified and, given the ages of those involved, the Neighbourhood Policing Team will be working alongside West Lindsey District Council to address the matter through the staged Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) process.

In relation to the incident near Tealby, Market Rasen, where a derelict house and barn were targeted, fortunately no structural damage occurred and only a small quantity of hay was set alight. The investigating officer has received information from members of the public and is currently assessing the available evidence to determine whether there are sufficient grounds to identify suspects or progress the investigation further.

While the recent wet weather may help reduce the likelihood of similar incidents, I would continue to encourage residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to both Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue and Lincolnshire Police.

Robbery – Co-op Store, Morton
On 17 August, officers responded to reports of a robbery at the Co-op store on Front Street, Morton. It was reported that two males wearing balaclavas entered the store and stole the cash till.

Within 40 minutes of the initial report, officers had identified and forced entry to a nearby address, where two males were arrested on suspicion of involvement in the offence. Officers also recovered the stolen till and cash. A third male located at the property was arrested in relation to unrelated outstanding matters.

The investigation into this remains ongoing with all 3 males released on bail.

Burglary in Progress – Binbrook
On 17 August, with the assistance of members of the public, officers detained three individuals at Binbrook Technical Park. All three were arrested on suspicion of burglary and have since been released on bail while further enquiries are carried out.

Assault – King Street, Market Rasen
Officers attended reports of an assault in progress on King Street, Market Rasen. Upon arrival, the suspect attempted to leave the area on a bicycle. Officers immediately pursued the individual and, through the use of authorised tactics, safely brought the incident to a conclusion and detained the suspect.

The arrest was highly visible and may have appeared dramatic to those who witnessed it due to both the tactical options employed and the behaviour displayed by the suspect throughout the incident.

Adam Lobley, 40,  of King Street, Market Rasen, has since been charged with two counts of assault by beating and one count of assaulting an emergency worker. He is due to appear before Lincoln Magistrates' Court on 17 September.

Warrants Executed – Heaton Street, Gainsborough
On the morning of 19 August, residents will have noticed a significant police presence on Heaton Street, Gainsborough. Officers executed two warrants, gaining rapid entry to both properties.

As a result, a quantity of drugs was seized. Four individuals were arrested and subsequently released on bail while investigations continue.

Over the past three years, more than 100 drug warrants have been executed, predominantly by the Neighbourhood Policing Team. This demonstrates our continued commitment to tackling drug-related crime, disrupting organised criminality, and working alongside our communities to make our neighbourhoods safer places to live and work.

Apply now to become a police officer | Lincolnshire Police

For residents in West Lindsey who are considering a career in policing, I would be happy to offer advice and guidance throughout the application process. I can be contacted at:
Michael.Head@lincs.police.uk

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