Arrests made and drugs and vehicles seized in week-long crime crackdown in Sunderland
Illegal cigarettes were also seized
Illegally ridden bikes and drugs have been seized and arrests made as part of a clampdown on crime in Houghton-le-Spring, Hetton-le-Hole and Easington Lane.
The week-long crackdown saw police officers deployed at green spaces and park areas which are known for illegal vehicle riding, using drone technology in the process.
A total of four bikes, two Sur-Ron and two motorbikes, were seized after they were identified as being suspected stolen or having no insurance.
A total of four stop-searches were carried out resulting in two arrests for possession of cannabis, one in the Copt Leigh area and another on Newbottle Street, with another seeing a person arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods on Sunderland Street in Houghton.
A Trojan Bus was also deployed with plain-clothed officers on hand to spot any ASB in the areas.
Joint visits were carried out with Sunderland City Council’s Trading Standards team, the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) and Immigration Enforcement, resulting in the seizure of over 300 illegal cigarettes. A closure order is being progressed for the business on North View Terrace in Chilton Moor.
Officers, supported by Police Cadets, delivered 400 Crimestoppers leaflets and carried out extensive community engagement across 10 large streets which have been identified as ASB hotspot and high-crime areas.
Superintendent Scott Cowie, of Northumbria Police’s Prevention department, said: “Policing is much more than just putting in front doors and making arrests, as this week of activity demonstrated. It’s also about strengthening our communities by listening to your concerns and acting upon them.
“Officers from a host of different teams were involved in the timetable of events as we made arrests for a variety of offences and boosted community engagement by speaking to people.
“We also targeted those using vehicles to carry out anti-social behaviour, which is something nobody should have to put up with.
“Alongside that, by working together with our local authority partners, we’re making sure that retailers in the area are abiding by the law.
“I’d like to thank each and every person who took part in the planning and execution of the week of activity. Our sincere hope is that we’ve been able to further build the local community’s trust.
“Rest assured, we will continue to be a visible presence in our communities and ensure we are here when the public need us the most.”
Michelle Coates, Community Safety Manager at Sunderland City Council, added: "This week of activity is a strong example of how effective partnership working helps keep our communities safe.
"Visibility, engagement and prevention are key to building sustainable community safety. Initiatives like targeted patrols, school engagement and community drop in events provide reassurance to residents while giving people the opportunity to raise concerns and access support. We will continue to work alongside our partners to listen to our communities and take action that makes a real difference to people’s everyday lives.”
John Anderson, Diversionary Activities Manager at Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We’re proud to have worked alongside Northumbria Police and partner agencies as part of this week of action.
“Through our Phoenix programme, we engage directly with young people using practical, firefighter training activities to help those taking part develop essential life skills, build confidence, and make safer choices for themselves and others.”