Six forces join together to tackle rural crime in the region

Police from six forces have joined together to tackle crime in rural areas.
Officers and volunteers from six police forces come together to tackle rural crime.Officers and volunteers from six police forces come together to tackle rural crime.
Officers and volunteers from six police forces come together to tackle rural crime.

For the 15th time they came together in a bid to tackle criminals operating and travelling between counties in the Nrth of England.

30 officers and volunteers from Cleveland, North Yorkshire, Durham, Northumbria, Lancashire and Cumbria took part in Operation Checkpoint and carried out early visits to farms and remote areas.

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The operation occurred overnight from Wednesday, September 13, until the early hours of this morning and the aim was to gather intelligence between forces to prevent and disrupt cross border criminal activity to provide reassurance to those living in rural communities.

The operation involved visiting 20 farms, 13 vehicles were stopped which resulted in four being searched which led to one arrest.

A 47-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drug related offences and has been released under investigation.

Cleveland’s Police and Crime Commissioner Barry Coppinger, said: “Operation Checkpoint demonstrates our absolute commitment to ensuring people living in our rural communities feel safe and supported, and that we continue to make them feel safe.

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“I would like to thank each and every officer and volunteer who took part in the operation and it was great to see so many special constables taking part, especially as some have only been with us for a few months. I hope they gained valuable experience and enjoyed taking part in this as for many it was their first operation.”

Superintendent Beverley Gill from Cleveland Police, added: “Last night was another successful night for Operation Checkpoint and is yet another great example of the teamwork involved from all forces to tackle the serious issues around rural crime. The operation sends out a clear message to those tempted to travel to or through Cleveland for criminal purposes that we will not tolerate it and you will be dealt with accordingly.

“I would also like to highlight our Rural Watch scheme which we would encourage members of the public to join via our successful Cleveland Connected initiative."

Visit www.cleveland.police.uk and click on Get Involved to sign up.