Tackling crime on the Belfield beat

David Gurr, Neighbourhood Constable with Yvonne Pickering, Crime Reduction Advisor for Rochdale Borough Council and John Taylor, Chief Inspector at Rochdale Division

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Crime fighting partners joined forces to deliver a beat sweep on Belfield to talk to local residents and gather intelligence on crimes that are concerning them in the area.

Last Friday (27 September) police officers treaded the streets alongside council environmental enforcement and crime reductions officers and community fire safety advisors. The crime fighting crew noted down fly-tipping, litter and anti-social behaviour hotspots, fire hazards and tip offs relating to suspected drug dealing and other illegal activities.

Councillor Sultan Ali, cabinet member for strengthening communities at Rochdale Borough Council, added: “Residents are our best crime fighters of all. Their reports and intelligence are crucial in helping us cut crime and bring offenders to justice.

John Taylor, Chief Inspector for Criminal Justice and Partnerships at GMP Rochdale Division, said: “The beat sweep was designed to provide a high visibility presence in the area of Belfield, to reassure communities that we’re committed to tackling the crimes that concern them most.

“It was an opportunity for us to spend time with local residents and businesses, chat through their concerns and give out some vital crime prevention advice.”

The day of action was co-ordinated by Rochdale Safer Communities Partnership that works together to reduce crime across the borough.

As a result of the day, fly-tipping and stray bins have been removed, two fixed penalty notices have been served on properties for piling rubbish, and addresses have received formal written warnings relating to dog fouling. Fire safety advisors completed home fire risk assessments and fitted free smoke alarms into properties. PCSOs gave out crime prevention packs including free window locks and personal safety alarms.

“When touring the estates we’re still seeing evidence of insecure properties; windows left open and doors unlocked whether they be front, garage or shed doors. A third of burglaries are a result of properties being left insecure. Please don’t advertise your home to burglars, remember to lock all windows and doors, even whilst in the house, and keep them out,” continued Chief Inspector Taylor.

“Sometimes communities are scared of repercussions after engaging with agencies on this issue, but days like this bring us closer to our customers and we can be seen to be acting and listening.”