Borough Beat blog: Extra officers on duty to tackle firework-related ASB

SINCE my last column I am pleased to report that local neighbourhood teams are growing, writes Insp Caroline Bakewell.
Insp Caroline Bakewell, Neighbourhood Policing Team, north and south RotherhamInsp Caroline Bakewell, Neighbourhood Policing Team, north and south Rotherham
Insp Caroline Bakewell, Neighbourhood Policing Team, north and south Rotherham

SINCE my last column I am pleased to report that local neighbourhood teams are growing. 

North and south Rotherham have both welcomed additional police officers, and further recruits will be joining us in the new year. 

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One of our new officers on the south team is PC Sarah Kelk. PC Kelk was previously a PCSO on the team for 12 years, and it is great to have Sarah back on the team in her new role.

This is positive news for the communities of Rotherham as we continue working with colleagues at RMBC to tackle the root cause of the issues that matter most to you. Great news!

Operation Shield was launched in Swinton earlier this year. This was a fantastic success with over 800 homes issued with the Smartwater kits to deter thieves and protect your valuables. 

It has proved such a hit in Swinton that we have now rolled this out to Rawmarsh in the north of Rotherham and Dinnington in the south, as well as Boston Castle and Kimberworth in the central area.

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If you live in one of these areas and are interested please email [email protected] if you live in Rawmarsh, [email protected] if you live in Dinnington or [email protected] if you live in Boston Castle or Kimberworth. 

This is a free service, one of your local policing team will visit you at home and set this up.  

Both of my teams have been working proactively in your neighbourhoods targeting ASB, weapons and drugs. 

You may see our posts on social media under #OpAlligator. There have been some fantastic results since I last wrote. 

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Licensed premises across both areas have been visited with arrests made for possession of offensive weapons and drugs. 

Warrants have been executed with drugs seized and offenders prosecuted. We’ve also been carrying out a lot more proactive patrols, so please come and chat if you see us!

We continue to target off road bikes alongside the force’s off road bike team. I know that this is an issue that affects large areas of the community in Rotherham and would encourage you to continue reporting to us. If you wish to remain anonymous, please use Crimestoppers.

The dark nights are closing in now and Hallowe’en and Bonfire Night is almost upon us. This can be an enjoyable time for most but we acknowledge that this busy period can cause issues for people due to a small minority causing ASB. 

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I can reassure you that we have extra officers on duty over the dark nights period tackling firework related anti-social behaviour. 

Please ensure that you keep your homes locked and secure and the safest way to enjoy a bonfire and fireworks is attending an organised display.