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Image thanks to West Midlands Police
Almost 300 motorists were caught by motorway cops during a week-long campaign tackling distracted driving and mobile phone use behind the wheel.
A driver eating porridge on the M6, a woman applying make-up at the wheel, and a biker steering one-handed while he took a call were among the most shocking incidents encountered by the Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG).
In total, 289 people were found using a hand-held device or driving carelessly during the May 23-26 campaign.
First time offenders were offered the chance to attend a driver improvement course, while others were fined and had licences endorsed with three points or face a day in court on suspicion of careless driving.
CMPG Inspector Sion Hathaway said: “Some of the things our officers saw were absolutely staggering. In the space of just a few minutes we caught a man eating porridge and a lady applying lipstick both while driving on the M6 at 50mph.
“We also stopped a motorcyclist riding his bike with his helmet resting on the top of his head in order to take a phone call.
“A number of motorists who were stopped for using their mobile phones were also found to have no insurance…so their vehicles were seized.”
The campaign saw officers in both marked and unmarked vehicles on the lookout for motorists using mobiles to make calls, text or browse the internet.
Between 2013 and 2015, a total of 7,713 drivers in the West Midlands were prosecuted for driving while using a mobile phone.
Insp Hathaway added: “Yet again it’s very disappointing to see that many people just don’t seem to be getting the message that using your phone, or any mobile device, while driving is extremely dangerous.
“If you use your phone when driving your reaction times are similar to those of someone over the drink drive limit…no call can be so urgent that it’s worth putting lives at risk.”
DEPUTY Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Arnold is encouraging victims of crime across the Tamworth area to find out more about the free advice and support available for them from the Staffordshire Victim Gateway.
Staffordshire is the first area in the country to pioneer the new Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)-led approach which is unique because it is based locally. Offering a tailored service for victims, the Gateway is able to give timely advice and emotional and practical support to victims in the way that suits them best.
For the first time support is being offered to all victims of crime and the Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner and Citizens Advice Bureau are keen to encourage victims who are vulnerable or who do not feel they can report crime to police to contact the Gateway for support.
The appeal was made at an event, organised by the Staffordshire North and Stoke-on-Trent Citizens Advice Bureau to showcase the work of the Victim Gateway. The event highlighted the work of the Gateway which was officially launched by national Victims’ Commissioner Baroness Newlove in Staffordshire in September 2015.
Latest figures show that by the end of May over 36,000 people were offered help through the Victim Gateway, an improvement on the 23,000 people helped in the 12 months prior to the Gateway being launched.
Sue Arnold, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire, said: “This free service has really benefitted a number of victims of crime throughout Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent already.
“The advice and support given by the Victim Gateway will positively impact people’s lives because of the additional benefits victims will experience, such as better accessibility and local knowledge.
“Previously, the very services that were there to support victims and witnesses were anything but user-friendly, meaning the experience people have of the courts and criminal justice system was as taxing and traumatic as the original incident. The Staffordshire Victim Gateway has been a significant change that fully focuses the attention on victims, where it belongs.”
Matthew Ellis, Police and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire, said: “The Gateway offers a ‘one-stop’ access to services and gives direction, protection and support to victims, witnesses and their families.
“The Gateway ensures that the system fits the victim rather than the victim having to fit around the system. It puts victims at the heart of decision-making, meaning that they are treated as individuals.”
Left to right is Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Arnold, Specialist and Equalities manager for CAB Jude Hawes, Victim Gateway Project Co-ordinator Jo Moss and Simon Harris, CEO of Staffordshire North and Stoke-on-Trent CAB
Simon Harris, Chief Executive of Staffordshire North and Stoke-on-Trent CAB, said: “We have been very busy over the last 9 months developing the service, and identifying areas of work we still have to carry out.
“That work includes encouraging people to self-refer to the service, because the service is available not just to people who have reported their crime to the police but to anyone who has been a victim of crime. We urge people who may be reluctant to report the crime to the police but who none the less want support to get in touch.”
The Victim Gateway contract was awarded to the CAB as part of work by Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis to provide better support for victims and put their needs back at the centre of the criminal justice system.
To find out more about the work of the Police and Crime Commissioner visit www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk.
More information on the Victim Gateway is available at www.staffsvictimsgateway.org.uk or by ringing 0330 0881 339.
OFFICERS from Tamworth Local Policing Team are appealing for information after a burglary at a Tamworth Store.
STAFFORDSHIRE’S Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Ellis, is bringing back for a second year the popular Space programme for Summer 2016.
The Space programme was originally an activities scheme led by police in Staffordshire during the 80’s and 90’s to provide fun activities for young people during the school summer holiday with an aim to improve engagement with young people. The new version of Space, coordinated by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, has similar objectives and will be aimed at 11 and 17 year-olds. The activities will be planned and delivered by a wider collaboration of public and voluntary organisations, including the Police.
Mr Ellis has pledged money to fund activities with an aim to increase skills, improve health and general wellbeing by creating opportunities to engage with young people positively. Activities will include sporting events, hair and beauty classes, arts and crafts and music production.
The Space scheme will run between Monday 25 July and Friday 2 September and will cover areas across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
Mr Ellis said: “I am delighted that the Space programme is returning in 2016. Last year Space saw more than 13,300 attendances by young people across Staffordshire at over 580 activities and I want this year’s programme to be even bigger.
“The Space programme is all about providing a positive experience for young people and opportunity to engage with public and voluntary sector organisations.
“After Space 2015 people got in touch to ask to volunteer to help Space in 2016 and we want to harness that energy, enthusiasm and passion to make a difference in communities and to young people’s lives.
“Work is underway to see how best we can channel the enthusiasm and interest of those potential volunteers.”
More information, including a calendar of events will be available over the coming weeks. Keep checking www.staffordshirespace.uk for updates. If you are interested in volunteering please email [email protected]
POLICE have issued a warning to local residents after bikes were stolen from a shed in the Borough
The shed was broken into at a property on Kettlebrook Road, Tamworth.
It happened sometime between midnight and 7:15am today, Wednesday 1 June when offenders forced the padlock to gain entry to the shed before stealing two bikes, a white Boardman Hybrid and a white Carrera Subway.
Police ask local residents to warn their neighbours to be on their guard and to make sure their properties, including sheds and garages, are as secure as possible at all times.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Staffordsahire Police on 101 quoting incident number 88 of 1 June.
You can also report crime by contacting the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
POLICE have said that they will be taking every step to ensure those subject to football banning orders do not attempt to travel to any of the UEFA championship matches that will be hosted in France.
In Staffordshire there are currently 38 people who have received a football banning order by the courts that carry a minimum duration of three years. In the West Midlands force area, 160 people have been issues with the order.
They are not only given to people convicted of violence or disorder but those who commit a football-related offence such as fighting or damaging property in a pub whilst watching a match.
Each of those persons with an order will be required to surrender their passport, barring exceptional circumstances, for the duration of the tournament.
Police have warned those who ignore the conditions of their order will be arrested and taken to court where they face a jail term of up to six months or fine rising to £5,000.
Superintendent Mick Boyle, head of operational services at Staffordshire Police, said: “We are determined that those who have been issued with banning orders for football related offences adhere to the terms of those orders.
“Great strides have been made in keeping football matches safe for genuine fans and in preventing the hooligan element from following British teams abroad and giving them and our country a bad name.
“Letters have been sent to everyone who has a football banning order informing them of their responsibilities in terms of passport surrender. Any that don’t comply will be arrested and put before the courts where they could face up to six months in jail.”
Staffordshire Police say that months of planning have been carried out to ensure that communities experience a safe and enjoyable UEFA championship.
High visibility police teams will be out and about in town and city centres to offer reassurance to those who will be enjoying watching the tournament in pubs and clubs and to deal with any issues that arise.
Staffordshire Police have given the following advice to fans:
People planning to enjoy watching the championship matches at local venues, or gatherings at friends’ homes, are encouraged to also plan ahead.
Arrange how you are going to get home before you go out, organise a lift or book a taxi in advance.
Never drink or drug drive, leave the car at home. The potential consequences of killing yourself or someone else is not worth the risk. Remember you could still be over the limit the following morning. People mistakenly think if they have eaten or had some sleep they will be fit to drive.
When you’re out, keep your valuables safe, don’t leave your mobile on a table and keep your wallet/purse/money on you.
And, importantly don’t get involved in arguments, particularly if you’ve had a drink. No one wins an argument, just walk away.
A DRINK and drug driving campaign to target irresponsible and dangerous drivers begins on 1 June in a bid to bring down the number of fatal and serious road traffic collisions and protect road users.
The national campaign, co-ordinated through the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), will run across the county throughout June.
Inspector Mat Derrick, from Staffordshire Police’s tactical support department, said: “Every day in Staffordshire we continue our aim to reduce fatal and serious road traffic collisions and protect road users.
“Driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs is both anti-social and dangerous, with potentially devastating short and long term consequences.
“We always carry out tests throughout the year on anyone involved in a road traffic collision that we attend, any motorist committing a traffic offence, or anyone who is suspected of drink or drug driving.
“During this campaign we will also be generally stopping motorists and carrying out tests. Mistakenly people think after a night of drinking or using drugs that if they have slept or have eaten they are fit to drive. Our operations will not just be at night, they will also be run in the mornings and throughout the day.”
Motorists are urged to think before they drink, and consider how long it will be before getting behind the wheel. The more someone consumes, the longer it takes to clear the body. Everyone should make sure they are fit to drive and not risk their own and the lives of others.
People are urged to plan how they will get home before a night out; whether to not drink, decide on a designated driver, or pre-book a taxi.
Insp Derrick continued: “A drink or taking drugs and then driving is not worth badly injuring or killing someone. It wrecks lives and families. That family could be yours.
“You also risk penalty points and automatic loss of licence for a minimum of 12 months, a hefty fine and for more serious offences, being sent to prison and having a criminal record. There will also be financial consequences with future insurance premiums. If you rely on being able to drive for your work, you could also end up without a job.”
Some local venues who sell alcohol will be taking part in the ‘I’ll Be Des’ Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership scheme where they will be offering free or reduced price soft drinks to designated drivers. For details of premises taking part in the scheme near you visit their website.
If you have concerns about anyone you believe drives whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, please contact police on 101.
You can also make a report by contacting the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
Staffordshire Police have agreed to be part of a major television series that will be aired on UKTV in autumn 2016 and spring 2017.
Production company Raw Cut will follow Staffordshire Police, as they fight crime and provide reassurance to the county’s diverse and contrasting communities in a series of 16, one hour long episodes.
Following a successful pilot scheme trialling the use of body worn video cameras, Staffordshire Police officers are now wearing them on patrol to increase levels of transparency, helping protect both our officers and the communities they serve as well as bringing offenders to justice.
This innovative use of body worn video cameras along with observational footage of police work across the county, will feature in the landmark television series.
Jane Sawyers, Chief Constable, Staffordshire Police said: “It is really important to be able to showcase the outstanding day to day work of our officers, often in challenging circumstances.
So often, examples of great policing and exceptional detective work go unnoticed and this landmark series will give us an opportunity to showcase not only these aspects of police work but the effective and necessary day to day work of all officers throughout this great county
It will demonstrate to the whole country, the transparency, integrity and professionalism of the Staffordshire Police Force as we carry out our duties and fulfil our objectives to keep our communities safe and reassured”
Jane Lomas Executive Producer Raw Cut said: “We are thrilled to have secured access to one of the most forward-thinking police forces in the country.
Staffordshire Police employ 3,500 people with over 1,750 police officers, 200 PCSOs and 300 special constables.
They’re more than just a police force, they’re a family. We are proud to be able to be making this show for Really giving viewers a chance to see this police family in action as they face the daily challenges of fighting crime”
Emma Ayech, General Manager, Really, said: “The series of films will give our viewers a brand new insight into what it is truly like to be on the frontline of policing in contemporary Britain. It will demonstrate how all the departments work together to serve the community and deliver an outstanding service to the people of Staffordshire.”
TAMWORTH residents are being invited to join a new panel to shape the work of local policing in their community.
The Tamworth Safer Neighbourhood Panel launched earlier this year under plans by Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Ellis, to shine the spotlight on local policing and make Staffordshire’s Police Service the most open, transparent and ethical in the UK.
Although there has been a good response to the panel, there are still several places for new volunteers who can find out more by visiting http://www.tamworth.gov.uk/safer-neighbourhood-panel
The panel will examine, challenge and shape the work of police at the most local level. It will hold the Local Policing Team Commander to account as well as looking at wider criminal justice and community safety issues in their area.
Local residents and councillors sit on the panels with magistrates bringing additional expertise. Panels influence local policing and community safety, scrutinise the work done by police in their area, give feedback to communities and examine the impact of community resolutions and restorative justice.
Mr Ellis said: “This is a real opportunity for Tamworth people to play a part in holding all responsible for policing in their area to account and I’d urge residents to get involved.
“I make no apology for believing that truly local policing, and the public playing a part in influencing that policing is vital.
“You can shape policing at the most local level in your community by joining the Safer Neighbourhood Panel.
“The new spotlight on local policing performance that these panels will bring is invaluable in adding to the rigour I have introduced to overseeing policing.”
The panels follow the success of the county-wide Ethics, Transparency and Audit Panel (ETAP) which was established by the PCC in 2013. The ETAP is made up of trained members of the public and monitors different aspects of performance and standards in policing across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
ETAP has received national recognition for its work on the police use of Taser, stop and search and crime recording in Staffordshire.
Councillor Stephen Doyle, Tamworth Borough Council Cabinet member for Communities and Wellbeing, said: “The new Safer Neighbourhood Panel gives Tamworth residents a perfect opportunity to get involved and have their say on how their neighbourhoods are policed, as well as raising issues of concern.
“It will help to make Tamworth an even safer place to live, work and visit – and I would encourage residents to join in and make their voices heard.”
Volunteers for Safer Neighbourhood Panel roles must be aged over 18, but otherwise the PCC is interested in attracting people from all walks of life irrespective of age, disability and ethnic background. Expenses will be paid.
For more information visit http://www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/safer-neighbourhood-panels/
SUE Arnold is looking forward to continuing her work as Staffordshire’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner following her re-appointment today, Monday 23 May.
Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis proposed the re-appointment which was confirmed following a meeting of the Police and Crime Panel this afternoon.
Mrs Arnold was appointed Deputy PCC in November 2012 and has spearheaded work on behalf of the PCC to provide a revolutionary new approach to giving victims more effective, tailored support.
She’s also been instrumental in the successful introduction of the Police Cadets service across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent and led campaigns to tackle female genital mutilation, modern slavery, domestic abuse and business crime.
Mr Ellis said: “Sue has brought real drive to her role over the past three and a half years and a new approach to all of the areas I have asked her to lead on.
“She has led the development of the Police Cadets on my behalf which has enhanced the lives of many young people across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.”
Mrs Arnold said: “I’m really looking forward to continuing the important work we have started with the challenge now to take the PCC ‘working model’ on to its next stage of development.
“Personally, I feel very positive about its future direction, in particular as I see how PCCs can make that crucial difference to local communities.
“Much work is ahead of us. I will relish the challenge to serve the people of Staffordshire and help produce results that deliver a safer place to live and work.”
Police and Crime Panel Chairman Frank Chapman said: “The Panel recognise the valuable contribution that Mrs Arnold has made to the work of the Police and Crime Commissioner, especially in the area of domestic abuse, and are pleased to confirm her re-appointment.”
For more information on the new approach to victims through the Staffordshire Victim Gateway visit http://www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/staffordshire-victim-gateway/
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