Police are 'cracking' down on violent crime in Ashfield

The neighbourhood policing team is responding to concerns raised by residents in the latest What Matters survey, a quarterly on-line consultation exercise by Nottinghamshire Police that is open to all local residents.

Although incidents of more serious violence have fallen slightly by 3.3 per cent over the last 12 months, residents have expressed concern about a more recent post-lockdown increase in offences.

Inspector Mark Dickson, district commander for Ashfield, said: “People have told us that they are concerned about incidents of violent crime and we are determined to respond to those concerns.

“As a result we been granted some additional resources to increase proactive policing patrols and to stop and search people and vehicles we believe to be carrying weapons or drugs.

“We have also launched a robust management strategy in the area to intervene early with people we believe are at increased risk of involvement in violent crime.

"Our aim here is to prevent violent offences before they happen by educating and encouraging people before we need to take enforcement action.

“Working with local partners we have identified several adults and children who we think are at risk.

"We make regular contact with them to remind them of the dangers of carrying weapons and to identify what support they need to change the direction of their lives.

“Ultimately this is a carrot and stick approach. Where possible we’ll offer people as many carrots as we can, but won’t hesitate to use a very large stick if they choose not to engage with us.”

Coun Helen Ann-Smith, cabinet member for community safety at Ashfield District Council, said: “We have been working closely with the police throughout July, and already seen some positive results on our joint working to tackle drug issues.

“It is fantastic news that Ashfield will be getting an extra eight police officers in October. We will fully support the police wherever we can on their new priorities."

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