News Release
Operation Iron steams on
Dated: 01 Apr 2011
The latest Operation Iron netted eight arrests during its latest phase in New York, Silverlink and Cobalt.
Officers from the North Shields Neighbourhood Policing Team carried out preplanned initiatives aimed at reducing crime and worked with partners to improve the area. Throughout the week community support officers carried out extra foot patrols.
Neighbourhood Inspector Geoff Cross said: "This operation has concentrated resources in specific areas and the results show it's been highly effective. We've had a positive response from local people and businesses, who have welcomed the additional activity, and felt reassured by the action we have taken.
"We carried out Operation Iron after speaking to residents to find out what their concerns are and then taking action."
Police responded to concerns from the community about drivers speeding and using mobiles while driving. Officers stopped six cars on Brookland Terrace, New York and gave drivers advice about speeding. On Lynn Road a further two vehicles were stopped after motorists were seen using their mobiles, they each were issued with a £60 fixed penalty notice plus three penalty points on their licence.
A big clean up saw 1.5 tonnes of litter removed from the Waggonways at the back of Silverlink with the help of North Tyneside Council's Waggonways Wardens and the Probation Service, using young offenders to help improve the open spaces.
Officers held a bike marking event at Cobalt Business Park and security marked bikes belonging to staff who work at the park in a bid to reduce bike theft. Plain clothes officers patrolled Silverlink Retail Park working with security staff to prevent shop theft.
Police patrols on the Metro system with officers working with Nexus staff helped to prevent anti-social behaviour and fare evasion. Officers seized alcohol and arrested two people, one for possessing heroin and the other for criminal damage to a Metro carriage.
Neighbourhood officers also spent time with young people, and invited Year 10 pupils from St Thomas More High Schools to come into North Shields Police Station and have a look around the police cells, which pupils and teaching staff found very interesting.
Cllr Glynis Barrie, cabinet member for Community Services and Safer Neighbourhoods, said: “North Tyneside is the safest metropolitan borough in the country.
“This initiative is an example of how, through our close partnership with Northumbria Police, we’re tackling the issues that matter to our residents.”
Anyone with information about crime or disorder where they live should contact their Neighbourhood Policing Team on 03456 043 043 ext 69191.