Hartlepool Police seize drugs worth more than £3million during 2020

Hartlepool’s Neighbourhood Policing Team played a key role in Operation Phoenix, the Force’s operation to improve public service, help vulnerable residents, tackle serious violence and prevent crime.

Highlights of the operation were the executions of warrants at two addresses in Kendal Road which led to the seizure of drugs and weapons. Weapons were also confiscated in Oxford Road, while a cannabis farm worth around £60,000 was dismantled in Rugby Street.

Since April 2020 the team has:

- made 216 arrests

- carried out 220 Stop Searches

- raided 30 addresses

- submitted more than 2,000 intelligence logs (to help build a local picture of crime and to problem solve)

- seized a large number of knives and weapons to protect against harm.

Throughout the year, officers and community support officers have been working as part of Hartlepool Community Safety Team in tackling antisocial behaviour and used drones and new technology to engage with schoolchildren through live streaming sessions.

During the year, Chief Inspector Pete Graham was again recognised by the North East Retail Crime Partnership for work to support local businesses, while this month has seen a day of action in the Burn Valley Ward to help reduce burglaries.

Hartlepool’s Inspector Mark Haworth said: “I’m proud of all the team has achieved this year and recognise the contribution of the excellent partnerships we have with other organisations, also focussed on improving our community.

“The quantity of drugs and weapons we have seized and the arrests made show we are disrupting criminality but perhaps less visible is the community trust and support we have built up. This is just as crucial to reduce crime and make our streets safer.

“We’d like to thank all those members of the public who have worked with us and shared their concerns and their information and ask them to continue to do so. We can always be contacted on 101. Alternatively people can report anonymously through Crimestoppers, 0800 555 111.

“Hartlepool is a fantastic place to work and live and in 2021 we look forward to continuing to work with local people to keep them and their families safe.”

Support your Mail and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on Pools and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.

.