Man arrested in Hartlepool on suspicion of theft and possession of a knife during police patrols over Easter

Police have confirmed a 38-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft and possession of bladed article overnight on Thursday, April 1, as patrols in the Foggy Furze, Fens and Rossmere areas of Hartlepool continued over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

The man has since been released under investigation as enquires continue.

Hartlepool Neighbourhood Police Team said in statement on April 6: “Police continued to patrol the Foggy Furze, Fens and Rossmere ward areas of the town over the long Bank Holiday weekend.

“Both uniformed patrols and Plain Clothes officers were in action from our neighbourhoods teams, Special Constabulary and CID – working together to deter and disrupt criminal activity.

“Overnight on Thursday April 1 a 38-year-old man was arrested in the Catcote Road area on suspicion of theft; possession of a bladed article in a public place and handling stolen goods. He was released under investigation while enquiries continue.

“Patrols continue and residents are reminded that if they see suspicious activity to contact police on 101.”

Police presence in Foggy Furze was stepped up at the end of March after residents voiced concerns over suspected burglaries and thefts.

Plain clothes officers supplemented regular evening patrols to respond to the issues in the Foggy Furze and Rural West areas of the town and a number of arrests took place earlier last month.

Following two further arrests on April 1, Hartlepool’s Temporary Chief Inspector Mark Haworth said: “Officers are working round the clock to deliver community-based policing.

"This work will continue.”