Three day operation helps cut acquisitive crime in Chesterfield

A three night operation to tackle acquisitive crime in the south of Chesterfield has led to a big drop in the number of reported crimes in the last week.

Operation Alien was carried out overnight from Sunday, January 17 to Tuesday, January 19 with Safer Neighbourhoods officers patrolling hotspot areas.

The team carried out both covert patrols using undercover officers and high visibility patrols to reassure members of the public and deter offenders.

Following the pro-active late night patrols the number of reported acquisitive crimes fell by more than 70 per cent across the south Chesterfield Safer Neighbourhood area which includes Holmebrook, Rother, Hasland and Walton.

The operation was carried out in response to an increase in acquisitive crime in the area and concerns raised by local residents.

During the patrols a man in his 30s was arrested following an attempted theft of several hundred pounds worth of alcohol and cigarettes from a convenience store in Boythorpe.

He has been charged with theft and a public order offence and is currently on police bail.

PC Steve Simmons, of the Holmebrook and Rother SNT, said: "We looked at the crime trends and listened to what residents in the area were telling us and responded by carrying out this pro-active operation.

"The team has worked very hard and we are pleased with the huge drop in the number of reported incidents since the operation.

"We want to reassure the residents that we are committed to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour and would urge anyone with any information to get in touch with us and we will act on it."

A drugs warrant was also executed in the area after the team received information about an address on Birchwood Crescent.

The raid, which took place on Thursday, January 21, led to the seizure of cannabis, martial arts equipment, three samurai swords and a number of mobile phones from the flat.

Two men, both in their 20s were arrested and charged with possession of a class B drug.

If you have any information on crime in your area call police on 0345 123 3333 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.