CRIME is continuing to fall in Derbyshire, according to the latest figures published by the police.
During the first six months of the year, overall crime fell by six
per cent across the county compared to the same period last year –
meaning nearly 2,000 fewer victims of crime.
Between April 1 and September 30 crime fell from 34,898 to 32,934 offences.
House burglary is down by 17 per cent, vehicle crime nine per cent and criminal damage nine per cent.
Violent crime is also bucking the trend with a 15 per cent reduction equating to a thousand fewer victims of crime.
What hasn’t been factored in of course, is the number of crimes that do not get reported for whatever reason!!
Showing posts with label police. Show all posts
Showing posts with label police. Show all posts
Friday, October 14, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
VAL to sort out drunks and troublemakers
POLICE in Buxton have
been making use of a new van which has been brought in to keep night
time revellers in the High Peak and Derbyshire Dales safe.
A Violence, Alcohol harm and Licensing (VAL) van is being deployed in town centres across the High Peak and Dales.
It is one of four vans purchased by Derbyshire Fire and Rescue
Service which are being used across the county as part of its
responsibility for safety at licensed premises.
Kitted out with both static and mobile CCTV cameras, the van provides
officers with a mobile base to work from and aims to prevent
alcohol-related anti-social behaviour and violent crime.
It can also help police to detect offences by providing officers with footage which could be used as evidence.
And I thought the budgets were being cut? Obviously there must be a
strong argument for buying vans and making redundancies – I just can’t
see it!
Friday, September 30, 2011
Police checks at Stanage and Longstone
CHECKS were carried out on 54 vehicles in the Longstone Edge and Stanage areas of the Peak District in a crackdown on illegal off-road bikers.
Police checked that all the vehicles they stopped had insurance, tax and MOTs and checked that they were safe.
A total of 47 were off-road motorbikes and officers spoke to them about Operation Blackbrook, which is a long running scheme to reduce illegal biking.
Police checked that all the vehicles they stopped had insurance, tax and MOTs and checked that they were safe.
A total of 47 were off-road motorbikes and officers spoke to them about Operation Blackbrook, which is a long running scheme to reduce illegal biking.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
What's with the warnings? Ashbourne's got it wrong!
The following extract from a Derbyshire based website suggests that prospective road law abusers should come to Ashbourne.
"Defects were found on school buses during a safety crackdown in Ashbourne.
Operation Safedrive took place at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School and involved police officers and other agencies.
The team inspected 15 buses and coaches as they arrived at school and found two buses with defects that needed to be fixed as soon as possible.
Another bus had to be towed back to the depot for immediate repairs after officers found two wheel nuts which had sheared off.
The team then set up outside Ashbourne Fire Station and handed out a mixture of warnings, notices and fixed penalty notices to:
*6 drivers for using their mobile phone while driving
*3 drivers for having tyre defects
*2 for number plate offences
*1 driver for not being in proper control of the vehicle
*1 for not having a valid MOT
Twenty-eight drivers were stopped for not wearing a seatbelt.
In addition, VOSA issued five immediate and two delayed prohibition notices for defects on vehicles which seriously affected their roadworthiness.
Seven vehicles were also found to have no road tax."
PC Ian Salsbury said: “The check was extremely positive, reassuring the people of Ashbourne of our and our partners commitment to road safety. I would like to thank all the agencies involved in the checks.”
When parking offences carry an unavoidable and substantial fine imposed by lowly wardens, how can it be right that our expensive police force spend time giving "warnings" to motorists?
Surely, the crimes drawn to our attention here require instant and punitive action.
"Book 'em Danno"
"Defects were found on school buses during a safety crackdown in Ashbourne.
Operation Safedrive took place at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School and involved police officers and other agencies.
The team inspected 15 buses and coaches as they arrived at school and found two buses with defects that needed to be fixed as soon as possible.
Another bus had to be towed back to the depot for immediate repairs after officers found two wheel nuts which had sheared off.
The team then set up outside Ashbourne Fire Station and handed out a mixture of warnings, notices and fixed penalty notices to:
*6 drivers for using their mobile phone while driving
*3 drivers for having tyre defects
*2 for number plate offences
*1 driver for not being in proper control of the vehicle
*1 for not having a valid MOT
Twenty-eight drivers were stopped for not wearing a seatbelt.
In addition, VOSA issued five immediate and two delayed prohibition notices for defects on vehicles which seriously affected their roadworthiness.
Seven vehicles were also found to have no road tax."
PC Ian Salsbury said: “The check was extremely positive, reassuring the people of Ashbourne of our and our partners commitment to road safety. I would like to thank all the agencies involved in the checks.”
When parking offences carry an unavoidable and substantial fine imposed by lowly wardens, how can it be right that our expensive police force spend time giving "warnings" to motorists?
Surely, the crimes drawn to our attention here require instant and punitive action.
"Book 'em Danno"
Fight to stop sale of Ripley Town Hall
Campaigners have begun a fight to stop a council selling off a town hall in Derbyshire.
Ripley Town Hall was put up for sale by Amber Valley Borough Council in June.
The authority said selling the 130-year-old building and offices next door would help it save £2m over the next two years.
A petition with more than 1,200 signatures calls for ownership of the hall to be transferred to Ripley Town Council instead.
Ripley Town
Council said it should be offered the building for free as it gave it
to the borough council when the authority was created in the 1970s.
In a statement it said that if the town hall was sold then the police
office, the registrar’s office, the town council’s offices, and the
council chamber would have to be relocated, which would be “extremely
costly and very problematic”.
The council said it was putting the 2.8-acre site on the market
because the authority no longer needed such a large building. Then why
not lease the excess to other businesses?
The sale of the property will be discussed at a council meeting on Wednesday.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Volunteer speedwatch a success
POLICE in Hathersage are thanking volunteers for helping to spread the word on road safety.
It is after more than 200 letters have been sent out to motorists found speeding through the area during 2011.
They were found during Community Speed Watch checks carried out by
the Hathersage Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team and a team of 27
volunteers from throughout the area.
Between January and September this year a total of 36 checks have
taken place as part of the scheme in many different villages including Stoney Middleton, Calver, Grindleford, Bradwell, Foolow, Eyam, Froggat, Curbar and Hathersage.
Community Speed Watch was set up in the Hathersage
area in November 2010 to target residents concerns about issues with
speeding and to give people a chance to work alongside officers on road
safety issues.
Signs, paid for by the Safer Derbyshire Dales Community Safety
Partnership, are put up to advise drivers about the checks and anyone
caught speeding is sent a letter which advises them about their speed
and reminds them about the limit.
Data recorded through the scheme may also help officers to identify locations for future speed enforcement checks.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Internet Costs Police Thousands
The chairman of Derbyshire’s Police Federation has called for phone and internet firms to rethink how much they charge police to access their networks.
Derbyshire Police paid out almost £104,000 in the past financial year to check records during investigations.
The companies said they were only recovering costs and charges were agreed with police in advance.
But Insp Mark Pickard, who has led the federation since February, is calling for a more charitable approach.
Mobile phone and internet records have become increasingly central to police investigations over the past decade.
But phone companies and internet service providers said the cost of making information available to forces was “significant”.
According to the phone companies they cost recover an agreed fee from the police depending on the nature of the enquiry. These fees only cover costs and this is supported by legislation under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act.
The Home Office said it was satisfied with its current guidance which requires companies to prove their charges are appropriate.
Perhaps the police should recover the costs of an investigation against the guilty party or would that infringe on his/hers human rights?
Friday, April 27, 2007
Dales and Peak crime rates fall
CRIME in the Derbyshire Dales has fallen for the forth year running, according to new figures released for Derbyshire Constabulary B division.
The latest yearly crime figures for the division cover both the High Peak and Derbyshire Dales and show that the area also has strong detection rates.
Speaking of the results B Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Roger Flint, said: “I am absolutely delighted that recorded crime has fallen yet again.
“A small reduction it may be, but to see a year on year decrease is excellent news for the community we serve.
“Our detection rates are also pleasing, overall crime 28 per cent, 19 per cent dwelling burglary; 28 per cent vehicle crime, 48 per cent violent crime and 16.5 per cent criminal damage, are good figures to build on in the forthcoming year.
“Our work with local communities, crime reduction partners and the development of our safer neighbourhood teams is crucial if we are to meet the significant challenges of the year ahead.
“The High Peak and Derbyshire Dales areas continue to be a safe place to live, work and visit. However we cannot afford to be complacent if we are to maintain this performance.”
Well if 28 per cent detection rate is something to be proud of then there is no hope for any of us.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-26 15:04:54
The latest yearly crime figures for the division cover both the High Peak and Derbyshire Dales and show that the area also has strong detection rates.
Speaking of the results B Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Roger Flint, said: “I am absolutely delighted that recorded crime has fallen yet again.
“A small reduction it may be, but to see a year on year decrease is excellent news for the community we serve.
“Our detection rates are also pleasing, overall crime 28 per cent, 19 per cent dwelling burglary; 28 per cent vehicle crime, 48 per cent violent crime and 16.5 per cent criminal damage, are good figures to build on in the forthcoming year.
“Our work with local communities, crime reduction partners and the development of our safer neighbourhood teams is crucial if we are to meet the significant challenges of the year ahead.
“The High Peak and Derbyshire Dales areas continue to be a safe place to live, work and visit. However we cannot afford to be complacent if we are to maintain this performance.”
Well if 28 per cent detection rate is something to be proud of then there is no hope for any of us.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-26 15:04:54
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Cannabis factories in Buxton
Police in Buxton have uncovered three cannabis 'factories' at addresses in St James Street, Clough St and Dale Road in Buxton town centre within the past week.
The officer in charge of the investigations, Detective Inspector Dean Wheeldon, said: "We acted on information we had received from members of the local community and executed drugs warrants at three separate town centre addresses.
"At each address we uncovered sophisticated cannabis cultivation equipment together with many hundreds of fully grown cannabis plants that were potentially worth thousands of pounds."
DI Wheeldon added: "We are appealing to the public, and in particular local landlords, to help us combat the problems caused by drug misuse.
"People should be on the lookout for premises which appear to have had windows and doors totally boarded up or have material or closed curtains at windows to prevent people looking inside, air vents appearing from the side or attics of premises and the distinctive smell of cannabis.
"Advice leaflets on these telltale signs are available free of charge from the enquiry office at Buxton Police Station."
The charity DrugScope recently issued a report stating that nationally, the number of cannabis factories being uncovered by police has trebled over the last two years with an average of three 'factories' raided each day in the last six months.
The charity says more than 60 per cent of cannabis sold in the UK was grown here, compared with only 11 per cent just 10 years ago.
Detective Inspector Wheeldon added: "We will always act on any information we receive and we encourage members of the public to tell us about any suspicions they may have.
"We would rather have a report that turns out to be false than miss out on the chance of arresting a suspect.
"Anyone who suspects that any premises are being used for growing cannabis should contact their local police on 0845 123 33 33 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 500111."
Yeh man, like far out.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-05 03:20:24
The officer in charge of the investigations, Detective Inspector Dean Wheeldon, said: "We acted on information we had received from members of the local community and executed drugs warrants at three separate town centre addresses.
"At each address we uncovered sophisticated cannabis cultivation equipment together with many hundreds of fully grown cannabis plants that were potentially worth thousands of pounds."
DI Wheeldon added: "We are appealing to the public, and in particular local landlords, to help us combat the problems caused by drug misuse.
"People should be on the lookout for premises which appear to have had windows and doors totally boarded up or have material or closed curtains at windows to prevent people looking inside, air vents appearing from the side or attics of premises and the distinctive smell of cannabis.
"Advice leaflets on these telltale signs are available free of charge from the enquiry office at Buxton Police Station."
The charity DrugScope recently issued a report stating that nationally, the number of cannabis factories being uncovered by police has trebled over the last two years with an average of three 'factories' raided each day in the last six months.
The charity says more than 60 per cent of cannabis sold in the UK was grown here, compared with only 11 per cent just 10 years ago.
Detective Inspector Wheeldon added: "We will always act on any information we receive and we encourage members of the public to tell us about any suspicions they may have.
"We would rather have a report that turns out to be false than miss out on the chance of arresting a suspect.
"Anyone who suspects that any premises are being used for growing cannabis should contact their local police on 0845 123 33 33 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 500111."
Yeh man, like far out.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-05 03:20:24
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Derby kids go undercover to beat underage drinking
Children will be asked to try to buy alcohol in Derby pubs as part of a police crackdown on premises that sell booze to underage revellers.
An army of teenage test purchasers will begin visiting premises around the city to see if staff challenge them about their age.
Police said the move was in response to an increase in drink-related anti-social behaviour caused by young people.
They warn that licensees who serve alcohol to the young customers could face court action and that pubs and bars which consistently fail the test could have their licences suspended.
The scheme, in which the children will be accompanied by undercover officers, is due to begin later this month.
Derby licensing officer Sergeant Katie Hobbs said: "We know there's an issue with underage people trying to buy alcohol, and that coincides with anti-social behaviour.
"More young people are wanting to drink, and that causes problems for other people. It also causes health problems for themselves and we want to be seen to be doing something pro-active in preventing that.
"We really don't want pubs to fail. If we can get everywhere in Derby to pass, it will be fantastic.
"When it gets around and people know that the police are targeting underage sales, more underage people will get turned away."
Children aged 15 and 16 will be used in the scheme and volunteers have been picked from city schools and other organisations.
During visits, they will be accompanied by two plain-clothes officers and will try to buy drinks. They will admit their age if asked by staff.
Sgt Hobbs warned that bar staff who failed the test could personally face a fixed penalty fine of £80. Managers and licensees caught selling to the test purchasers could end up in court.
The scheme will initially run for six months and police have warned that premises which fail the test three times during that period could have their licence suspended.
Craig Sharp-Weir, deputy chairman of PubWatch and general manager of Barracuda, in the Strand, said he welcomed the campaign.
He said special scanners had been installed at his bar, which can spot fake ID.
"I don't see the police campaign as a threat. At the end of the day we don't want underage drinkers in here," Mr Sharp-Weir said. "It's no use kidding yourself that some people don't slip through the net but all we can do is our very best."
I'll drink to that!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-04 12:48:53
An army of teenage test purchasers will begin visiting premises around the city to see if staff challenge them about their age.
Police said the move was in response to an increase in drink-related anti-social behaviour caused by young people.
They warn that licensees who serve alcohol to the young customers could face court action and that pubs and bars which consistently fail the test could have their licences suspended.
The scheme, in which the children will be accompanied by undercover officers, is due to begin later this month.
Derby licensing officer Sergeant Katie Hobbs said: "We know there's an issue with underage people trying to buy alcohol, and that coincides with anti-social behaviour.
"More young people are wanting to drink, and that causes problems for other people. It also causes health problems for themselves and we want to be seen to be doing something pro-active in preventing that.
"We really don't want pubs to fail. If we can get everywhere in Derby to pass, it will be fantastic.
"When it gets around and people know that the police are targeting underage sales, more underage people will get turned away."
Children aged 15 and 16 will be used in the scheme and volunteers have been picked from city schools and other organisations.
During visits, they will be accompanied by two plain-clothes officers and will try to buy drinks. They will admit their age if asked by staff.
Sgt Hobbs warned that bar staff who failed the test could personally face a fixed penalty fine of £80. Managers and licensees caught selling to the test purchasers could end up in court.
The scheme will initially run for six months and police have warned that premises which fail the test three times during that period could have their licence suspended.
Craig Sharp-Weir, deputy chairman of PubWatch and general manager of Barracuda, in the Strand, said he welcomed the campaign.
He said special scanners had been installed at his bar, which can spot fake ID.
"I don't see the police campaign as a threat. At the end of the day we don't want underage drinkers in here," Mr Sharp-Weir said. "It's no use kidding yourself that some people don't slip through the net but all we can do is our very best."
I'll drink to that!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-04 12:48:53
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Derbyshire top cop defends force
One of Derbyshire's top police officers has defended the force's reputation after a third officer in six weeks was convicted of a crime.
As previously reported, PC David Stoll was given a six-month jail sentence, suspended for two years, for misconduct.
He denied misconduct in public office but was found guilty after a trial at Nottingham Crown Court.
Earlier this month, former PC Mark Cutherbertson was jailed for nine months for lying in an attempt to dodge a speeding fine while he was still in the Derbyshire force.
Another former officer, Stephen Smith, 48, was also fined £1,200 after pleading guilty to passing on confidential information.
Assistant Chief Constable Peter Goodman yesterday defended his force.
He said: "We have over 2,000 officers in Derbyshire Constabulary, the overwhelming majority of whom are hard-working, seriously committed officers.
"If you look at those convictions, all are for very different things and if you look at the details, most of them are as a result of investigations carried out by the force.
"Like any organisation, we have a minority of employees that are bad apples and we are working hard to weed them out."
Two other police officers have also been arrested this month.
Sergeant Alistair Kenworthy was arrested following an allegation that he sexually assaulted a woman in a pub. He was suspended following an incident which is alleged to have taken place during Ashbourne's Shrovetide football celebrations last month.
Detective Inspector Louis Martin was also questioned by Derbyshire police colleagues and is subject to an ongoing investigation into alleged misconduct.
But no doubt Derbyshire Police will win some meaningless award this year to show how "good" they are. What about Bent Force of the Year or Old Bill to Old Lag Award.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-01 03:14:12
As previously reported, PC David Stoll was given a six-month jail sentence, suspended for two years, for misconduct.
He denied misconduct in public office but was found guilty after a trial at Nottingham Crown Court.
Earlier this month, former PC Mark Cutherbertson was jailed for nine months for lying in an attempt to dodge a speeding fine while he was still in the Derbyshire force.
Another former officer, Stephen Smith, 48, was also fined £1,200 after pleading guilty to passing on confidential information.
Assistant Chief Constable Peter Goodman yesterday defended his force.
He said: "We have over 2,000 officers in Derbyshire Constabulary, the overwhelming majority of whom are hard-working, seriously committed officers.
"If you look at those convictions, all are for very different things and if you look at the details, most of them are as a result of investigations carried out by the force.
"Like any organisation, we have a minority of employees that are bad apples and we are working hard to weed them out."
Two other police officers have also been arrested this month.
Sergeant Alistair Kenworthy was arrested following an allegation that he sexually assaulted a woman in a pub. He was suspended following an incident which is alleged to have taken place during Ashbourne's Shrovetide football celebrations last month.
Detective Inspector Louis Martin was also questioned by Derbyshire police colleagues and is subject to an ongoing investigation into alleged misconduct.
But no doubt Derbyshire Police will win some meaningless award this year to show how "good" they are. What about Bent Force of the Year or Old Bill to Old Lag Award.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-01 03:14:12
Alcohol ban all over town
Boozy binges in Macclesfield’s streets and parks may soon be stamped out after the police were given power to seize alcohol from anti-social drinkers in the outer reaches of the town.
The centre’s alcohol ban implemented in 2002 has been extended in a bid to clampdown on alcohol-fuelled crime and behaviour, but is not aimed at law-abiding citizens.
In operation from Monday, April 30, the new order allows officers to confiscate alcohol from anyone acting irresponsibly and offers discretionary powers to deal with anti-social drinking in this area.
It is not an offence to drink alcohol in a designated public place, although police can request an individual not to drink there and seize it.
The new no-drinking zone will now be bounded to the north by Westminster Road, Coare Street, Beech Lane and Hibel Road; to the east by Fence Avenue, Buxton Road, Cranford Avenue, Brookfield Lane, Black Road, Gunco Lane and London Road; to the south by Star Lane, Moss Lane, Stamford Road to Ryles Park Road, and Park Lane; to the west by Oxford Road, Cumberland Street and Bollinbrook Road.
The Alcohol Designation Order for an extended area within Macclesfield town was approved this week by the council’s licensing committee, following extensive public consultation.
More than 8,000 cards were delivered to businesses and residents within the designated area asking for views.
Around 1,120 responses were received via card, letter or email – 1,098 were in support and just 25 against.
Chairman Coun Paul Whiteley stressed the prohibition was not a blanket ban and would not mean popular events such as Party in the Park would be ‘dry’.
He added: "This does not place any restrictions on responsible citizens acting in a responsible manner. It only gives police more convenience to address those acting in an anti-social manner and easier powers to take the cause of that trouble away – open alcohol containers."
The massive extension has been welcomed by Inspector Gareth Woods, Head of Macclesfield’s Neighbourhood Policing Unit.
He said: "This is really about recognising there is a link between anti-social behaviour and people drinking alcohol, whether they are underage or not, and in this day and age there are areas where it is inappropriate to drink alcohol.
"The overall aim of this is to set standards, educate people and my long term hope is that the problem will disappear.
"It makes it illegal to drink anti-socially and enhances the powers we’ve already got."
He said policing would be intelligence-led. And with that sentence all credability was lost.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-01 02:48:44
The centre’s alcohol ban implemented in 2002 has been extended in a bid to clampdown on alcohol-fuelled crime and behaviour, but is not aimed at law-abiding citizens.
In operation from Monday, April 30, the new order allows officers to confiscate alcohol from anyone acting irresponsibly and offers discretionary powers to deal with anti-social drinking in this area.
It is not an offence to drink alcohol in a designated public place, although police can request an individual not to drink there and seize it.
The new no-drinking zone will now be bounded to the north by Westminster Road, Coare Street, Beech Lane and Hibel Road; to the east by Fence Avenue, Buxton Road, Cranford Avenue, Brookfield Lane, Black Road, Gunco Lane and London Road; to the south by Star Lane, Moss Lane, Stamford Road to Ryles Park Road, and Park Lane; to the west by Oxford Road, Cumberland Street and Bollinbrook Road.
The Alcohol Designation Order for an extended area within Macclesfield town was approved this week by the council’s licensing committee, following extensive public consultation.
More than 8,000 cards were delivered to businesses and residents within the designated area asking for views.
Around 1,120 responses were received via card, letter or email – 1,098 were in support and just 25 against.
Chairman Coun Paul Whiteley stressed the prohibition was not a blanket ban and would not mean popular events such as Party in the Park would be ‘dry’.
He added: "This does not place any restrictions on responsible citizens acting in a responsible manner. It only gives police more convenience to address those acting in an anti-social manner and easier powers to take the cause of that trouble away – open alcohol containers."
The massive extension has been welcomed by Inspector Gareth Woods, Head of Macclesfield’s Neighbourhood Policing Unit.
He said: "This is really about recognising there is a link between anti-social behaviour and people drinking alcohol, whether they are underage or not, and in this day and age there are areas where it is inappropriate to drink alcohol.
"The overall aim of this is to set standards, educate people and my long term hope is that the problem will disappear.
"It makes it illegal to drink anti-socially and enhances the powers we’ve already got."
He said policing would be intelligence-led. And with that sentence all credability was lost.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-01 02:48:44
Cat and Fiddle crackdown
Police are to increase patrols on Derbyshire's infamous Cat and Fiddle road at the weekend to protect bikers.
Officers will ensure motorcyclists and other drivers abide by the 50mph limit on the A537, between Macclesfield and Buxton, from Saturday, as they take advantage of the lighter evenings.
Using the Cheshire Police aeroplane and mobile speed cameras, they will be out every weekend during the spring and summer in a bid to halt the number of accidents and raise some cash.
The road, named after the Cat and Fiddle pub near its highest point, was branded Britain's most dangerous two years ago because of the number of people - the vast majority of them bikers - who died on it.
Since 1999 - when 15 people were killed or seriously injured on the road - police have campaigned to make it safer.
There were eight people killed or seriously hurt in both 2000 and 2001, then in 2003, no one was killed, although five were badly injured. One died during 2004 and four were seriously injured, while in 2005, three were badly hurt and no one was killed.
Cheshire Police have unveiled a safety campaign for the A537 and neighbouring A54, promising to crack down on dangerous driving as well as educating bikers about the road's dangers.
Police motorcyclists as well as officers in unmarked cars will patrol the road, while mobile speed cameras will also be used. Sgt Carl Bailey said: "This campaign is based on enforcement and education.
"We have been carrying it out for the past five years and we know it is effective. The fact that the A537 has lost its tag of being Britain's most dangerous road is directly linked."
He added: "We will be checking that road users observe the 50mph limit on the A537 and the 60mph limit on the A54, and looking out for people crossing the solid white lines, which are on long stretches of these roads.
"The lines are there because visibility is limited, or the road itself creates a potential hazard."
Police and firefighters will set up safety presentations on the car park of the Cat and Fiddle and encourage riders to sign up for `Bikesafe' courses.
I wonder if the Cat and Fiddle pub is open again. Last time I was up there on my Honda 50cc it was closed.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-01 02:26:13
Officers will ensure motorcyclists and other drivers abide by the 50mph limit on the A537, between Macclesfield and Buxton, from Saturday, as they take advantage of the lighter evenings.
Using the Cheshire Police aeroplane and mobile speed cameras, they will be out every weekend during the spring and summer in a bid to halt the number of accidents and raise some cash.
The road, named after the Cat and Fiddle pub near its highest point, was branded Britain's most dangerous two years ago because of the number of people - the vast majority of them bikers - who died on it.
Since 1999 - when 15 people were killed or seriously injured on the road - police have campaigned to make it safer.
There were eight people killed or seriously hurt in both 2000 and 2001, then in 2003, no one was killed, although five were badly injured. One died during 2004 and four were seriously injured, while in 2005, three were badly hurt and no one was killed.
Cheshire Police have unveiled a safety campaign for the A537 and neighbouring A54, promising to crack down on dangerous driving as well as educating bikers about the road's dangers.
Police motorcyclists as well as officers in unmarked cars will patrol the road, while mobile speed cameras will also be used. Sgt Carl Bailey said: "This campaign is based on enforcement and education.
"We have been carrying it out for the past five years and we know it is effective. The fact that the A537 has lost its tag of being Britain's most dangerous road is directly linked."
He added: "We will be checking that road users observe the 50mph limit on the A537 and the 60mph limit on the A54, and looking out for people crossing the solid white lines, which are on long stretches of these roads.
"The lines are there because visibility is limited, or the road itself creates a potential hazard."
Police and firefighters will set up safety presentations on the car park of the Cat and Fiddle and encourage riders to sign up for `Bikesafe' courses.
I wonder if the Cat and Fiddle pub is open again. Last time I was up there on my Honda 50cc it was closed.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-04-01 02:26:13
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Suspended Sentence for Cartoon Copper
A policeman who was watching the Disney film Finding Nemo while a prisoner hanged himself has been given a suspended prison sentence.
Pc David Stoll, 49, who was found guilty of misconduct in a public office, was jailed for six months suspended for a year.
Stoll was the custody suite warden at St Mary's Wharf police station, Derby, when Craig Boyd died in March 2004.
Judge Michael Stokes criticised the "slack" regime at the police station.
Stoll, who had 23 years' experience in the Derbyshire force, ignored hourly checks on prisoners.
A jury at Nottingham Crown Court was shown CCTV video in which officers on duty at the time of Mr Boyd's death watched the Disney cartoon.
Judge Stokes told Stoll: "You have yourself accepted that the conduct of which the jury have convicted you would be 'unforgivable' on the part of a detention officer in the position you occupied."
He added: "This was far from being a properly-run custody suite.
"What we have seen is not merely a casual approach to duty but a lack of proper systems and a failure to deal properly and responsibly with detainees.
"It is not conceivable that senior officers could have been aware of the slackness and inappropriate behaviour that existed in this custody suite."
Two other officers, Sgt Nigel Rogers, 42, and Sgt Christopher Linscott, 43, were acquitted.
There use to be a saying of making the punishment fit the crime. I'm not sure what went wrong here.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-31 03:43:39
Pc David Stoll, 49, who was found guilty of misconduct in a public office, was jailed for six months suspended for a year.
Stoll was the custody suite warden at St Mary's Wharf police station, Derby, when Craig Boyd died in March 2004.
Judge Michael Stokes criticised the "slack" regime at the police station.
Stoll, who had 23 years' experience in the Derbyshire force, ignored hourly checks on prisoners.
A jury at Nottingham Crown Court was shown CCTV video in which officers on duty at the time of Mr Boyd's death watched the Disney cartoon.
Judge Stokes told Stoll: "You have yourself accepted that the conduct of which the jury have convicted you would be 'unforgivable' on the part of a detention officer in the position you occupied."
He added: "This was far from being a properly-run custody suite.
"What we have seen is not merely a casual approach to duty but a lack of proper systems and a failure to deal properly and responsibly with detainees.
"It is not conceivable that senior officers could have been aware of the slackness and inappropriate behaviour that existed in this custody suite."
Two other officers, Sgt Nigel Rogers, 42, and Sgt Christopher Linscott, 43, were acquitted.
There use to be a saying of making the punishment fit the crime. I'm not sure what went wrong here.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-31 03:43:39
Saturday, March 24, 2007
New Age of Football Hooligan
A new gang of school-aged football hooligans have been causing trouble at Derby County matches. Yobs as young as 13 had become involved in incidents at several games in the second half of this season.
PC Allan Guy, of Operation Cabby, which was set up to deal with Derbyshire hooligans, warned that firm action - including football banning orders - would be used to tackle the thugs. He urged parents to keep an eye on exactly where their children were going during Rams matches.
He said: "We've started getting a big influx of youngsters ranging from 13 to 17 years old getting involved. This lot aren't really going into pubs, they're going around in groups trying to goad people. They are also doing it when police are escorting other fans.
"I can't think of any particular reason why the number of kids is increasing this season. Maybe it's because Derby's doing well. It could also be gangs on the street simply attaching themselves to football."
Some members of established Derby hooligan gangs such as the Derby Lunatic Fringe and Derby Orphans have received banning orders stopping them attending matches. Now police must track the Happy Nappy Gang.
Unlike the older hooligans, who generally only target other gangs, PC Guy said there had been cases of the new group attacking innocent fans. The latest incident occurred during Saturday's home game against Cardiff when the youth group tried to get at, and provoke, a confrontation with away fans as they were being escorted to the railway station.
Police managed to hold them back and one teenager was arrested to prevent a breach of the peace but there have been arrests at other fixtures.
There are currently 54 hooligans banned from going to Derby and England matches. Make that 55 'er indoors has stopped me going to Israel this weekend. she didn't think the trip was kosher.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-23 03:59:28
PC Allan Guy, of Operation Cabby, which was set up to deal with Derbyshire hooligans, warned that firm action - including football banning orders - would be used to tackle the thugs. He urged parents to keep an eye on exactly where their children were going during Rams matches.
He said: "We've started getting a big influx of youngsters ranging from 13 to 17 years old getting involved. This lot aren't really going into pubs, they're going around in groups trying to goad people. They are also doing it when police are escorting other fans.
"I can't think of any particular reason why the number of kids is increasing this season. Maybe it's because Derby's doing well. It could also be gangs on the street simply attaching themselves to football."
Some members of established Derby hooligan gangs such as the Derby Lunatic Fringe and Derby Orphans have received banning orders stopping them attending matches. Now police must track the Happy Nappy Gang.
Unlike the older hooligans, who generally only target other gangs, PC Guy said there had been cases of the new group attacking innocent fans. The latest incident occurred during Saturday's home game against Cardiff when the youth group tried to get at, and provoke, a confrontation with away fans as they were being escorted to the railway station.
Police managed to hold them back and one teenager was arrested to prevent a breach of the peace but there have been arrests at other fixtures.
There are currently 54 hooligans banned from going to Derby and England matches. Make that 55 'er indoors has stopped me going to Israel this weekend. she didn't think the trip was kosher.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-23 03:59:28
Friday, March 23, 2007
Sudbury Prison Open again!
A child killer who was jailed for life for drowning his four-month-old daughter is the latest convict to abscond from Sudbury Prison.
Derbyshire police have issued a photograph of David Chapman after he failed to return to the open prison on Sunday.
Chapman, 55, from London, was sentenced at the Old Bailey, London, in 1983 for killing his daughter.
He is described as white, 5ft 8ins tall, of thin build, with short, grey hair and brown eyes.
He has a tattoo on his left arm and uses aliases of Aubery Ashby and Ashby Aubery (very imaginative) and is a known cross dresser. His favourite attire is a a black arrow patterned dress with a capital P on the back.
During 2005-6, 76 prisoners absconded from Sudbury Prison, according to Home Office statistics.
Five killers have gone on the run in the past six months.
A spokeswoman for Derbyshire police said: "We've notified police forces where Chapman's known to have connections, as well as relatives and the media.
"Anyone with information on Chapman's whereabouts should contact the police immediately.
"We would never recommend that a member of the public approaches an absconded prisoner."
Information should be passed to Derbyshire police on 0845 123 3333.
Meanwhile back at the prison the party goes on.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-23 03:28:35
Derbyshire police have issued a photograph of David Chapman after he failed to return to the open prison on Sunday.
Chapman, 55, from London, was sentenced at the Old Bailey, London, in 1983 for killing his daughter.
He is described as white, 5ft 8ins tall, of thin build, with short, grey hair and brown eyes.
He has a tattoo on his left arm and uses aliases of Aubery Ashby and Ashby Aubery (very imaginative) and is a known cross dresser. His favourite attire is a a black arrow patterned dress with a capital P on the back.
During 2005-6, 76 prisoners absconded from Sudbury Prison, according to Home Office statistics.
Five killers have gone on the run in the past six months.
A spokeswoman for Derbyshire police said: "We've notified police forces where Chapman's known to have connections, as well as relatives and the media.
"Anyone with information on Chapman's whereabouts should contact the police immediately.
"We would never recommend that a member of the public approaches an absconded prisoner."
Information should be passed to Derbyshire police on 0845 123 3333.
Meanwhile back at the prison the party goes on.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-23 03:28:35
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Sex in the Station
Matlock Bus Station is the new den of sin after Matlock Town Council have received complaints that the building is littered with littered with condoms and the toilets are being used as a meeting place for sex.
The police have been informed.
Matlock Town Cllr Barry Hopkinson, who was contacted on the issue by a member of the public, said: “It was very upsetting for the woman concerned.
“She said she had been into the toilets one evening and found men and women in there together.
“If this is going on then there needs to be something done, whether that means CCTV or other measures.”
In sketches of the Matlock Masterplan – the district council’s blueprint for how it wants the town to develop – the authority planned for the bus station to be relocated.
But some believe the current site would have to be retained as a turning circle for buses after traffic over Matlock Bridge becomes one-way.
Cllr Hopkinson added: “We’ve got the situation where we don’t know if it’s worth spending money on the bus station, but by all accounts the building might be staying, which is an absolute fiasco.
“If the building stays then this issue needs tackling.”
Inspector Paul Corton of Matlock Police said: “I’m aware of a couple of incidents at the bus station reported to us by Matlock Town Council.
“One involved a man being in the ladies’ toilets and one involved condoms in the telephone box.
“In terms of criminality it’s not a particularly pleasant thing to find.
“Obviously concerns have been raised and officers are patrolling there.”
This adds a new meaning to ticket to ride.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-22 11:07:38
The police have been informed.
Matlock Town Cllr Barry Hopkinson, who was contacted on the issue by a member of the public, said: “It was very upsetting for the woman concerned.
“She said she had been into the toilets one evening and found men and women in there together.
“If this is going on then there needs to be something done, whether that means CCTV or other measures.”
In sketches of the Matlock Masterplan – the district council’s blueprint for how it wants the town to develop – the authority planned for the bus station to be relocated.
But some believe the current site would have to be retained as a turning circle for buses after traffic over Matlock Bridge becomes one-way.
Cllr Hopkinson added: “We’ve got the situation where we don’t know if it’s worth spending money on the bus station, but by all accounts the building might be staying, which is an absolute fiasco.
“If the building stays then this issue needs tackling.”
Inspector Paul Corton of Matlock Police said: “I’m aware of a couple of incidents at the bus station reported to us by Matlock Town Council.
“One involved a man being in the ladies’ toilets and one involved condoms in the telephone box.
“In terms of criminality it’s not a particularly pleasant thing to find.
“Obviously concerns have been raised and officers are patrolling there.”
This adds a new meaning to ticket to ride.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-22 11:07:38
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Speed Camera Locations
The Derbyshire Mobile Safety Camera Partnership has released the locations of the speed traps they will be using this week:
B6179 Ripley to Marehay
Street Lane, Denby
A6007 Codnor to Heanor
Upper Dunstead Road, Langley Mill
Corporation Road, Ilkeston
A608 Smalley
Ryknield Hill, Denby
A6 Bakewell
A6 Dove Holes
A632 Matlock
Kedleston Road, Derby
A5250 Burton Road, Littleover
Warwick Avenue, Derby
A514 Swadlincote
Hearthcote Road, Swadlincote
A6 Belper
A6 London Road, Derby
London Road, Shardlow
A6005 Draycott to Breaston
A515 Sudbury
A511 Station Road, Hatton
Castle Road, Church Gresley
B5353 Park Road, Newhall
B5353 Union Road, Swadlincote
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-20 01:33:05
B6179 Ripley to Marehay
Street Lane, Denby
A6007 Codnor to Heanor
Upper Dunstead Road, Langley Mill
Corporation Road, Ilkeston
A608 Smalley
Ryknield Hill, Denby
A6 Bakewell
A6 Dove Holes
A632 Matlock
Kedleston Road, Derby
A5250 Burton Road, Littleover
Warwick Avenue, Derby
A514 Swadlincote
Hearthcote Road, Swadlincote
A6 Belper
A6 London Road, Derby
London Road, Shardlow
A6005 Draycott to Breaston
A515 Sudbury
A511 Station Road, Hatton
Castle Road, Church Gresley
B5353 Park Road, Newhall
B5353 Union Road, Swadlincote
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-20 01:33:05
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Rocket supports campaign
Motorcycle legend 'Rocket' Ron Haslam has backed the Derbyshire Safety Camera Partnership in their quest to reduce casualties on the region's roads.
Ron and his son Leon Haslam, who is a current British Superbike star, have shown support for safety cameras and have backed the partnerships at two motorcycle events in the last few months.
Ron Haslam said: “Riding safely is vital – no matter how much experience you have. It is so important to be aware of your speed and the dangers around you, whether you are on the road or on the track.
“I am pleased to support an initiative that encourages bikers to enjoy what they do, but keep themselves and others safe.”
Rebecca Hampson, of Derbyshire Safety Camera Partnership said: “We are so grateful to Ron and Leon for their continued support for safety cameras and for our motorcycle safety campaign.
“We are delighted to be able to work so closely with two such well-respected and highly regarded motorcyclists.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-14 01:49:01
Ron and his son Leon Haslam, who is a current British Superbike star, have shown support for safety cameras and have backed the partnerships at two motorcycle events in the last few months.
Ron Haslam said: “Riding safely is vital – no matter how much experience you have. It is so important to be aware of your speed and the dangers around you, whether you are on the road or on the track.
“I am pleased to support an initiative that encourages bikers to enjoy what they do, but keep themselves and others safe.”
Rebecca Hampson, of Derbyshire Safety Camera Partnership said: “We are so grateful to Ron and Leon for their continued support for safety cameras and for our motorcycle safety campaign.
“We are delighted to be able to work so closely with two such well-respected and highly regarded motorcyclists.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-14 01:49:01
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Speed Camera Locations
The Derbyshire Safety Camera partnership has released the locations of mobile speed cameras in our area for the coming week. Mobile speed traps will be located on the following roads.
B600 Somercotes
B6179 Denby
Ryknield Hill, Denby
B6179 Ripley to Marehay
A6 Allestree
A6 Belper
A6 London Road, Derby
A6 Dove Holes
A623 Stoney Middleton
A632 Matlock
Boythorpe Road, Chesterfield
A6 Ashford in the Water
A6 Taddington to Buxton
A61 Shirland
B6175 North Wingfield
A623 Peak to Barmoor Clough
B6052 Whittington
Clowne Road, Stanfree
Kedleston Road, Derby
A5250 Burton Road, Littleover
Warwick Avenue, Derby
A514 Swadlincote
Hearthcote Road, Swadlincote
Blagreaves Lane, Derby
Stenson Road, Stenson Fields
Stenson Road, Derby
B5353 Park Road, Newhall
B5353 Union Road, Swadlincote
Main Road, Pye Bridge
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-12 13:22:00
B600 Somercotes
B6179 Denby
Ryknield Hill, Denby
B6179 Ripley to Marehay
A6 Allestree
A6 Belper
A6 London Road, Derby
A6 Dove Holes
A623 Stoney Middleton
A632 Matlock
Boythorpe Road, Chesterfield
A6 Ashford in the Water
A6 Taddington to Buxton
A61 Shirland
B6175 North Wingfield
A623 Peak to Barmoor Clough
B6052 Whittington
Clowne Road, Stanfree
Kedleston Road, Derby
A5250 Burton Road, Littleover
Warwick Avenue, Derby
A514 Swadlincote
Hearthcote Road, Swadlincote
Blagreaves Lane, Derby
Stenson Road, Stenson Fields
Stenson Road, Derby
B5353 Park Road, Newhall
B5353 Union Road, Swadlincote
Main Road, Pye Bridge
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-03-12 13:22:00
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