Local News

Arrests

Bank holiday arrest round up.

We hope that you all had a chance to rest and recharge over the Easter weekend.

Whilst most kept themselves out of trouble, the same can't be said for the 14 individuals who found themselves under arrest...

On Friday, we arrested a driver for being over the alcohol limit in East Dean.

Saturday saw 4 people arrested, for assault, criminal damage and drink driving.

Another driver was arrested in Heathfield on Sunday for also driving whilst over the alcohol limit, whilst 3 others were arrested for assault in Polegate, Uckfield and Crowborough.

There were a further 3 arrests made on Monday, for separate assault offences

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‍Speedwatch in Heathfield

Speedwatch is just one of the many ways we aim to reduce anti-social driving, such as speeding or dangerous driving, throughout the district.

Yes, we're still out catching criminals - policing comes in many different forms, and keeping our roads safe is one of our many priorities.

We aim to act as a deterrent, ensuring that drivers are following the speed limit in areas that are prone to speeding, as well as:

- Reduce death and injury on the roads.
- Improve the quality of life for local communities.
- Increase public awareness of inappropriate speed.

You can also report ASB driving via Operation Crackdown here Operation Crackdown

If a crime is in action, or there's an emergency, please call 999.‍

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Stalking Awareness Week
For National Stalking Awareness Week 2025 (22-25 April), our aim is to highlight the importance of recognising the signs, knowing what to do, and understanding how we are helping to protect victims of stalking.

We will be raising awareness throughout the week of not only how to recognise stalking and harassment, but also the channels available to ALL victims where they can report and find support.

Experiencing stalking can be incredibly distressing. It's crucial that individuals receive the support they need.

We take stalking reports very seriously, and we encourage anyone affected to come forward so we can provide help as soon as possible.

There is lots of support available for victims, many of which can be found here https://orlo.uk/Y3oUP

What is Stalking and Harassment?

Harassment may include:

- sending abusive text messages or images
- posting abusive messages on social media
- neighbour disputes that involve abusive behaviour or damage to property
- repeated antisocial behaviour
- making unwanted or offensive phone calls

It's harassment if the unwanted behaviour has happened two times or more and made you feel distressed or threatened.

Stalking may include:

- following someone
- going uninvited to their home
- hanging around somewhere they know the person often visits
- watching or spying on someone
- identity theft (signing-up to services, buying things in someone's name)
- writing or posting online about someone if it's unwanted or the person doesn't know

It's stalking if the unwanted behaviour has happened two times or more and made you feel scared, distressed or threatened.

It's important that you get the support you need if this is something you're experiencing. If you're not ready to report to us, that's OK, there are other organisations that can give you advice and help

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‍Anti-social behaviour
PCSO Park and PCSO Thompson patrolled Pevensey yesterday (23rd) on foot.

A visit was paid to the castle following reports of anti-social behaviour, with officers speaking with staff and providing crucial crime prevention advice.

Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, and our officers work hard to prevent and deter ASB every single day. It's crucial that the public continue reporting ASB to us, to help us direct our patrols where they're needed most.

For more info on ASB, including the various types and where to report it, see here  https://orlo.uk/QD2NV‍

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Motorcycle theft

Help protect your motorcycle, moped or scooter from theft

With warmer weather we see more bikes on the road, and subsequently more bike thefts . We urge moped, scooter or motorcycle owners to help reduce their risk of becoming a victim by taking steps to layer their security.

As well as locking, chaining and covering, owners may wish to consider these further security measures following reports of theft across the town this week.

- An alarm can be a deterrent to thieves - consider implementing an alarm system with tracking, immobilisation, anti-grab and movement sensors can help protect and trace your vehicle.

- Property mark the parts - marking as much of your bike as possible will make it more difficult for criminals to sell parts on, and therefore less attractive to steal; it will also help police identify parts and return recovered stolen bikes.

- When at home the best place to keep your motorcycle, moped or scooter is in your garage or shed - fit a garage door defender or upgrade garage door locks; consider garage and shed alarms as well as low level dusk to dawn lighting will also enhance security or by using a ground anchor which will also provide extra security.

Contact us

For non-emergency incidents or crime prevention advice, click  www.sussex.police.uk,  (If you report a crime online, we will assess it in the same way as a 101 call). 

Call 101 when you do not require an urgent response. In an emergency when life is threatened or there is immediate danger always call 999.  

Speak to us face-to-face at a police station or contact the local policing team at www.sussex.police.uk/area/your-area. 

If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired, you can contact us using TypeTalk on 18000 or by sending a text to 65999.

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Message Sent By

‍Ria Robertson

(Police, District Engagement Officer, Neighbourhood Policing Team)

Finally, a long weekend...
For some - but not for all!

Officers will continue to work around the clock this bank holiday weekend, patrolling our towns and keeping our communities safe.

Whatever you're up to during this long weekend, Sussex Police are here to protect you. ‍

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Arrests

There were a total of 20 arrests made last week in Wealden.
2 drivers were arrested in Hailsham and Uckfield, for driving under the influence of alcohol.
We arrested an individual for theft of a motor vehicle in Polegate.
5 individuals were arrested for assault in Polegate, Hellingly, Crowborough and Uckfield.
Other offences included criminal damage, GBH, and failure to appear at court.
See or hear something we need to know about? Report to us 24/7 online or by phoning us on 101.
Always call 999 in an emergency.‍

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Easter Holiday Engagement!

Knockhatch

On Tuesday (15th), our Neighbourhood Youth Officers were invited down to Knockhatch, Hailsham.

We had so much for the kids to get involved with. Whilst some of the kids were playing dress up with our riot gear, others were creating their own police profiles - giving us their police name and number (these got incredibly creative) and completing it with their own unique fingerprint. We also had families jumping into the back of the prison van and being shut inside, which made for a great photo opportunity!

The park was packed full of families enjoying the Easter Holidays, and we were blown away with the excitement and engagement from the hundreds of children who came over to see us.

Youth engagement is a crucial part of policing - helping the youngsters understand who we are and how to contact us in the event of an emergency. We too are human, and being able to show that side goes a long way in building trust through our communities.

Huge thanks to Knockhatch Adventure Park for having us, and for giving us a true 'zookeeper experience' by allowing us in with the Lemurs!

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‍Hailsham

While out on patrol, PCSO Thompson and PCSO Tay caught up with some of the youngsters at the skate park making the most of the Easter break.

They were more than happy to stop for a chat, and even showed us some of their impressive tricks!

We always love stopping for a chat whilst out and about, whether its discussing local issues or just a general chat.

Do stop us if you see us out and about!‍

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Rogue Traders

We're still seeing reports of rogue traders across the district.

Please make elderly or vulnerable family members, friends or neighbours aware.

Your safety matters. Take a moment to share these important guidelines on doorstep fraud.

Simple Rules to Remember

• Never let someone pressure you into quick decisions about your home.
• Legitimate businesses won't knock on your door uninvited to offer repairs or gardening.
• Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, it probably is.

Keep these simple rules in mind:

• Don't accept offers for house or garden work from unexpected visitors
• Never hand over money or sign documents for doorstep callers
• Keep your door closed and locked when strangers knock
• If someone asks to accompany you to the bank, say no

If someone shows up unannounced, don't feel pressured to let them in. Instead, ask them to come back when a family member or friend can be with you.

Report it! If you have been scammed, contact Action Fraud here https://orlo.uk/NGs12‍

Lets make it difficult for them to deceive others.‍

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Violence against women and girls

On Tuesday (15th), we were located at the Quintins Centre in Hailsham, raising awareness and providing support around Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).

We want our communities to feel heard, and be seen - yesterday was a great opportunity to do exactly that by providing details of the various schemes and support available:

- Ask for Angela is a vital safety initiative in bars and pubs. If you feel threatened or uncomfortable whilst out, simply approach the staff and ask for Angela. This discreet code phrase signals that you need assistance.

- Clares Law enables people to apply for information about their partner’s (or ex-partner’s) history if they’re concerned about their own safety.

- Support for victims and witnesses of stalking or harassment can be found through our website here

https://orlo.uk/vsxjX

The day was full of conversation and education. We were able to provide women with leaflets and personal safety devices for their own reassurance, and ensured that should anyone find themselves in a vulnerable position - they knew where they could go for help.

Contact us

For non-emergency incidents or crime prevention advice, click  www.sussex.police.uk,  (If you report a crime online, we will assess it in the same way as a 101 call). 

Call 101 when you do not require an urgent response. In an emergency when life is threatened or there is immediate danger always call 999.  

Speak to us face-to-face at a police station or contact the local policing team at www.sussex.police.uk/area/your-area. 

If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired, you can contact us using TypeTalk on 18000 or by sending a text to 65999.

Message Sent By

‍Ria Robertson

(Police, District Engagement Officer, Neighbourhood Policing Team)

Arrests

Another busy week for our officers, making a total of 19 arrests across the district last week.

We arrested 8 individuals for assault across Hailsham, Uckfield, Hartfield, Polegate and Wadhurst. One of which was assault of an emergency worker.

3 drivers were arrested in Uckfield and Jarvis Brook - 2 for drink driving and 1 for drug driving.

Other offences included theft, criminal damage and recall to prison.

Officers were called to a report of suspicious activity.

A male had been seen around Regency Close, Uckfield, behaving suspiciously and taking items from a skip.

Upon arrival, officers detained and searched the male, who was subsequently arrested on suspicion of theft and possession of an offensive weapon.

The stolen items were recovered, and a community resolution was completed.

Also - one of our officers had noticed a distinctive smell, and decided to check it out...

On Sunday the 9th March, two officers decided to investigate the smell whilst on foot patrol - leading them to the discovery of a cannabis farm in Hailsham.

We arrested 3 individuals at the scene, who have since been released on bail whilst investigations continue.

As always - we are urging anyone with information to call us on 101, or make a report online.

Fraud Prevention Talks!

We take fraud seriously here in Wealden.

Being educated is a great way to prevent falling victim to fraud, so we often share crime prevention advice through community talks and meetings.

PCSOs Tay, Park, Thompson and Wood joined over 40 members at Oasis in Crowborough to share information and discuss various ways to keep the community safe from scammers.

We encourage members of the public to continue to report incidents to Action Fraud or via 101 for police non-emergencies. Help us stop scammers in their tracks!

If you or someone you know would benefit from a talk similar, please get in contact.

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Officers of the future!

On Wednesday 12th March, we attended the Uckfield College Careers Fair, and spent the day meeting and speaking to many future Police Officers!

We find it so rewarding being able to share with students our first hand knowledge of working for Sussex Police, and love hearing how dedicated some students are to join the force one day.

Of course the handcuffs came out - something highly requested at these events!

Thanks for having us, and thanks to Knockhatch Adventure Park for trusting PC Dudley with the dinosaur!

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Dog theft awareness day

Today (14th) is Dog Theft Awareness Day

Instances of reported dog theft in Sussex are thankfully rare and with sensible precautions, the chances of your dog being stolen are extremely low.

However, we do advise the public to take preventative measures to ensure your dogs safety, which can be found here. Preventing dog theft | Sussex Police

If you believe your dog has been stolen or you have concerns about suspicious behaviour, report it to us online or by calling 101.

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Contact us

For non-emergency incidents or crime prevention advice, click  www.sussex.police.uk,  (If you report a crime online, we will assess it in the same way as a 101 call). 

Call 101 when you do not require an urgent response. In an emergency when life is threatened or there is immediate danger always call 999.

Speak to us face-to-face at a police station or contact the local policing team at www.sussex.police.uk/area/your-area. 

If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired, you can contact us using TypeTalk on 18000 or by sending a text to 65999.

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Arrests

There were 22 arrests made across the Wealden district last week for various offences.

There were 6 individuals arrested for assault in Crowborough, Uckfield, Polegate and Forest Row.

1 driver was arrested for being behind the wheel whilst disqualified, another for drink driving, and 3 for drug driving.

Other offences included theft of a motor vehicle and GBH.

Officers will continue their patrols this week, and keep the safety of our communities at top priority.

Appeal

Police are appealing for witnesses and information after a serious collision near Uckfield.

Emergency services attended the scene of a head-on collision involving two vehicles on the A26 at Herons Ghyll at about 2.45pm on February 5.

The collision involved the driver of a white Hyundai I10, and the driver of a blue Hyundai Ioniq.

The driver of the I10, a 25-year-old local woman, was taken to hospital with serious injuries, where she remains.

The driver of the Ioniq, a 64-year-old local man, sustained minor injuries.

Officers are investigating the circumstances of the collision, and want anyone with information to come forward.

In particular, witnesses, or anyone with relevant CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage of the collision or the vehicles in the area at the time are asked to report it to us.

Information can be reported on the Sussex Police website or by emailing: collision.appeal@sussex.police.uk and quote Operation Clearwater.

Vehicle Theft

Police are aware of a small number of criminal incidents around the Withyham and Hartfield area in the last few days potentially involving unknown males on a quad bike.

Reports have been received of both vehicle theft and damage.

As such Wealden Police will be conducting a number of additional patrols in the area to offer reassurance and conduct enquiries in the area, we encourage and ask anyone with either information or if you too have been a victim of damage or theft to report to police online or by calling 101.

Hailsham Youth Centre

PCSO Whitaker spent some time at the Hailsham Youth Club last week to see how the club was getting on.

It was a great chance to catch up with some of the youngsters, strengthening the bond between the younger community and the police (and not to mention, losing at air-hockey!)

The Youth Club is open to ages 11-17, regardless of background, gender or culture. The club is a safe, supportive and non-judgemental environment and there's always lots going on!

You can find regular updates for the club, including opening times and activities, via their Facebook page linked here >  (10) Facebook

Protecting your property

CCTV can be a very valuable tool when it comes to keeping your property safe.

Whilst it doesn't prevent a crime being committed, there are still many benefits to using CCTV to protect your home and valuables.

• CCTV linked to a smartphone will alert you to someone crossing your boundary.

• Some cameras work by day and by night, and record when they detect movement.

• Some can be remotely viewed from a smartphone, and allow you to easily download the footage. This is particularly handy in assisting an investigation!

There is legislation for home CCTV use, so always seek advice from an accredited installer first to ensure your system complies with the law.

Contact us

For non-emergency incidents or crime prevention advice, click  www.sussex.police.uk,  (If you report a crime online, we will assess it in the same way as a 101 call). 

Call 101 when you do not require an urgent response. In an emergency when life is threatened or there is immediate danger always call 999.

Speak to us face-to-face at a police station or contact the local policing team at www.sussex.police.uk/area/your-area. 

If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired, you can contact us using TypeTalk on 18000 or by sending a text to 65999.

Message Sent By

‍Ria Robertson
(Police, District Engagement Officer, Neighbourhood Policing Team)