Local News

Summer crackdown on drink and drug-drivers is underway

Sussex Police has launched the force’s annual summer crackdown on drink and drug-drivers who put people at risk of harm on our roads.

Officers have already been conducting roadside checks on drivers and in the first week made 50 arrests; where arrests 28 were for offences relating to drug-driving and 22 were for offences relating to drink-driving.

Consuming alcohol or taking drugs is one of the most common causes of collisions which result in someone being killed or seriously injured (KSI collisions) on our roads.

The “fatal five” factors are; drink and drug-driving, driving at excess speed, not wearing a seatbelt, using a mobile phone or being distracted while driving, and driving in a careless, inconsiderate or dangerous manner.

But drivers continue to ignore the dangers, putting their own lives and the lives of other road users at risk.

Last year, Sussex Police made 257 arrests as part of its winter crackdown. Of these, 137 arrests were for drug-driving, 111 were for drink-driving, and nine were for both drink and drug-driving.

So from August 1 to September 1, Sussex and Surrey Police are carrying out extra checks and enforcement on motorists in order to prevent and detect criminals, and to warn drivers not to take the risk in the first place.

The extra checks are in addition to the routine roads policing work undertaken by officers from the Roads Policing Unit (RPU), Specialist Enforcement Unit (SEU), and divisional officers that are carried out 24 hours a day and 365 days per year.

Chief Constable Jo Shiner said: “There is no excuse for being behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming drugs or alcohol.

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“It is the responsibility of every road user to make sure they abide by the law and that they are not putting themselves or other road users at risk.

“The fact we made 257 arrests and stopped more than 6,000 motorists in our last campaign, demonstrates our officers’ determination to catch offenders and keep our roads safe.”

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “I fully support Sussex Police in their ongoing campaigns to crack down on collisions caused by the ‘fatal five’.

“By driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs you are committing an unforgiveable act and gambling with your own and other people’s lives.

“It is vital that we all understand the risks, including that someone can still be over the limit the next morning and that drugs can remain in a person’s system for a long time.

“It truly isn’t worth the gamble - your friends and family don’t deserve a knock at the door telling them their loved one has been seriously injured or killed on the road.”

Chief Inspector Michael Hodder, of the Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “It cannot be said enough how much drink and drug-driving can ruin lives.

“Drink-driving is something that is becoming more socially unacceptable but unfortunately, we are seeing more and more drug-driving on our roads.

“This is something we are working hard to tackle, and these dedicated campaigns are crucial in raising awareness, deterring would-be offenders, and keeping as many people as possible safe on the roads.

“As always, we will deal extremely robustly with these offenders through a combination of measures including education and enforcement, with a special emphasis on reducing casualty rates of vulnerable users like motorcyclists and young drivers.

“Technology now allows us to test drivers at the roadside there and then for drugs, which allows us to be more effective in how we tackle drug driving and means that drivers who are breaking the law, will be caught.

“Alcohol and drugs affect everyone differently, so do the right thing, don’t risk it and arrange alternative ways home if you are planning on going out.”

In line with our previous campaigns, anyone arrested during this period and then convicted may be identified on our website and social media channels as a deterrent.

The consequences of drink or drug-driving could include:

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•             Killing or seriously injuring yourself or someone else;

•             A minimum 12-month ban;

•             An unlimited fine;

•             A possible prison sentence;

•             A criminal record, which could affect your current and future employment;

•             An increase in your car insurance costs;

•             Trouble travelling to countries such as the USA.

•             If you know someone is driving while over the limit or after taking drugs, call 999.

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You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online. www.crimestoppers-uk.org

The campaign is being run in conjunction with the DriveSmart in Surrey and Sussex Safer Roads Partnership.

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Uckfield man sentenced for historic child sex offences

A man who subjected a girl then aged between 10 and 11 to a series of sexual assaults for more than a year in West Sussex sixteen years ago, has now faced justice with a seven year prison sentence.
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Gavin Wright, 50, now of Norfolk Way, Uckfield, was sentenced at Chichester Crown Court on 2 August having been convicted of six sexual assaults and for possessing and distributing indecent images of children.​

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Detective Constable Ellen Jones of the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit said: "Wright came to know the young and vulnerable girl whilst living in East Grinstead, gradually gained her confidence and then systematically abused her for his own sexual gratification.

"When we arrested Wright we found in his possession vile indecent images of children being abused.

"While we were investigating his sexual assaults, our colleagues in the force's Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT) were investigating his more recent though completely unrelated online activities. They had found that another sex offender was messaging him and sending these images who he then sent on to others.

"So he received four-and-a-half years for the sexual assaults and an additional two-and-a-half years for the online offending.

"He will also be a registered sex offender for life, and was given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) to last until further notice, severely restricting his access to children and digital devices.

"In addition he was given a court Restraining Order prohibiting him from any contact with his victim."

The victim who finally found the resolution and courage to tell the police, told the court: "My reason for reporting the incident was to expose him for what he is to the world – manipulative and dangerous - and ensure that what I went through is never allowed to be repeated and affect the life of any other young person. No person deserves to have any of this happen to them. He deserves to face the consequences of his actions now and in the future."
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If you or anyone you know has been victim of such offending, you can always report it to the police at any time, no matter how long after the events. Contact Sussex Police on 101 and arrange to speak in confidence to experienced investigators.

Your report will be taken seriously and followed up to try to seek justice, and you will also be given access to independent sources of advice.
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For further information and support please visit our support pages online here.

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Crowborough RTC appeal

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Police are appealing for information following a collision involving a car and a pedestrian near Crowborough on Wednesday (August 10).

Officers were called to the eastbound carriageway of Sheep Plain at about 5.50pm.

It involved a blue Jaguar X-Type vehicle and a woman who suffered life-threatening injuries.

She was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, where she remains.

Roads Policing Unit officers are investigating and are keen to speak with anyone who witnessed the collision.

Anyone with relevant dashcam footage of the vehicle and the woman at the time of the collision of immediately beforehand is also asked to contact the police.

Information can be reported to Sussex Police online, via 101, or email: collision.appeal@sussex.police.uk and quote serial 1250 of 10/08.

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ASB patrols continue over the Summer holidays

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Left un-tackled; we know that anti-social behaviour (ASB) can have a devastating impact on local communities, businesses and individuals.

A number of anti-social behaviour (ASB) targeting patrols took place over the weekend, with both vehicle and foot patrols across the district, including in areas of Heathfield and Polegate.

As well as regular patrols during the week; each Friday and Saturday additional ASB targeting patrols take place across the district, with officers taking to areas that have seen an increase in reports of, and of calls to ASB during the week.

Residents can call the teams between the hours of 1530-2230 on 07770 700642 to report ASB at the time directly to the teams out and about across the district.

Outside of these times, please continue to report online/101 (non-emergencies), and always call 999 in an emergency/crime in action.

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Operation Downsay patrols this week

As part of our work around Operation Downsway officers have been out across the district this week conducting various vehicle safety checks, including here in Boreham Street, Hailsham where officers conducted speed checks earlier this week.

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A number of drivers were recorded by officers exceeding the limits in the area, as a result CSW referrals will be issued to registered keepers of those recorded in the first instance.

Any drivers recorded exceeding the speed tolerance levels during our regular checks (speeds above the tolerance for both speed awareness course and fine/points) will be summonsed to court in the first instance (no course or fines) and will face potential driving bans.

Operation Downway is our focus on enforcing and educating driving around the fatal5 driving offence; so named as they are the top 5 contributors to fatal road collisions on the roads of Sussex each year.

These include: -careless driving, -drink and drug driving, -not wearing a seatbelt, -excessive speed, -distracted driving, including mobile phone use.

Please continue to report driving and road related offences to us at the time online or to 101, you can also report with details of offending vehicles to our Operation Crackdown Team online here.

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Uckfield ASB patrols

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Following recent reports regarding antisocial driving and behaviour at the Bellbrook Industrial Estate in Uckfield late at night, we have committed a couple of hours during the peak times reported this week to patrolling and providing a Police presence in the area.

We thank residents for raising these issues, and continue to encourage locals to report any ASB driving in the area to us online, or to Operation Crackdown - whilst we appreciate it can be difficult to obtain the registration number of some of the vehicles reported, if you are able to provide when reporting appropriate action can be taken.

Whilst on our patrols in the area, any vehicles committing driving offences deemed to be anti-social (including excess speed, excess revving or driving in a dangerous/alarming manner) and where safe to do so, drivers will be stopped, and registered keepers either informed, or issued TORs (traffic offence reports) for such offences.

Again we thank local residents for their reports and raising concerns, please continue to contact us at the time, either online or to 101 (non-emergency), or by calling 999 at the time in an emergency/crime in action.

Community Concerns

As we head into the weekend the safety and welfare of our local community remains our top priority. Already this week a number of patrols have taken place across the district addressing concerns raised within the community (including here in Hailsham and Polegate).

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Many communities continue to raise concerns around road related and driving offences; in particular excess speeding. This week many checks have been conducted with varying results across the district, with a number of offences detected and dealt with at the time - please check out our recent social media posts for details of locations we have already been to this week.

Whilst we can not be everywhere, we could be anywhere, and would continue to encourage residents to report issues in their area, all reports help us to direct patrols and checks in areas that have seen an increase in, and an increase in reporting of road and driving related offences.

If you are out and about this weekend, and see of hear anything we need to know about, stop and let us know, or contact us online/101 (non-emergency).

Remember always call 999 in an emergency/crime in action.

Our phone lines can get extremely busy over the weekend, especially with the weather planned over the coming days, particularly 101.

If you don’t require an urgent response, please consider reporting your crime online. It is quicker for our contact officers to deal with online reports and phone lines are not tied up taking basic details like names and addresses, which are easily completed online.

It is these valuable seconds that can make a difference and even save lives when it comes to us being able to answer a 999 call.

Thank you.

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Burglary Summary

In the small hours of the 15th a property off Southview Road, Crowborough reported an attempted burglary whereby unknown individual/s have attempted to 'fish' car keys through the letter box of the address. Homeowners awoke to the sound of their letterbox being opened, and later discovered damage to their vehicle were it appears an attempt has been made to steal car keys and the vehicle. (619 of 15/08)

Burglary Advice

Members of the public and business owners are asked to remain alert to any suspicious activity in their area, and to report any concerns to police online or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

There are a number of steps residents can take to property their property, including alarm systems and CCTV cameras, for a range of crime prevention advice, support and tips to keep you and your property safe click here.

If you have been the victim of a burglary, please report online, or by calling 101 – always dial 999 in an emergency/burglary in action.

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Help us keep Sussex safe

If you saw or heard anything, or have any information about any incident in this message please contact us online, or call 101, quoting the reference number provided.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

You can also visit our website at www.sussex.police.uk where you can find our easy to use online forms to report all non-emergencies to us.

On our website you can also find police advice to keep you safe and help you understand the law, and also browse our crime prevention pages for first-hand knowledge, industry best practices and practical crime prevention advice from officers and specialist teams all across the police.

Have you ever had a policing question that doesn't actually require direct police involvement to answer?

Ask the Police is a great online source of information for the most frequently asked policing questions, visit www.askthe.police.uk/ for more information.

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Your local teams

What's happening in your area?

Get the latest crime statistics and advice, help us with appeals for information and find out what we’re doing to tackle crime in your area online here.

Follow your local Police team on social media, click below:

Facebook

Twitter

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Hartfield meet and greet this week

Hartfield residents, please pop along and meet your PCSOs this Friday 12th August 10-11am in The Anchor pub car park for a meet and greet, and questions and answer session.

This is an opportunity to speak to, and hear directly from officers for your area about any concerns you have, as well as hear about updates on recent patrols and crime in the area.

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Operation Dragonfly - Summer drink/drive checks

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Your Roads Policing Unit (RPU) spent a number of hours this weekend carrying out both speed and drink & drug driving checks along the A271 at Amberstone, Hailsham, as part of our Summer 'Operation Dragonfly' campaign.

Officers are pleased to report that no offences were observed during the checks completed over the weekend.

Similar to the Christmas campaign, these checks will continue in the coming weeks as part of Operation Dragonfly; Surrey & Sussex Police’s Summer drink & drug drive operation, incorporating the NPCC Drug Drive campaign.

If you suspect someone, or know of someone regularly driving whilst under the influence of either drugs or alcohol report it to us online.

If you know someone is about to drive whilst under the influence of either the above, always call 999.

Communities in Sussex can also text the details of the vehicle, driver, and location to 65999.

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Anti-social behaviour in Crowborough

Left un-tackled; we know that anti-social behaviour (ASB) can have a devastating impact on local communities, businesses and individuals.

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Following recent reports of ASB in your communities officers have spent a number of hours on late night patrols already this week in the town, patrolling hot spot areas, speaking to groups they came across, and challenging any ASB behaviour to help address your concerns.

Many ASB offences can become serious issues for local residents and businesses; whilst our patrols continue, we would also like to take the time to thank residents for reporting issues in their communities, and encourage residents to continue reporting incidents of ASB, drug use, crime and disorder to us at the time.

• Click: Report crimes online and access a library of crime prevention advice and support.

• Call: 101 when you don’t require an urgent response, or cannot report online - In an emergency always call 999.

• Connect: Visit us face-to-face at your nearest police station or contact point.

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Appeal following serious collision on A26

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Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious collision on the A26 between Rose Hill and Little Horsted near Uckfield.

Officers were called to the junction with Bradfords Lane at about 4.15pm on Sunday, August 7, to a collision involving a car and a motorcycle.

The rider, a 22-year-old man, was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital with serious injuries and remains in a life-threatening condition.

Officers are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant footage to come forward.

The collision involved a black Audi Q2, and an orange KTM 125 motorcycle.

Anyone who saw or has footage of the vehicles in the area before the incident is also asked to contact us.

Information can be reported online, on 101, or email: collision.appeal@sussex.police.uk and quote Operation Rowhill.

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ASB driving in Uckfield

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Following recent reports regarding antisocial driving and behaviour at the Bellbrook Industrial Estate in Uckfield, late at night, we have committed a couple of hours during the peak times reported to patrolling and providing a Police presence in the area.

We thank residents for raising these issues, and continue to encourage locals to report any ASB driving in the area to us online, or to Operation Crackdown - whilst we appreciate it can be difficult to obtain the registration number of some of the vehicles reported, if you are able to provide when reporting appropriate action can be taken.

Whilst on our patrols in the area, any vehicles committing driving offences deemed to be anti-social (including excess speed, excess revving or driving in a dangerous/alarming manner) and where safe to do so, drivers will be stopped, and registered keepers either informed, or issued TORs (traffic offence reports) for such offences.

Again we thank local residents for their reports and raising concerns, please continue to contact us at the time, either online or to 101 (non-emergency), or by calling 999 at the time in an emergency/crime in action.

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Heathfield ASB and drug patrols

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Following reports of drug dealing and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Heathfield around the park near Leeves Common, PCSO Reed took to patrolling the area to keep an eye out for any drug use or ASB this week.

Drug use and drug offences can have a number of damaging effects on local communities, including leading to an increase in ASB, or drugs paraphernalia being left in public places, which can be dangerous to both local residents and visitors to the area.

Officers will continue to these areas, and challenge any drugs use or ASB they come across, should you too be out and about in the area and see or hear of anything we need to know about, please continue to report it at the time.

Contact us 24/7, 365:

Online/101 to report non-urgent matters, or seek advice and support on a number of crimes 999 in an emergency/crime in action/where there is threat to life and/or property.

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Local patrols and operations across Wealden

As part of our regular patrols across the district, this week officers have been out and about in a number of areas, including in Pevensey Bay and Stone Cross, providing a Police presence, speaking to residents about localised crime, and discussing what local teams have been doing to tackle issues raised; ranging from anti-social behaviour (ASB), road related offences and burglary.

Did you know, we have a number of dedicated Operations currently running to address issues raised by communities including:

-Operation Dowsnway - our enforcement and educational patrols/stop checks around raising awareness of the fatal5 driving offences, including regular speed checks, and driver distraction offences (EG mobile phone use) to address road safety concerns and keep the roads of Sussex safe for users.

-Operation Blitz - our weekly ASB targeting patrols, which sees dedicated officers take to the streets in areas that have seen an increase in, and an increase in reporting of ASB, as well as ASB driving - residents for Wealden can call 07770700642 between 1500-2300 each Friday and Saturday night to report ASB directly to teams out on the ground.

To report road and driving related offences, you can report directly to our Operation Crackdown team with details of any vehicles committing driving related offences, or report online.

Please continue to report incidents of anti-social behaviour and driving to us at the time online or to 101 (always call 999 in an emergency) - all reports help direct our ASB targeting patrols to areas that have seen and increase in ASB and ASB reporting.

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Burglary Summary

Around 0130 on the 11th August, a property off Michelham Road, Uckfield reported an attempted burglary whereby an unknown male entered their garden as a trespasser. From CCTV the male has moved the CCTV camera and wandered around the garden with a torch before being disturbed and making his way off over neighbouring fences. The male was described as wearing a hoodie and dark trousers, he also had gloves on wearing a bum bag. (108 11/08)

Overnight on the 7th-8th August, a quad bike was stolen from a property off Withyham Road, Withyham whereby unknown individual/s have forced entry to an outbuilding, and cut secure locks and chains to gain access to commit offences. Details of the quad bike have been passed to the Police and our Rural Crime Team. (0005 /09/08)

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Burglary Advice

Members of the public and business owners are asked to remain alert to any suspicious activity in their area, and to report any concerns to police online or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

There are a number of steps residents can take to property their property, including alarm systems and CCTV cameras, for a range of crime prevention advice, support and tips to keep you and your property safe click here.

If you have been the victim of a burglary, please report online, or by calling 101 – always dial 999 in an emergency/burglary in action.

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Help us keep Sussex safe

If you saw or heard anything, or have any information about any incident in this message please contact us online, or call 101, quoting the reference number provided.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

You can also visit our website at www.sussex.police.uk where you can find our easy to use online forms to report all non-emergencies to us.

On our website you can also find police advice to keep you safe and help you understand the law, and also browse our crime prevention pages for first-hand knowledge, industry best practices and practical crime prevention advice from officers and specialist teams all across the police.

Have you ever had a policing question that doesn't actually require direct police involvement to answer?

Ask the Police is a great online source of information for the most frequently asked policing questions, visit www.askthe.police.uk/ for more information.

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Your local teams

What's happening in your area?

Get the latest crime statistics and advice, help us with appeals for information and find out what we’re doing to tackle crime in your area online here.

Follow your local Police team on social media, click below:

Facebook

Twitter

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‍Police are renewing an appeal to trace Jonathan King, who is wanted on recall to prison from Heathfield

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Sussex Police offered a £500 reward for information that leads to his arrest.

King, 51, was released part-way through a nine-year sentence for burglary imposed in 2014, but is being recalled owing to reported breaches of his release on licence.

He is believed to have links to the Wealden district, specifically Heathfield and Polegate, as well as links to Bexhill.

King is described as having a stocky build with dark short hair greying at the sides, and a goatee beard. He also has several tattoos on his neck, chest and arms.

Anyone who sees him, or has any information as to his whereabouts, is asked to contact Sussex Police online or by calling 101, quoting serial 949 of 21/09/2021.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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ASB awareness week results

As well as raising awareness of the effects ASB can have on communities, and sharing ASB support and contact channels; a number of proactive patrols across the district also took place to look at the root causes of ASB during our week of ASB awareness last week.

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One of those patrols saw our Sussex Police Cadets head out across areas of Hailsham, Heathfield and Uckfield to speak to youngsters their age about the dangers and consequences of knife crime, as well offer advice on who they can turn to should they feel pressured into carrying a knife/weapon; Cadets and their leaders also conducted a number of knife/weapon sweeps in your local parks and open public spaces to look for, and remove any discarded or hidden potential weapons.

We are pleased to report that no knives or weapons were found during the sweeps, and that a large number of individuals were spoken to and engaged in conversation with around the topics of ASB and knife crime.

If you have any concerns that a child in your care may be involved in knife crime, you can find a library of support and contact details from not only the Police but from local charities and organisations with advice and guidance on what to do; and who you can turn to online here.

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Business crime prevention patrols and advice

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As part of their role, your Neighbourhood PCSOs get to go out across your towns and villages, to meet people, as well as to build vital links with local communities, and to offer advice and support - this morning (29th July) PCSO Gilling is making her way around local businesses in Horam, speaking to owners about recent incidents of ASB, and offering business crime prevention advice as we head into the Summer holidays.

Businesses in Horam, Heathfield and Hailsham have recently joined our newly launched DISC app, offering users a secure and effective way to flag suspicious activity and share intelligence with other local businesses and the Police, as well as providing businesses closer engagement with local policing and local communities.

To be involved and for more information, please speak to your local PCSO, or visit your nearest Police Station to enquire about being enrolled in the DISC scheme.

Crime against a business can take many forms: from shoplifting or non-paying diners to staff theft and burglary from premises.

During the Summer months, we are advising business owners to help safeguard their business with our latest advice, which can be found online here.

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'Memory Lane' visit at Uckfield Police Station

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Uckfield Police Station had the pleasure of welcoming John Osbourne who is the son of PC 56 John Osbourne who served between 1921 and 1955 late last week.

Joined by local PCSOs and front office staff, The Lady Mayor and The Deputy Mayor for Uckfield also attended, when John came to visit.

During the day, he got to visit the old police house at the rear of the yard where he lived and his sister was born.

John had many stories of his Father’s service with East Sussex Police, and showed us the cell where during WW2 a German prisoner of war was held following his capture by a 12 year old farmer’s son.

He has told us of, and left a written account and photos he had of his Father’s service, we’d like to thank John and his family for coming along, we really enjoyed being able to share your wonderful memories with you.

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Scam advice and support

Every year, the British public loses billions of pounds to fraudsters. With scams ranging from the simplest confidence trick to the most sophisticated high-tech online fraud, it pays to keep up to date with the latest news and advice.

Read and share the latest Fraud Newsletter which has already been issued as an alert earlier this week, to find out more about fraud, its many types and how you can report it online here.

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CT and ACT advice this Summer

With a number of festival, music and community events planned over the Summer, we will be sharing the advice of Counter Terrorism Policing (ACT) over the coming weeks to help raise awareness of what you can do if you see or hear something that doesn't seem quite right.

Summer events will see an increased number of crowds with many events taking place across the county, if you're attending any events this weekend, it’s important to be alert, but not alarmed. With a little bit of knowledge you can increase your safety and know what to do if you see something that doesn’t seem quite right. We're encouraging communities to Be Safe Be Sound and follow the advice online here.

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Safe Space Sussex App

Heading out over the weekend, have you heard about the new Safe Space Sussex app?

A new app called ‘Safe Space Sussex’ aimed at helping people if they find themselves feeling unsafe, feeling vulnerable, whilst out and about during the day, evening or night time is now available to download free from the Apple App and Google Play stores.

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Once downloaded and logged in, users will see a map showing their location and a number of red pins indicating all Safe Spaces near them, such as local shops, pharmacies, supermarkets, pubs and clubs.

Tapping on a red pin will show opening times and directions from their current location to all venues who are signed up to the app, a list of all venues already signed up can be found online here.

On arrival at the Safe Space users can identify themselves to staff who will be able to offer them somewhere safe to wait until the Police or a trusted contact can reach them.

Download by searching 'Safe Space Sussex' on your mobile or tablet's app store, or scan the QR code in the image above to download and share with your friends and family today.

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Additional ASB patrols this weekend

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Call us between 15:00pm and 22:30pm on 07770 700642 to report anti-social behaviour (ASB) and youth disorder on a Friday and Saturday night.

Each weekend, additional officers head out on patrol in areas which have seen an increase in or reporting of anti-social behaviour (ASB) and youth related crime and disorder - these areas are directed by your reports, please continue to use the contact number provided at weekends, and report ASB at the time it is happening.

Outside of these times, please continue to report ASB online/101 for non-emergencies, and to 999 at the time in an emergency/crime in action.

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Burglary Summary

An attempted burglary was reported in the small hours of the 21st July 2022 at a property off New Road, Herstmonceux, Hailsham. Unknown individuals were seen attempting to gain entry to a shed at the property, and ran off when disturbed.

A cycle was stolen from an insecure shed at a property off Houghton Way, Hellingly, Hailsham, around 2300 hours on the 24th July 2022. Homeowner CCTV has been passed to the Police which shows a potential suspect looking over walls of the address.

Overnight on the 24th to 25th July 2022, a number of power tools, including chainsaws, and angle grinders were stolen from a secure outbuilding at a property off Beech Green Lane, Withyham, Hartfield. It is believed the unknown suspect/s have used force to damage door of the building to gain entry. A motorcycle was also stolen from inside. Suspect vehicle details have been passed to the Police.

An attempted vehicle theft was reported around 2200 hours on the 26th July 2022 from a property off West Street Lane, Horam, Heathfield. Homeowners have been alerted to a smashed window at the property, and an unknown male in a black balaclava style hat attempting to drive off in their vehicle after the male had stolen keys to the vehicle via the smashed window. The male made off when confronted by the victim, details of the incident and any potential lines of enquiry have been passed to the local Neighbourhood Policing Team for investigation.

A burglary was reported overnight on the 26th to 27th July 2022 from a property off Streele Lane, Framfield, Uckfield. Owners of the address have noticed wooden slats and padlocks to secure outbuildings damaged and removed, although entry was gained by unknown individual/s, fortunately nothing was reported as stolen.

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Burglary Advice

Members of the public and business owners are asked to remain alert to any suspicious activity in their area, and to report any concerns to police online or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

There are a number of steps residents can take to property their property, including alarm systems and CCTV cameras, for a range of crime prevention advice, support and tips to keep you and your property safe click here.

If you have been the victim of a burglary, please report online, or by calling 101 – always dial 999 in an emergency/burglary in action.

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Help us keep Sussex safe

If you saw or heard anything, or have any information about any incident in this message please contact us online, or call 101, quoting the reference number provided.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

You can also visit our website at www.sussex.police.uk where you can find our easy to use online forms to report all non-emergencies to us.

On our website you can also find police advice to keep you safe and help you understand the law, and also browse our crime prevention pages for first-hand knowledge, industry best practices and practical crime prevention advice from officers and specialist teams all across the police.

Have you ever had a policing question that doesn't actually require direct police involvement to answer?

Ask the Police is a great online source of information for the most frequently asked policing questions, visit www.askthe.police.uk/ for more information.

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Your local teams

What's happening in your area?

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Crowborough PCSO meet and greet

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Crowborough residents, please join your local PCSOs tomorrow the 16th July, from 1000-1200 in the Town Centre (outside the old Johnsons dry cleaners) for a meet and greet session.

Officers will be around to answer any questions that you may have, as well as offer advice, support, and updates around recent patrols to help tackle local issues, such as anti-social behaviour.

This is an opportunity to meet your local PCSOs for your town, and hear directly from them about the work being conducted in your town to help keep you and your communities safe.

Can't make it to see us?

Contact us 24/7, 365 online (for crime prevention advice, support and reporting non-emergencies) 999 in an emergency.

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PCSO recruitment closes on Wednesday 20th July

From dealing with anti-social behaviour and taking statements from victims of crime, to providing reassurance and helping resolve community challenges; our Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) play a critical and visible role in helping keep our communities safe, identifying and protecting the most vulnerable, and preventing harm.

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If you’re looking for a new career, providing new challenges and a day like no other, find out if this is the role for you - applications are now open and close on the 20/07/22.

For more information on the role and to apply today click here.

As the first point of contact for the community, you’ll need to be a great communicator; calm, confident and compassionate. You’ll need to be able to listen carefully, think through challenges and find solutions. Our PCSOs are good at problem solving, team players and can easily build relationships with people. Above all, you’ll simply care about the community and want to do what you can to keep it safe.

In return, we promise you a good starting salary, great training experiences, opportunities for progression, the chance to achieve a professional qualification - Level 4 Diploma in Community Policing Practice - and the pride that comes from helping others.

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PCSO community engagements this week

As well as supporting Police Officer colleagues in protecting your communities, your PCSOs also get to go out across your towns and villages, to meet people, build links with local communities and offer advice and support - Last weekend some of your Wealden PCSOs joined local residents at the Horam Fun Day 2022.

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What a fun packed and busy day it was for local community groups, charities and stall holders; it was so nice to see everyone coming together to support local events - we had a great time meeting and catching up with new and old faces, and it was a great opportunity to update residents on our recent patrols in the area.

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This Saturday 16th July meet PCSOs at Polegate Primary School Summer Fair tomorrow afternoon from 3-6pm.

Officers will be attending the event to offer advice and support to parents/carers as well as being around to update residents on recent patrols, and the work being conducted in your community to keep you safe - we will also have our patrol car and Police equipment for youngsters attending to have a fun with!

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Operation Downsway Educational Days

As part of our ongoing commitment to road safety, officers have not only been conducting enforcement patrols under our Operation Downsway, but also holding educational events across the district.

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On Sunday of last week, officers from your Wealden Neighbourhood Policing Team spent a number of hours in Birling Gap; speaking to drivers and visitors in the area, discussing their road safety concerns, as well as raising awareness of the potential consequences that the fatal5 driving offences can have on not only them, but their families/friends, and the wider community.

Operation Downsway encompasses the fatal5 driving offences, so called as they are the main contributors to fatal roads collisions on the roads of Sussex each year:

Inappropriate or excessive speed.

Not wearing a seat belt.

Driver distractions including using mobile devices such as mobile phones.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Careless and inconsiderate driving.

Our enforcement patrols, and education days will continue over the Summer, and we encourage communities to continue reporting fatal5 driving offences to us at the time online, or by calling 101.

Remember in an emergency, or if you know someone is driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, always call 999.

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Community Speed Watch Groups this week

Officers from your Wealden Neighbourhood Policing Team joined a Community Speedwatch (CSW) session held by members of Heathfield CSW earlier this week, following reports from residents around excess speeding.

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During the course of their checks, CSW members recorded over 170 vehicles, which we are pleased to report all kept within the limit for the roads checked during the sessions.

CSW is a national initiative where, in partnership with the police, members of communities use detection devices to monitor local vehicle speeds.

The volunteers report drivers exceeding the speed limit to the police with the aim of educating drivers to slow down.

CSW Online works on behalf of the police and communities to organise and coordinate CSW activity, with volunteers receiving full training, and support from neighbourhood policing staff.

If the data proves a driver is ignoring repeated warnings police can prosecute them.

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The aim is to:

• reduce death and injury on the roads

• improve the quality of life for local communities

• reduce the speed of vehicles to the speed limit

• increase public awareness of inappropriate speed

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Community Speedwatch does not result in prosecution itself - however, if a persistent speeding driver is identified through the scheme, police can use this evidence to take action against them if required. If there is a persistent general speeding issue where highway improvements are required (eg speedbumps), the relevant agency will be contacted.

Join your local Community Speedwatch today: to become part of CSW, please click here to register for more information.

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ASB awareness week, and ASB contact numbers

Left un-tackled; we know that anti-social behaviour (ASB) can have a devastating impact on local communities and individuals. Many ASB offences become serious issues for local residents and businesses; together with partners from local agencies and councils, we are committed to addressing localised ASB and are supporting ASB awareness week all next week (18th-24th July) to help tackle ASB in your communities.

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One of the ways we do this is with our additional weekly ASB patrols, each Friday and Saturday evening between 1500-2230. Each weekend, additional Officers head out on patrol in areas which have seen an increase in, or reporting of anti-social behaviour (ASB) and youth related crime and disorder - many of these areas are visited as a direct result of local reports, and we would encourage residents to please continue to use the contact number provided below (during the hours given) to report ASB at the time it is happening directly to Officers out on the ground.

Wealden residents can report to our additional ASB patrols (Friday and Saturday 1500-2230) by calling 07770 700642 to report incidents of ASB at the time; outside of these times, please continue to report ASB online or to us on 101 - in an emergency/crime in action always call 999.

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Reporting online could help to save lives

Sussex Police are reminding residents that the decisions they make when choosing how to report a crime could be the difference between saving a life or not.

It is vital our phone lines are kept clear for people who need to contact us during a genuine emergency and need our assistance urgently.

But it is not just for emergencies where it is important that the phone lines are kept clear. Some of the most vulnerable members of our community, like the elderly who may have not have access to the internet, will call us to report non-emergencies.

Please be considerate when choosing how to report a non-emergency with Sussex Police so every resident can access the same levels of good service.

There are many other advantages to reporting online which could be more beneficial to you.

Rather than relaying an account of your report to a contact officer, you can submit a comprehensive account which can be done at your leisure where it may be more beneficial to reflect in a considered way on an incident’s details.

The force does experience a high volume of calls, particularly to our 101 number, so by reporting online you do not need to spend time waiting in a queue to contact us.

One of the most common misconceptions about reporting online is that reports aren’t seen or triaged by a contact officer. You can be reassured that all reports online or via email or indeed social media are assessed by one of our skilled contact officers – the very same people who you would normally speak to if you called 101.

Before you log an incident report with police, it’s imperative you ensure that it is in fact a police matter. Much valuable time is lost on reports which could be directed to other agencies, including councils and housing associations who will be in a better place to respond to you quickly and efficiently.

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Chief Superintendent Rosie Ross oversees our contact centre and explains why it is vital people choose the right method of communication when reporting a non-emergency to us.

She said: “We are asking the people of Sussex to self-prioritise how important their call is and whether the same report can be made online. It is imperative that the lines are kept clear for people who are calling in a genuine emergency and need our assistance urgently or for people who don’t have access to the internet.

“Our contact officers experience high-levels of calls throughout the summer so now is a good time for people to change their reporting method for non-emergencies. I want to reassure people that reports made online are also triaged by a human. All reports are triaged by the same staff in the contact centre irrespective of whether it has been made online or by calling 101, so the public can expect the same levels of good service.

“It is quicker for them to deal with online reports and phone lines are not tied up taking basic details like the name and address, which are easily completed on the online system. It is these valuable seconds that can make a difference and even save lives when it comes to us being able to answer a 999 call.”

Click report online at www.sussex.police.uk.

Call 101 if you can not use our online services, or when you don’t require an urgent response - In an emergency always call 999.

Connect with us face-to-face at your nearest police station or contact point, to contact your local policing team for community matters, or follow us on social media for updates in your area.

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Hot Weather Warning

The Met Office have issued the following video, click here to view.

Extremely hot weather is expected over the weekend and early next week.

Take extra care if you go out – avoid the hottest part of the day, check in on vulnerable and elderly neighbours/family and avoid travelling where you can, remember too to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat and stay in the shade if you can.

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Burglary Summary

We are please to report that there have been no reported residential or business burglaries for the period 10th July to 15th July 2022.

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‍Burglary Advice

Members of the public and business owners are asked to remain alert to any suspicious activity in their area, and to report any concerns to police online or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

There are a number of steps residents can take to property their property, including alarm systems and CCTV cameras, for a range of crime prevention advice, support and tips to keep you and your property safe click here.

If you have been the victim of a burglary, please report online, or by calling 101 – always dial 999 in an emergency/burglary in action.

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Help us keep Sussex safe

If you saw or heard anything, or have any information about any incident in this message please contact us online, or call 101, quoting the reference number provided.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

You can also visit our website at www.sussex.police.uk where you can find our easy to use online forms to report all non-emergencies to us.

On our website you can also find police advice to keep you safe and help you understand the law, and also browse our crime prevention pages for first-hand knowledge, industry best practices and practical crime prevention advice from officers and specialist teams all across the police.

Have you ever had a policing question that doesn't actually require direct police involvement to answer?

Ask the Police is a great online source of information for the most frequently asked policing questions, visit www.askthe.police.uk/ for more information.

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Your local teams

What's happening in your area?

Get the latest crime statistics and advice, help us with appeals for information and find out what we’re doing to tackle crime in your area online here.

Follow your local Police team on social media, click below:

Facebook

Twitter

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