Police warning - don't give your gold to strangers

Police are warning householders to be on their guard against door-to-door callers offering money for gold.

A number of people have answered their door to people claiming to be from a company who offer money for gold items.

The callers claim to offer 40% more cash than the owner would receive by sending their valuables by post. They offer to take the gold away and value it, then return with the money.

North Yorkshire Police have received calls from concerned residents in the York area over the past few days. Thankfully there are no reports of anyone having lost their valuables, however, if you believe you have been a victim, please contact police.

Sergeant Dave Edwards of North Yorkshire Police’s Financial Investigation unit warned people to be on their guard and not to part with any belongings unless they are confident they know who they are dealing with. He said: “Our advice is don’t hand over any valuables to anyone in any circumstances. We are not aware of any companies who operate on a cold calling basis and would strongly advise against handing over your valuables to strangers.”

Police warn of morning after risk as over 2,000 drivers breathalysed in two weeks

Police are warning motorists not to add to the total of 52 arrests this Christmas as this year’s drink and drug drive campaign gains momentum.

Since the festive campaign began on 1 December, more than 2,000 people have been breathalysed and 52 arrested.

Assistant Chief Constable Tim Madgwick said: “We are disappointed that 52 people have decided to risk their licence, not to mention their life and get behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs. As demonstrated by just two weeks of the campaign, our commitment to safer roads is unfailing and motorists should heed the warnings that we mean what we say - you will be caught, and could end up losing your licence, livelihood or worse.

“As the party season gets underway and more people attend Christmas parties and gatherings, please be mindful of the effects of the morning after - alcohol remains in your system for 24 hours since the last drink. Our officers are on the look-out for drink-drivers 24 hours a day, so don’t fool yourself into thinking we won’t be around.

“We want everyone to have a good time this festive season, but please remember to book a taxi or have a designated driver to get you home safely.

“For those who are currently facing court on drink or drug drive charges, our message is a sobering one - be thankful that we got to you first and not one of our colleagues from the ambulance or fire service.”

The campaign is supported by the “95 Alive” York and North Yorkshire Road Safety Partnership, who will be out and about with their drink and drug drive road-shows. These are a series of road safety events taking place each day in the run up to Christmas, aimed at education and awareness.

North Yorkshire County Council's Assistant Director of Highways David Bowe, Chair of 95 Alive said: "This is all about enforcement and education. People have to realise driving under the influence of drink or drugs is just not acceptable because it does wreck lives.

“North Yorkshire County Council Road Safety Officers are working in partnership with Fire and Rescue and the Police to stage 23 roadshows at Christmas events and markets around the County in the run up to Christmas to make sure the message gets across. And we have had a lot of support from members of the public.

" We want people to go out and enjoy themselves and make the most of the excellent restaurants and pubs in North Yorkshire, but have a designated driver, get a taxi or a bus and be aware that the effects can last a lot longer than many people think well into the morning after."

Breakdown of results

2,134 breath tests carried out

52 arrests:
39 Positive breath tests
4 failing to provide a roadside breath test
3 for being unfit through drink
5 for being unfit through drugs
1 for being drunk in charge of a vehicle

Impact of snowfall on driving conditions in North Yorkshire

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said:

“Heavy snowfall and sub-zero conditions have had a major impact on roads right across the force area. During Saturday alone there were more than 50 reports of highway disruption due to heavy snow, ice and vehicles that had become stuck, and over 50 damage-only collisions. There were also 20 collisions classed as minor or serious, although none are believed to have resulted in serious injury. To give a contrast, last Saturday (11 Dec) there were 11 damage-only collisions and 13 collisions classed as minor or serious.

So far today (Sunday 20 Dec) there have been only four minor collisions and 15 reports of highway disruption. The main routes are clear at this time and the volume of traffic is much lighter.

"However, with the current weather conditions set to continue into next week, we again advise people to be extra cautious and only make journeys if they are absolutely necessary.

"If you have to drive, make sure you leave plenty of time for your journey. Drive slowly and according to the road conditions, and leave a large distance between you and the vehicle in front.

"In the event of getting stuck in snow, we advise that you make the necessary preparations including carrying a fully charged and useable mobile phone so you can call for roadside assistance or help from the emergency services. Warm clothing, a blanket, extra footwear such as Wellington boots and a flask of hot drink and some food are also essential items. And if you can fit one into your car, it is also worth taking a shovel in case the snow is particularly deep."

For more advice on winter driving go to the following link on the North Yorkshire Police website: http://www.northyorkshire.police.uk/winterdriving

Claudia Lawrence Investigation

Christmas Appeal

Chief Constable Grahame Maxwell has today made a direct appeal to help solve the disappearance of 35-yr-old Claudia Lawrence.

Speaking in his Christmas message to the communities of North Yorkshire, he urges the person who knows what has happened to her, to do the right thing and contact police.

In his message he said: "Somebody out there knows what has happened to Claudia, somebody out there has information which could assist us in determining what has happened to her. As you enjoy your Christmas with your family, spare a thought for Claudia's family and what they must be going through.

"If you have any information at all, no matter how small, which could help us find out what has happened to her, then please, contact the police. Or, you can give information anonymously to Crimestoppers."

A letter from Mr Maxwell has also been sent to residents who live along Claudia's route to work. In the letter, he thanks the community for their continued support and assistance during the investigation.

Claudia went missing over nine months ago and police believe she has come to harm at the hands of a third party. The investigation is being treated as suspected murder and Crimestoppers are offering a £10,000 reward for information which leads to the arrest and charge of those responsible for her disappearance.

Detective Superintendent Ray Galloway who is leading the investigation, added: "The past nine months has seen a very determined and tenacious team of staff investigate and analyse an enormous amount of information as we seek to find out what has happened to Claudia.

"We hope that as Christmas approaches, the person who holds that crucial piece of information will come forward and put an and to the distress suffered by Claudia's family.

"As our enquiries develop, we know there are people out there who knew Claudia and for whatever reason, they have not yet come forward. We urge you now, to come forward and speak to us in confidence.

"I echo Mr Maxwell's message, someone somewhere knows what has happened, whether it's the person directly responsible, or their friend or family member who knows something, or has noticed a change in their behaviour. We appeal to you to do the right thing and come forward now.

"The investigation is a very complex one and every possible scenario must be explored. Many of our leads lie with information from friends, family and acquaintances and it is to them that we continue to appeal to enable us to complete the picture."

Anyone with any information, please contact police on 0845 60 60 247 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police seek public's help to find wanted York man

Detectives in York are appealing to the public for their assistance in locating 41-yr-old Michael Gary Robinson from York, who is wanted in connection with a number of house burglaries in the York area.

Officers believe that Robinson is currently residing in the York area and are asking anyone who knows where he is or has seen him in the past few weeks, to contact York CID.

He is distinctive in appearance due to tattoos on his neck in the shape of a spider's web and a scorpion on the right side of his neck. He is white, around 5ft 9in, with brown eyes and of medium build.

Anyone who knows of his whereabouts or has seen him in past few days, or can provide any other information, please call York CID on 0845 60 60 247, or you can give information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Reassuring police presence for vulnerable residents during extreme conditions

With heavy snow fall and sub-zero temperatures continuing to disrupt everyday life across the county, North Yorkshire Police is stepping up patrols to ensure our most vulnerable residents remain safe and secure.

Officers and PCSOs from the 17 Safer Neighbourhood Teams are providing a reassuring presence and direct contact for many elderly people and those who live in isolated locations.

And through close partnership work with North Yorkshire County Council, City of York Council, the various district councils and the local healthy authority, anyone who might be struggling to cope or are in danger are receiving the necessary assistance as a matter of priority.

Assistant Chief Constable Tim Madgwick said: “As a community, it is vital that we all pull together and look out for one another during this extreme weather which is causing considerable disruption.

“We are very conscious that some members of the community, elderly people in particular, are finding the conditions very difficult to cope with and have become virtually house bound.

“And due to the sheer scale and remoteness of certain parts of North Yorkshire, there are people who are more or less cut off from the outside world as a result of the heavy snow.

“Therefore to provide this important reassurance and ultimately to protect and preserve life, our Safer Neighbourhood Teams will be calling at the homes of people who they feel may require assistance.

“At the very least they will provide a friendly face and a kind word during what has and continues to be a very difficult and challenging period.”

ACC Madgwick praised the “real community spirit” which has been in evidence since the onset of the snow and icy conditions.

This has included countless incidents where members of the public have assisted the emergency services and councils to rescue people who have become stranded in cars on remote roads on the moors and dales.

ACC Madgwick said it is also vital for people to take it upon themselves to keep an eye out for elderly neighbours or relatives who could well be suffering in silence.

He said: “All it takes is a few minutes of your time to pop round to their home to ensure they are safe and well. Even if it is just a phone call to check on their wellbeing, it is better than nothing at all.”

Further help and assistance for vulnerable people is available from:

North Yorkshire Council - 0845 8 72 73 74 - www.northyorks.gov.uk

City of York Council - 01904 551550 - www.york.gov.uk

For non-emergency police assistance, please contact North Yorkshire Police on 0845 60 60 24 7.

Man charged with double robbery in York

A 28-year-old man is due to appear at York Magistrates' Court this morning (Monday 11 January 2010) charged with two robberies, assault with intent to commit robbery and possession of a taser-like weapon.

The first robbery occurred on Shipton Street, York, at about 2am on Sunday 10 January 2010. The 31-year-old male victim received bruises to his arm, wrist and face in the attack carried out by two men. He required treatment at York District Hospital.

At about 3.45am the same day, another robbery occurred on Burton Stone Lane. The 41-year-old male victim was attacked by two men but he managed to run away to safety. He too suffered arm and facial injuries.

Following police enquires, two suspects were arrested at 6.15am in connection with both incidents.

The 28-year-old man was charged on Sunday evening and a 32-year-old man remains in police custody for further questioning.

Christmas crime cracked down by 14%

Communities across the county enjoyed a low-crime Christmas thanks to the determined efforts of North Yorkshire Police and its partners.

High-visibility police patrols were stepped on the run up to and during the festive period to deter criminal activity and disorder. This was backed up by effective work alongside our local authority partners and the dedicated Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships.

This all-out effort resulted in a 14% drop in total crime for December 2009 compared to the same period in 2008.

In real terms this equates to 529 less victims of crime this Christmas, with 3,310 incidents recorded in December 2009 as opposed to 3,839 in December 2008.

The results included:

Auto crime reduced by 44% (from 466 to 261 crimes)

Domestic burglary reduced by 12% (from 210 to 185 crimes)

Non-domestic burglary down by 20% (from 332 to 267 crimes).

Criminal damage down by 26% (from 833 to 614 crimes)

Theft down by 3% (from 944 to 913 crimes)

Violent crime down by 1% (from 768 to 761 crimes)

Robbery down by 70% (from 10 to 3 crimes)

Personal robbery down by 20% (from 20 to 16 crimes)

Drug offences down by 19% (from 182 to 155 crimes)

Crime Down, Confidence Up!

Crime continues to fall across North Yorkshire with the county remaining one of the safest areas in the country according to the latest Home Office figures.

The force recorded the second lowest crime rate in the whole of England with 59 crimes per 1,000 population in the year to September 2009. Total crime reported was 46,496 which means there were over 2,400 fewer victims of crime than the previous year.

House Burglary has seen a significant reduction with 420 less victims compared to last year. This equates to 16.5% reduction, the second highest reduction in England.

Vehicle crime has also reduced significantly with 709 less offences reported.

The publication of the figures coincide with the latest findings of the British Crime Survey which reveals that public confidence in North Yorkshire Police continues to grow.

The survey revealed that 51.2% of people believe that the police and the local council are dealing with anti-social behaviour and crime, higher than the national average of 50.4%.

Chief Constable Grahame Maxwell, said: “These figures are very encouraging and reflect the hard work and commitment of both North Yorkshire Police and our local authority partners.

“We cannot, however be complacent and accept that to meet our confidence targets, despite being one of the safest areas of the UK, we still have lots of work to do to. We will meet this challenge head-on and work even harder to ensure we continue to be one of the safest areas in England and that we deliver the best possible policing service to our communities.”

The British Crime Survey also revealed that 58.9% percent of the population believed the police deal with local concerns, which is higher than the national average of 55%.

Perceived levels of anti-social behaviour have decreased and represent the lowest rate in England, with only 7.8% of respondents perceiving high levels of Anti-Social behaviour in their local area. Similarly rates for the perception of drunk and rowdy behaviour, and drug use have also decreased and are among the best rates nationally.

Mr Maxwell added: “While anti-social behaviour can be viewed as low-level crime, we are aware that it often has significant impact on communities and individuals. Again, whilst we are delighted that the perception of anti-social behaviour is falling across the City of York and North Yorkshire, there is more that we can and will do to improve our performance in this area.

“This performance is testament to the hard work of our Safer Neighbourhood Teams and our joint working with the local authority Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships.“

The British Crime Survey is viewed as a truer gauge of public perceptions on crime and anti-social behaviour. It is a vital source of information about crime levels including crime not reported to the police, so provides an important alternative to police records

Crime keeps on falling in North Yorkshire and City of York

People in North Yorkshire and the City of York have every reason to feel safe and have confidence in their police service.

That’s the message from Chief Constable Grahame Maxwell in his 2009/10 quarter three performance report delivered to North Yorkshire Police Authority’s

Performance and Scrutiny Board today (Monday1 February 2010).

The North Yorkshire Police force area - the largest in England - remains one of the safest and low-crime places to live and work in the whole country.

Incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour have continued to fall right across the county, thanks to the positive impact of Safer Neighbourhoods policing in partnership with residents, councils and the crime and disorder reduction partnerships.

Between April and December 2009, total recorded crime compared with the same period in 2008 was reduced by 10.5% - in real terms this equates to 3,892 less victims of crime.

Chief Constable Maxwell said this performance is projected to continue to the end of the financial year.

There has also been significant overall crime reductions in theft from a vehicle (915 fewer incidents), personal robbery (33 fewer incidents), theft of a vehicle (223 fewer incidents) and domestic burglary (356 fewer incidents). This has meant North Yorkshire Police’s aggregated Serious Acquisitive Crime performance continues to be well ahead of our Most Similar Force (the group of police forces that NYP is measured against) average with a 24.9% or 1,527 offences reduction on the same point the previous year.

Alongside decreases in crime rates, Chief Constable Maxwell is also pleased to report further improving performance in detecting serious violence, with the number of cases brought to justice increasing from 50.6% in April-December 2008/09 to 68.7% for the same period in 2009/10.

The fight against anti-social behaviour is unrelenting.

North Yorkshire Police has recorded an overall reduction of 4% (1,523 less incidents) in the proportion of incidents classified as anti-social behaviour between April and December 2009 compared with the previous year, of which Chief Constable Maxwell is pleased to report a 5% reduction in rowdy/inconsiderate behaviour incidents - almost 1,200 fewer incidents.

According to the most recent 12 month British Crime Survey figures up to June 2009, the percentage of respondents who perceive anti-social behaviour to be a problem in their local area is amongst the lowest in the country at just 7.8%.

The force also continues to deliver a high-quality service to victim of crimes, with 92.5% of victims saying they were satisfied with the ease of contact, whilst 92.8% were satisfied with the way they were initially treated by officers or staff. These figures on the whole have remained consistent over the last 18 months.

In terms of major enquiries, Chief Constable Maxwell highlights a number of notable achievements for the force in recent months:

Operation Galena: Conducted by the force’s Organised Crime Unit, this was an intensive two-year investigation into heroin dealing in York) of two men commenced in April 08. The two main suspects received seven years’ imprisonment and an associate received two and a half years’ imprisonment last month.

Operation Caddy: The high profile investigation into the murder of an oriental man whose body was found in a canal near Selby has had a significant outcome with two persons charged with murder and a further two charged with attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Operation Fence: Following the kidnap of a 38-year-old woman and her two-year-old Daughter at Skipton, a father and son were convicted of the kidnap and sentenced to a total of 22 years in prison. The Judge commended the investigation team for “assiduous” investigation, which led to the subsequent arrests of the offenders who had thoroughly planned the kidnap and done everything possible to avoid detection.

Operation Hackette: In September 2009, a major investigation commenced into the fire (subsequently deemed arson) that resulted in the deaths of two apprentice jockeys. The male suspect has been charged with two counts of murder, with the trial due to begin in late spring 2010.

North Yorkshire Police has also had significant successes with Operation Badminton (theft and money laundering from Aviva (formerly Norwich Union) in York, as well as the York blackmail investigation Operation Cadet, which resulted in three offenders from the Manchester area being sentenced to a total of 19 years in prison.

Chief Constable Maxwell said: “Performance over the Christmas period has capped a fantastic calendar year for North Yorkshire Police in terms of crime reductions.

“In addition, we have seen positive results in several high-profile major crime investigations over recent weeks that are testament to the hard work and dedication of our officers and staff.

“For the majority of the calendar year we have prided ourselves that we have had the lowest crime rate per head of population and we have done this in challenging circumstances - not least the unheralded influx of visitors to the county in the summer months and the impact of the economic down turn both within North Yorkshire and in our neighbouring counties.


“The figures at a force level are pleasing to report, but it should not detract from the fact that there is still work to do at a local level.

Chief Constable Maxwell added: “Nationally and locally there is a drive to improve public confidence. To do this we must continue to not only reduce crime but we must continue to improve our service under the hallmarks of safer neighbourhoods, enhancing our initial contacts and improving user satisfaction with our services.

“As we move into the new year, North Yorkshire Police and our local agency partners must, and will, continue to actively engage with our communities to understand and deal with the crime and anti-social behaviour issues that matter most as we work together to deliver the best possible policing service to communities of North Yorkshire and City of York.”

Chairman of the Authority’s Performance and Scrutiny Board; Tony Hargreaves added: “This report is excellent news for the communities of North Yorkshire and the City of York and these figures show that the force has continued to perform well in reducing crime and disorder for the communities, both residential and visiting, of North Yorkshire and the City of York. We wholeheartedly recognise that the achievement of reducing incidents by over 10% has not been done in isolation by North Yorkshire Police but in partnership with local councils and communities as well as within the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships in each of the Districts. We acknowledge their part in the efforts to reduce crime and will continue to work closely with them through this next year.

“As the Chief Constable has mentioned, a key aspect of performance for the Authority is for the Force to improve the confidence that people have in it and local councils to tackle those issues that matter in your areas. We are looking forward to working with the Chief and his team through this challenge and, on your behalf, will seek to ensure that the force is effective in not only keeping you safe but making you feel safe