Issue - meetings

The Committee received a report from Police Sergeant Norden regarding the policing and safer neighbourhoods trends.

The report outlined actions taken since the Committee on 25 July 2013. The current emerging issues/neighbourhood trends for each ward were also highlighted (see report for full details).

Public Question: James Roman (Deputy Coordinator: Abbey Ward Residents Neighbourhood Watch) expressed concern about prolonged drug trafficking and drug dealing in Whitehill Road, Galfrid Road, Rayson Way and Thorleye Road. Concern was also expressed that their regular PCSO had been moved over to Mill Road.  

The Police Sergeant acknowledged the concerns and arranged to meet Mr Roman outside of the meeting to discuss the issue in detail. It was noted that officers had arrested two males in Whitehall Road with ¼ kg of cocaine and both were currently on bail. It was also noted that, whilst the regular PCSO had now been moved, a replacement had been arranged. The new PCSO (Sam Palmer) would be attending Neighbourhood Watch meetings and would be taken around to meet local residents.

In response to members’ questions Sergeant Norden and the Fire Safety Officer confirmed the following:

(i)             Work was on-going between the Police and the Fire Service to monitor empty properties in the City to reduce the threat of arson.

(ii)            The Police and Fire Services actively supported community action days to address fly tipping issues. Work was also undertaken with the City Council to address this.

(iii)          ‘Other Crimes’ as listed in the report normally referred to drug crime and public order offences.

(iv)         Acknowledged the effect that dwelling burglary can have on the victims and highlighted the support available:

-        Follow up visits and advice given by PCSO’s.

-        Advice pack provided.

-        ‘Bobby Scheme’ to give security advice.

-        Referrals to GP’s and Councillors.

-        Local rate victim support line.

With regard to dwelling burglaries, the Chief Inspector for Cambridge confirmed the following:

-        The issue is discussed weekly and was classified as a City wide priority.

-        Dedicated burglary patrols were in place.

-        A dedicated Detectives Team worked solely on burglary across the City.

-        Monitoring visits were undertaken with those released from prison on burglary charges.

The following priorities were unanimously agreed:

(i)             Tackle the supply of drugs in the East area.

(ii)            Policing issues associated with Mill Road.

(iii)          Reduce shoplifting in the East area.