Police strengthen community teams

Police on Sunderland say a newly strengthened police team based in the east of the city has already helped reduce crime.

The established team of a sergeant and nine Pcs was boosted by an additional sergeant and five Pcs from 4 October.

A police spokesman said since then, the team had made 19 arrests for offences ranging from theft and handling stolen goods to drugs and graffiti offences.

The teams are based in the heart of the Hendon community.

'Tackle criminals'

Community Insp Gordon Makepeace, in charge of both teams, said: "These additional police resources have really helped us make a welcome impact in Hendon.

"The main task of community beat managers is to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour and provide public reassurance from a regular uniform presence in Hendon. "

Insp Makepeace has also held a series of meetings with residents - one at Valley Road School, and two at the Bangladeshi Community Centre.

He said: "The feedback I have received has been very positive about our aim to tackle criminals and those responsible for anti-social behaviour.

"With the support of the community as a result of these meetings, we want to send a clear message that if you are responsible for crime and disorder, we have you in our sights."