West Midlands Police has launched an appeal following an arson attack at a house in Acocks Green last Sunday (24 July).
CCTV shows the arsonist visiting the property on Broad Road with two large white jerry cans and then returning to set it on fire.
Due to the force of the flare the person setting the fire would have been caught in it and is likely to have suffered flash burns, singed hair and damaged clothing.
Unfortunately, we can’t get a clear image of the offender’s face from the CCTV footage – however we have identified the vehicle driven as a silver Volkswagen Golf Mk6 (2008-2014 model).
Did you see someone filling up two large white containers at a petrol station? Has someone you know recently suffered minor burns?
If you have any information about the attack, the identity of the person responsible or the vehicle used please contact Detective Constable Tom Lyons from Stechford police station on 101.
Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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Police appeal following arson on Broad Lane
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Bus passenger stabbed during phone robbery
Detectives investigating a robbery on the top deck of a Birmingham bus over the Bank Holiday weekend have released CCTV images of two suspects.
It happened on the number 74 as it travelled along the Soho Road in Handsworth outside KFC at just after midnight on Sunday (28 August).
The victim − a 28-year-old man − had his phone snatched from his hand by a woman. He was then approached by a man who stabbed him twice − once in the side of the face and once in the arm − before the pair got off the bus and fled the scene.
His injuries were not serious, but did require surgery.
Images of the two suspects have now been released and officers want to hear from anyone who recognises either of them.
Information can be passed to police by calling 101 or alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Passengers using public transport can report crime or anti-social behaviour by texting ’bus’, ’metro’ or ‘rail’ followed by a space and then details of the incident including time, date, location and route number to 83010.
In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency, always dial 999.
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Over 1000 officers and staff to be recruited
West Midlands Police is recruiting more than 1,000 police officers, PCSOs and staff.
The region’s Police and Crime Commissioner, David Jamieson today announced plans to take on 1,150 new starters over the next three years.
The website for people to register their interest to become a police officer will open this afternoon (Wednesday) and the application process will start in the autumn.
Adverts for specific police staff roles, including PCSOs, will be advertised in due course.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: “My top pledges during my election in May were to recruit police officers, protect PCSOs and put specialist staff in place to tackle the new threats we face. I am delivering on those promises.
“These new police officers and PCSOs will help make our streets safer and tackle crime. This recruitment is at nearly double the rate of my previous term in office and is only happening because of the tough decisions that have been taken to make West Midlands Police more efficient.
“West Midlands Police has faced the biggest cuts of any force in the country and is receiving £2.5 million less from the government again this year. This recruitment of more than 1,000 officers and staff shows that we have the right priorities for the force.
“This new phase of recruitment will also help to make the force look more like the people it serves.”
The new recruitment drive is broken down to 800 new PCs, 200 specialist staff in a range of roles, such as investigators, that will help free officers from their desks and get out on the beat, and 150 PCSOs to maintain their numbers.
The last phase of recruitment for 450 officers opened in 2014 with many successful applicants trained throughout 2015 and on the beat towards the end of last year.
The starting salary for new officers will be £23,964, with a minimum of 22 days annual leave.
The force offers diverse career opportunities, covering local policing, investigation, road policing, firearms and more. The role offers a police pension, based on average career earnings, regular opportunities for professional development, specialist training and a career in serving the public of the West Midlands.
West Midlands Police Chief Constable Dave Thompson added: “It is great news that we again have an opportunity to welcome a new group of recruits into West Midlands Police, which will help us to provide an even better service by bringing fresh ideas into our workforce, directly from the communities we serve.
“Policing is challenging and rewarding. As a constable you’ll get to learn new skills, meet new people and you’ll never know what to expect − each day is different. Our officers are key to delivering our vision of preventing crime, while protecting the public and helping those in need. Whether it’s responding to an emergency or working with local groups to help create a vibrant and caring community, our officers and staff will be the front line in inspiring confidence and really making a difference to people’s lives.
“The area we police is richly diverse, with around 30 per cent of local people coming from ethnic minority backgrounds. We want our force to reflect that and it is key that communities know that we have a strong commitment to equality and diversity.
“We have already made significant steps on recruitment. BME officers now make up nearly a third of our current recruits and we are hopeful that the next phase of recruitment builds on this so that West Midlands Police is representative of the many different cultures it serves.”
• West Midlands Police is the second largest police force in England and is currently undergoing a significant programme aimed at modernising the service. It covers 348 square miles and serves a population of almost 2.8 million, responding to more than 2,000 calls for help daily.
• WMP2020 is the programme of change which will radically overhaul all aspects of policing in the West Midlands. From the way in which the public contact the force to how it responds, investigates and prevents re-offending, this ambitious programme of work will modernise all aspects of the force, with people and technology at its heart. Never before has West Midlands Police undergone such a major review.
• Successful police applicants will need to complete two years as a probationary officer, following this, they may choose to develop their career by working their way up the ranks or specialising in a particular area of policing.
• Police Officer applicants must have a Level 3 qualification (e.g. A Level, AS Level, National Diploma, National Certificate, Level 3 NVQ or City and Guilds, Access to Higher Education Diploma) − check with your examining body if you are unsure of the level of any qualification you hold.
• Officer applicants are not required to have a Certificate in Knowledge of Policing.
• Staff vacancies can be found here: http://jobs.west-midlands.police.uk/
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WMPeople: Detective Sergeant Rich Cook – fighting cross-border crime
Detective Sergeant Rich Cook has been flying the flag for West Midlands Police at Europe’s crime-fighting HQ in The Hague.
During an eight-month secondment to Europol – the EU’s law enforcement agency – he worked with police forces across the Continent to disrupt organised crime gangs and catch cross-border crooks.
His role as part of an intelligence cell was to ensure information on UK crooks – especially ones suspected of being part of wider crime networks in Europe – was shared with overseas forces, while alerting cops back home to new crime trends and foreign national offenders.
Intelligence is vital to fighting crime… and in our latest WMPeople interview DS Cook explains how a phone-call made in Dudley can potentially bring down a crime group in Donetsk!
How did you land the role and what was your responsibility in The Hague?
I was keen to get involved in the pilot; it was an exciting opportunity and a chance to demonstrate my experience of investigating serious organised crime. I was interviewed for the position and had to show how my investigatory and intelligence background could help progress investigations.
I was attached to the UK Liaison Bureau (UKBL) at Europol to provide support to UK Regional Organised Crime Units (ROCUs) – including the West Midlands ROCU which includes Staffordshire, Warwickshire and West Mercia – and sharing intelligence with European colleagues concerning the supply of firearms and exploring opportunities to seize weapons.
My secondment lasted from October 2014 to May this year; it’s part of a pilot programme assessing the value of having officers from UK police regions embedded in Europol.
What exactly is Europol?
Europol supports the sharing of intelligence between police in European countries and helps co-ordinate joint investigations between forces. It is made up of 28 countries, in the main within the EU, but also includes representatives from Australia, the USA and Columbia.
Europol can assist with enquiries that are classified as ‘serious organised crime’ and which impact on two or more member states.
Europol has been involved in numerous seizures of drugs, firearms, people trafficking and cybercrime – these may well prevent criminals from getting hard drugs or guns onto the streets of the West Midlands. So although Europol activity in The Hague may seem a bit distant, far removed from life in the West Midlands, its activity can have a direct impact on protecting our communities at home.
But like with many things in policing, Europol is only as good as the intelligence you put in.
Did your secondment come about because of a belief police forces across Europe, including the UK, were working too much in isolation?
Previously there was only a representative from the Met Police and Police Scotland in Europol’s UK Desk. It was recognised there was a danger important intelligence from police forces in the rest of the UK could be missed and so secondment opportunities like mine were developed to plug that gap.
It’s important we show criminals that borders are no barrier to justice and that we have the capability to work as one to target organised crime.
Europol’s UK desk is made up of representatives from the National Crime Agency, Border Force, Customs & Excise, criminal records office and counter terrorism. In total there are 12 people on the UK Liaison desk.
What does that “intelligence sharing” look like on the ground then?
Intelligence products can be an analysis of crime patterns, information on emerging crime tactics, the movement of suspected criminal gangs, or information on suspects, vehicles, communications, properties or events.
While I was in post I was able to share the UK’s response on gas attacks at cash machines, as Portugal had recently seen the offence for the first time; likewise we were informed of a group of Albanian / Romanian nationals who were attending large music festivals to steal mobile phones as part of organised pick pocketing. That intelligence was shared across neighbouring countries to build into police plans for similar events.
We had a good example recently where an emerging tactic of crooks attacking lorries while on the move was highlighted by eastern European police – it means UK police could be on the look-out for such offences, and the modified vehicles they use to commit the crime where they cut a flap into the roof that opens like a sardine tin to allow them to climb out and onto the bonnet.
Sometimes it’s about sharing best police practice: Danish Police wanted advice around mobile police stations and Polish police on the use of firearms in public order situations.
Was there a ‘typical’ day for you in The Hague?
A typical day involved using secure email systems to share intelligence and liaise with other Europol members over UK nationals suspected of travelling in Europe, particularly the Netherlands, Spain and Portugal to commit crime. It could be to arrange for drugs to be delivered to the UK, payments to be made for drugs, to identify individuals to be trafficked into the UK for the sex trade or for forced labour, or for stolen cars to be driven across.
So, for example, I might receive a message from West Midlands police stating they were investigating a Joe Bloggs for trafficking of drugs and that intelligence suggests he’d been calling Spanish and Dutch phone numbers and it’s believed he travelled to Spain recently. I would send a secure message to my counterparts in Spain and the Netherlands requesting intelligence checks on Joe Bloggs and the phone numbers.
At the same time Europol analysts would cross-check the names and phone numbers against their intelligence databases; this would show if the names or numbers have featured on any other country’s investigations previously. Depending on what comes back this can trigger joint investigations, formal agreements with other countries to target a criminal group.
Towards the end of my tenure we were formalising two joint investigations with the West Midlands ROCU and European forces concerning drug supply, while the Met Police had 16 joint investigations on the go.
How much intelligence flows through Europol?
That’s hard to quantify but Europol has a huge intelligence database and numerous analysts that are able to produce very good intelligence products to target offenders. The flow of intelligence between the UK and Europol is ever increasing whether it be a simple request on an individual or joint investigations.
There have been seizures of drugs and firearms due to the involvement of Europol and working with other countries, ranging from drugs seized from parcels at airports or Europol being involved in initiatives like Operation Trivium in the West Midlands (pictured).
Prior to the pilot starting very few intelligence requests were submitted to Europol from UK Police (outside of the Met and Police Scotland) but when I left submissions were at around 120 a month. From my experience most intelligence requests from the UK are sent to the Dutch, Spain, Ireland, Poland and Albania and the majority of intelligence concerns drug supply, people trafficking and money laundering.
Can you give some examples of recent Europol successes?
Last month French Police, supported by Europol, hit a Moldovan crime group involved in large-scale property crime in France and Belgium. As a result of police in all these countries, through Europol, 12 people were arrested and 13 properties searched.
The operation began at a restaurant in Paris where the suspects had gathered to attend a wedding! The group are suspected of targeting bicycle storage facilities and specialised shops, stealing high-value bikes and moving them to Moldova and the Ukraine.
And in June another international police operation coordinated by Europol led to the seizure of two consignments of cannabis worth £300,000 and two arrests. Led by Moldovan police working with Italian and Slovakian police, one shipment was intercepted on a ferry bound for Italy while more drugs were found in a car en route to Poland.
Did you have an opportunity to explore The Hague when off duty?
My apartment in The Hague was a 10-minute walk to Europol…handy as I also worked out-of-hours on call to fulfil any intelligence requests.
While in The Hague I was able to explore the city’s art galleries and museums. From April to October there are also a number of beach restaurants: they are manmade, sandy beaches and act as the first line of defence in flooding as the Netherlands is below sea level. It’s a bit strange to walk up a hill to get on the beach!
There are a number of really nice nearby towns like Delft and Lieden which have a great deal of history – pottery and Pilgrims – so again really good places to visit.
In order to get to The Hague from the UK, you fly into Schippol airport which services Amsterdam, so quite often I would be on a plane travelling with Stag and Hen parties which was interesting!
How would you sum up your time with Europol?
It was a fantastic experience working overseas on behalf of West Midlands Police and getting a taste for how law enforcement operates in other countries. Secondments like this emphasise what an international community the police force is and when you meet foreign counterparts you know instantly you have one thing in common: we’re all after the bad guys!
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Protect our pensioners! Rallying cry from police to safeguard elderly against doorstep conmen
Elderly residents in the West Midlands are collectively being conned out of a fortune by cruel conmen who trick their way inside homes – now West Midlands Police is urging everyone to play their part in protecting the region’s pensioners.
Latest crime figures recorded by West Midlands Police show that 324 residents – mainly older, vulnerable people – have been duped in the last 12 months by distraction burglars posing as officials, workmen and even police officers.
It’s estimated they’ve lost in excess of £100,000 to the heartless thieves – but detectives believe that could be just the tip of the iceberg with many more offences going unreported.
Last month West Midlands Police detectives investigating thefts and cons against elderly residents in Birmingham made two significant arrests; both men are now remanded in prison ahead of appearances at crown court.
But the force is urging everyone to be alert to the threat and help spread the word to be wary of dodgy doorstep callers.
West Midlands Police Detective Chief Inspector Simon Wallis, said: “Unfortunately there are people out there who think nothing of targeting the most vulnerable in society and stealing from them.
“These are despicable offences…among the most callous we come across. Thieves turn up at people’s homes under the pretences of helping them but, in reality, they are looking for opportunities to steal cash and valuables.
“We’ve seen offenders posing as police officers; council officials; gas, electricity or water company officials; surveyors; rat catchers and workmen of various types.
“I’d encourage anyone who has an elderly relative, neighbour or friend to pop round, check up on them, and ensure they are wary of these criminal tactics. Everyone can play their part – let’s spread the message and hopefully stop more people becoming victims.”
One of the worst cases detectives are investigating saw a 90-year-old man from Hall Green lose £16,000 on 10 October to a fraudster posing as a police officer.
The man is understood to have claimed he was going door-to-door offering crime prevention advice following a spate of break-ins and to ensure any money kept in the house was secure. But when the victim’s back was turned he fled with two carrier bags full of cash.
Last month West Midlands Police arrested a Stechford man on suspicion of posing as a PC to gain entry to pensioners’ homes. Jason Fellowes (38) was charged with four burglaries and remanded into prison ahead of his next court date on 11 December.
And Gurtake Singh, from Hall Green, was arrested following a series of frauds by a conman who’d duped Birmingham residents out of cash with fake stories of ill relatives.
The 37-year-old is accused of taking money – ranging from £20 to £100 – from people by pleading for ‘taxi money’ to visit family in hospital. He’s been charged with 10 counts of fraud plus one burglary and remanded in prison until 28 January 2016.
Det Chief Insp Wallis added: “We’ve recorded 324 ‘distraction burglary’ offences in the last 12 months but we suspect the actual figure could be much higher.
“Many victims may not realise they’ve suffered a theft – perhaps believing they’ve misplaced money or possessions) or not reporting out of a perceived embarrassment they’ve been duped.
“There is nothing to be ashamed of, though, as these conmen can be very convincing. It’s vital people to report offences or suspicious behaviour to us so that we can piece together a picture of offending patterns, potentially link offences and gather evidence.
“Ultimately, our message is never to let anyone into your home who turns up unannounced. If anyone says they’re on official business ask to see identification, check it carefully and phone the organisation they claim to be from. Get a number from the phone book or online – don’t use any number they provide you on a card.
“If in doubt keep them out and call the police on 999.”
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Police operation a success as Queen visits Birmingham
A West Midlands Police and British Transport Police operation for the Queen’s visit to Birmingham has been hailed a success.
Thousands of people flocked to Birmingham to get a glimpse of Her Majesty as she visited Birmingham New Street and Grand Central, the new Metro stop in Bull Street and the Dental Hospital.
A large police operation had been planned for the event to ensure the safety of the visitors and members of the public who attended to watch.
In light of events in Paris additional police patrols were added to the original plan to provide reassurance and armed officers were deployed in the city as a precaution.
ACC Gary Cann, who led the operation for West Midlands Police, said: “It has been a great day for Birmingham with thousands of people getting the chance to see Her Majesty visiting the second city.
“We worked really closely with British Transport Police and other partners to plan for today and we’re delighted the operation has been such a success with no reported issues throughout the day.
“The extra officers that have been on patrol have provided people with reassurance and we were confident that we had plans in place to tackle all eventualities.
“I’d like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has been involved in the security operation and also members of the public who really got into the spirit of the event.”
Ch Supt Peter Holden, who led the operation for British Transport Police, said: “The reopening of New Street by The Queen was a fitting event to celebrate the new gateway to the city.
“We’d like to thank everyone who visited the station this morning for their cooperation as our officers carried out searches and prepared for the arrival of the royal train.
“The comprehensive policing operation at New Street proved a resounding success and was testament to effective partnership working between a number of organisations and the people of Birmingham.”
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson, added: “We were pleased to welcome the Queen to the region. As always officers have done a superb job keeping the Queen and the people of the West Midlands safe.”
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WMP leads biggest vehicle procurement in UK policing history
The biggest vehicle procurement project in police and emergency services history will see 34 organisations work together to save over £7 million.
This ambitious plan, spearheaded by West Midlands Police, pulls together the vehicle buying power of police and fire and rescue services from across the country from Devon & Cornwall through to Northumberland.
The success of the project is down to the expertise and professionalism of the procurement and fleet departments across the organisations.
As a result, over 3,000 vehicles will be ordered by the organisations over the next two years, with 1200 of them being built in Britain and 248 of them coming to the West Midlands.
As the biggest vehicle collaboration of its kind in the UK, it is estimated that the overall spend resulting from this contract is in excess of £100 million when taking in to account the ‘whole life’ costs of the vehicles (the initial purchase along with fuel, maintenance, parts and repairs). The group will make savings of between six and seven million pounds.
Breaking that down locally, the vehicle whole life costs for WMP would be over £8 million with a saving in excess of £1m.
The contract is for the full range of police vehicles, from ‘beat’ cars, through to high performance cars used for traffic and motorway policing. Suppliers were selected from a list of companies on the national government framework agreement, specifically for ‘blue light’ services.
David Wilkin, WMP’s Director of Resources and the national policing lead for the procurement of vehicles (pictured right), commented: “A vehicle purchasing collaboration between police forces and partners on this scale has never been seen before and I am delighted to say it has been a huge success in terms of the savings made and how well the organisations have worked together.
“The success of this group builds on the achievements of a large scale vehicle procurement project led by West Yorkshire Police earlier in the year.
“While cost is clearly a driving factor, the most important aspect is that these vehicles need to be the most suitable and safest available for our staff and the public.
“How we buy and operate them has to represent good value to the public. We are committed to ensuring that where posible the associated costs will be invested in the region, whether that is fuel purchases or using local garages and businesses for parts and repairs.
“All suppliers in the process had to demonstrate their working relationship with local dealerships to ensure that going forward maintenance of the vehicles such as warranty repairs are carried out locally, ensuring we continue to support the local economy.”
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson(pictured left) said: “West Midlands Police are leading the way by bringing together a group of over 30 police and fire forces to buy vehicles together. By working together greater value for money for the public purse has been achieved. All of the maintenance of West Midlands Police’s vehicles is done in the region to support the local economy too.
“This deal represents a significant investment in British manufacturing. This deal is value for money and therefore good news for the public.”
The group has selected the following suppliers:
Cars: General Motors UK Ltd t/a Vauxhall, Volvo, BMW.
Vans: Ford, General Motors UK Limited t/a Vauxhall
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Underground online pirates sentenced to 17 years
Five members of an underground piracy group who illegally released the latest blockbusters onto the web have been jailed for more than 17 years.
Officers from West Midlands Police Economic Crime Unit and the West Midlands Government Agency Intelligence Network (GAIN) supported a landmark investigation which was led by the Federation Against Copyright Theft ( FACT )
Picture - clockwise from top left - Reece Baker, Ben Cooper, Sahil Rafiq and Scott Hemming
The case marks the first time that organised ’release groups’ have been prosecuted.
The five men sought on-line recognition for being the first to illegally source and release the latest films or for producing the ‘best’ illegal quality copies.
Over a number of years the groups illegally released more than 2,500 films. On just one of their sharing websites there had been millions of downloads costing the industry millions of pounds.
During the sentencing hearing all five men accepted that they had caused total losses in excess of £5 million, each accepting a loss of more than £1 million.
Sahil Rafiq, Reece Baker, Graeme Reid, Ben Cooper and Scott Hemming, all pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud on 28th January 2015 and were sentenced to imprisonment at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Thursday 17th December. The sentences are detailed below:
• Rafiq, 25 from Wolverhampton received 4 years and 6 months.
• Baker, 23 from Birmingham received 4 years and 2 months.
• Reid, 41 from Chesterfield received 3 years and 6 months.
• Cooper, 34 from Wolverhampton received 3 years and 6 months.
• Hemming, 27 from Birmingham received 2 years suspended sentence.
The five men were arrested at their homes on 1 February 2013 following an investigation by FACT with support from West Midlands Regional Organised Crime Unit (WM ROCU) and officers from Derbyshire, Hertfordshire and GAIN.
Kieron Sharp, Director General of the Federation Against Copyright Theft, said: “This sentencing is a great success for FACT as it marks the first time a release group has been criminally prosecuted. Rafiq, Baker, Reid, Cooper and Hemming were all aware that they were engaging in criminal activity. Their actions have now cost them their liberty.
“The result of this case sends out a serious message to anyone engaging in online piracy to think twice or face getting caught, prosecuted and sent to prison.”
Regional GAIN Co-ordinator Jason Grove, from West Midlands Regional Organised Crime Unit commented: “This highlights how seriously we are taking this sort of criminal activity and just how closely police are working with partner agencies such as FACT to tackle organised crime.”
“The multi-agency approach adopted by WM ROCU and the GAIN Network shows just how effective we can be when sharing our information and working together.”
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PCSO David donates kidney to save life
As a police community support officer (PCSO) he is used to protecting the public - and now David Footman is preparing to help save his brother’s life.
The big-hearted West Midlands Police officer will donate a kidney to his older sibling Paul who needs a transplant.
The 39 year-old chef has suffered from adult polycystic kidney disease for over a decade but his condition has deteriorated.
Kind David, who is part of the Stechford & North Yardley team, has stepped in after being a match for father-of-one Paul - who faces kidney failure without a transplant or dialysis.
It is due to take place in the next few months and his caring instincts have been described as typical of the 37 year-old officer from Kings Norton.
Paul, of Birmingham, said: "I was diagnosed in 2001. It was after my father was diagnosed and we had to have blood tests to see if we had the condition.
"Over the last five years it has really taken a nose dive and now it has come to the point where I need dialysis or a kidney transplant.
"I have had to cut my hours at work through being tired and the transplant will hopefully allow me to live a normal life.
"I am really grateful to him, even though he is my brother what he is prepared to do is an unbelievable gesture. It will be a life saver.
"This is the kind of person he is, he is always willing to help others and why he is an ideal police officer."
Father-of-two David has been a PCSO for seven years and will return to the streets after a period of recuperation.
The modest officer said: "We didn’t really have a conversation, I knew he was getting worse and he needed to have this done.
"I am just grateful I am able to help. I like to make a difference as a PCSO and with it being family this was always something I was going to do.
“Hopefully, we can raise awareness of kidney disease and the importance of diagnosis.
"The force has been really supportive and I am looking forward to joining back up with the rest of the team afterwards."
Sergeant Mick Wilson, neighbourhood policing supervisor for Stechford & North Yardley, added: "I think it is incredibly brave what he is doing. But is just goes to show the type of person he is and is a credit to the force."
For more information on organ donation, including how to sign-up to the register visit: www.organdonation.nhs.uk
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Coventry crime network crushed − gang members jailed for 43 years
Seven gang members - including five from Coventry - have been jailed for a total of 43 and a half years after West Midlands Police crushed their crime network and seized a stash of firearms.
Mohammed Khan, Faiser Ali, Andrew Mercer, David Smith, Lewis Coulton, Stefan Rainer and David Hanbury are the latest career criminals put behind bars as part of a concerted offensive on organised crime in Coventry by police and partner organisations.
The initiative - codenamed Operation Blue Steel - was launched last year and has already seen scores of suspected gang members arrested, plus weapons, drugs and cash seized, during a series of raids across the city.
Detectives linked the gang to a Leicestershire burglary on 8 January 2015 at the home of a firearms licence holder when shotguns were stolen from a secure cabinet.
Police intelligence showed that Khan (32) and 23-year-old Ali travelled to Leicester three days later to collect the weapons from Rainer and later stashed them at 26-year-old Smith’s home in King George’s Avenue, Foleshill.
One shotgun was found hidden in the loft space of the property during a police raid on 30 January last year, while examination of a phone also seized there revealed a photo of all four guns taken from the Barrow-upon-Soar break-in.
Two more stolen shotguns, plus a pair of revolvers and live ammunition, were recovered by West Midlands Police officers during a warrant in Mount Pleasant Close, Bedworth, on April 1 when they found Mercer (40) and 21-year-old Coulton modifying the weapons.
They tried escaping through a rear window but were intercepted by armed police guarding the rear of the property.
Detectives were also able to link Khan, Ali, Rainer and 36-year-old Hanbury to a burglary in Cossington, Leicestershire, on 14 January when a BMW and Porsche were taken.
Plain clothes cops observed Hanbury and Rainer behind the wheel of the stolen cars at a bingo hall in Leicester and driving through the city in convoy with Khan and Ali; the Porsche was later recovered in Swinton and the BMW in Lockhurst Lane, Coventry.
Ali, Khan and Hanbury were arrested during co-ordinated police hits at their homes on June 25 last year.
A phone taken from Khan in Churchill Avenue, Foleshill, contained text messages referring to attacks on rival gangs, while a photo recovered from another mobile seized from Ali’s home in Lythalls Lane showed him posing with a handgun.
Khan and Ali denied possessing firearms and handling stolen goods but following a trial at Birmingham Crown Court were found guilty and today (15 Jan) jailed for 15-and-a-half and 9-and-a-half years respectively.
Mercer, from Berkeley Road North, and Bedworth man Coulton admitted conspiracy to possess firearms and were jailed for 9 years and 5 years.
Smith was found guilty of possessing a shotgun within intent to cause fear of violence and imprisoned for 4 years, while Hanbury, from Days Close in Hillfields, was given a 18 month suspended sentence and 250 hours of unpaid work.
Rainer is due to be sentenced on Friday 22 January.
Detective Chief Inspector Simon Wallis, from WMP’s Force Priorities Team, said: "This is a group of career criminals with a history of drug dealing, violence and firearms offences…the streets of the West Midlands are safer with them behind bars.
"Police intelligence confirmed that Khan and Ali travelled to Leicester three days after the burglary to collect the shotguns and then stored at Smith’s home in Foleshill. Through our enquiries we have recovered three shotguns, plus two revolvers, and prevented them falling into the hands of criminals who would undoubtedly have used them to commit offences."
Coventry Police Superintendent Mandy Platt - one of the lead officers on Operation Blue Steel - urged members of the public to contact them if they had suspicions of criminal behaviour in their neighbourhood.
She added: "There are few things more infuriating than seeing people with no job, and no obvious income, driving around in expensive cars, going on luxury holidays and generally enjoying a lifestyle that’s seemingly beyond their means.
"It may well be that lifestyle is being funded by crime…we want to hear people’s concerns so that we can take action and stop criminals in their tracks."
West Midlands Police can be contacted on the 101 number or speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
Photographs (top to bottom, L-R): Mohammed Khan and Faiser Ali; Andrew Mercer, Lewis Coulton, and Stefan Rainer; and David Smith and David Hanbury.
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Help us find park bike menaces – police tough stance against off-road riders
Police in south Birmingham have issued images of men suspected of tearing through children’s play parks and dog-walking hotspots on off-road bikes – and warned they will seize scramblers ridden anti-socially.
One man is photographed pulling a wheelie along a footpath in Senneleys Park while others are seen cruising past swings and climbing frames.
Neighbourhood Police officers have heard first-hand accounts from parents and dog walkers who’ve said they no longer feel safe using some parks in the Bartley Green and Quinton areas due to the off-road bike menace.
PC Heidi Kennedy, said: “Worried members of the public have provided the images – and I’m asking if anyone recognises the men or the distinctive orange bike, or has information that could help us, to get in touch so we can take action.
“It is totally unacceptable for people to use local parks for off-road biking: it’s dangerous and a real noise nuisance. The parks should be relaxing, safe areas for people to spend time – they are not race tracks and people’s enjoyment of the parks is being ruined.”
It’s illegal to ride bikes in a manner that might cause alarm or distress to a member of the public, while bikers using public parkland are also committing motoring offences.
PC Kennedy added: “We will look to issue warning notices to offenders – anyone ignoring the warning faces having their bike seized and crushed and a date in court.”
The neighbourhood team has also issued an image of a man illegally riding an off-road bike with no registration plates in Overbury Road, Northfield, on 6 August.
Earlier this month, West Midlands Police blitzed anti-social riders during a day of action that saw 10 off-road bikes seized – including quad bikes, scramblers and mini-moto’s – and arrests made in Birmingham, Wolverhampton and Coventry.
Anyone with information about the bikers is urged to call the Edgbaston Neighbourhood Police Team on the 101 number or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
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West Midlands Police named among UK’s most ‘inclusive’ employers
West Midlands Police has been praised for its “dedication to diversity and equality" after being named one of the country’s most inclusive employers.
The force is ranked seventh in the ‘Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers’ list − compiled by judges from the Excellence in Diversity Awards − which showcases organisations that have demonstrated commitment to workplace diversity.
Judges consider each organisation’s efforts to promote inclusivity across all diversity strands − including age, disability, gender, race, LGBT and faith − with a focus on recruitment, training and specific initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining a diverse workforce.
West Midlands Police is the highest ranked police force on the list ahead of South Wales (14th), Lancashire (16th), Surrey (28th), West Yorkshire (29th) and Greater Manchester (38th).
West Midlands Police Chief Constable Dave Thompson, said: “I’m extremely proud to be at the helm of one of the most inclusive organisations in the UK…and pleased our efforts have been recognised. There is still more work to do but this is great progress.
“Promoting diversity in the force across all protected characteristics is crucial in order to accurately reflect the communities we serve and to ensure we are effective in preventing crime and protecting people."
Paul Sesay, CEO of The Inclusive Top 50, added: ‘’It’s crucial to highlight best practices in workforce diversity. There is a need to promote these practices and the organisations carrying out pioneering work in this arena to set an example to other employers.
“The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List has identified true leaders in this field − of which West Midlands Police is one of the frontrunners. The force’s position on the list reflects the high standard to which they operate and its continuous dedication to diversity, equality and inclusion."
Almost nine per cent of West Midlands Police officers are from Black & Minority Ethnic (BME) communities - the second highest representation in UK policing - and the force has introduced a Positive Action programme aimed at attracting, developing and retaining BME staff.
‘Discovery Days’ at universities and schools, community centres and places of worship have been held to encourage applications from BME communities − and it’s paid off as nearly a third of the force’s latest PC recruits hail from BME communities.
Gary Stack is Chairman of West Midlands Police’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transsexual (LGBT) group. He said: “WMP now features in the Stonewall Top 100 employers as well as the Inclusive Top 50 which is something to be very proud of. Ultimately, if we get it right for our people, they will perform better and provide the best possible service to the public who deserve a well-rounded, representative police service.
“By no means is this achievement an excuse to sit back and relax: there’s still much to do and there are so many passionate and dedicated people within WMP who work tirelessly to make the organisation more representative and diverse. This achievement is a nod to them and the great work they do."
LGBT Network chairman PC Gary Stack, PCC David Jamieson and LGBT Network committee member Billy Corrigan launch the Allies initiative last month - a scheme to promote equality in the workplace.
West Midlands Police has also boosted the number of female officers among its ranks.
Female recruits made up more than a third (36.4%) of the most recent intake of PCs with women now accounting for more than four in 10 (41.5%) of all WMP staff.
In addition, 30 per cent of the force’s superintendent ranks are filled by female officers and two of its seven Chief Officers are women.
Other organisations featuring on the ‘Inclusive Top 50 List’ − which was topped by mental health charity Touchstone − include British Airways, the Ministry of Justice, The Open University, SKY, Age UK and ASDA.
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Police granted more time to quiz terror suspects
Detectives have been given extra time to question five men who were arrested last Friday (26 August) on suspicion of terrorism offences.
Three of the men were arrested by West Midlands Counter Terrorism officers in Birmingham and two in the Stoke area of Staffordshire on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Detectives were granted a further seven day extension following an application to Westminster Magistrates Court today (Thursday).
Following the arrests, searches were conducted at a number of locations in Birmingham and Stoke; a search of premises in Lee Bank was supported by the Army Bomb Disposal Team. The searches concluded on Tuesday.
Chief Superintendent Sue Southern, from West Midlands Police, said: “The further warrant of detention allows us to detain the men for another seven days and continue with our investigation.”
Anyone with information about possible terrorist activity should call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline: 0800 789 321 or dial 999 in an emergency.
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Appeal to find missing teenager
Police are appealing for help in tracing a missing teenager who is believed to have travelled to Birmingham.
Jessie Morgan - who is aged 17 and also goes by the name Jamelia - was last seen in the Leamington Spa area on 24 August.
Jessie - who has been missing before - is described as 5ft 1ins tall, of slim build and has two piercings in her lower lip.
She has been known to frequent Birmingham City Centre and was last seen wearing a black hooded top, black boots and carrying a green bag.
Anyone with information can call the Locate team on 101 or the Missing charity on 116 000.
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Man arrested after woman critically injured in Birmingham collision
A woman is in a critical condition in hospital after a collision in Sparkbrook last night (Thursday 1 September).
The woman was travelling with a man and two children, a 12-year-old girl and a four-year-old boy, who also suffered minor injuries, when their Toyota Corolla was hit by a silver Citroen C3 at the junction of Medlicott Road and Abbotsford Road just after 9.30pm.
Moments earlier the C3 had made off from police after they had instructed the vehicle to pull over. The driver ran from the scene, but was arrested nearby in a garage after a short footchase.
The 34-year-old was taken to hospital with minor injuries and is currently in custody on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of a collision.
Sergeant Alan Wood, from the regional Collision Investigation Unit, said: "The road was closed for several hours while we established the circumstances of the collision and I would urge anyone who witnessed what happened to contact us on 101 if they have not already spoken to an officer."
The matter will also be referred to the IPCC (Independent Police Complaints Commission) as is normal procedure in this type of incident.
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Detectives launch murder investigation following Coventry attack
Detectives have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man found with serious head injuries at an address in Coventry
Officers were called to a disturbance at a property in Hugh Road, in the Stoke area of the city, at around 6:10am on Friday 26 August.
A 36-year-old man was found with life-threatening injuries and taken to hospital – but his condition deteriorated and he died on Wednesday evening (31 August).
A post mortem revealed that the man, who has not yet been formally identified, died as a result of significant head injuries
Specialist officers from the force’s Family Liaison Unit are supporting the family at this difficult time.
Unemployed Drew Thorpe, aged 19 from Hollis Road and mechanic, Stephen Weeks, aged 47 from Hugh Road were arrested at the scene and charged with attempted murder. They have been remanded in police custody while detectives continue to investigate the circumstances of the man’s death.
Detective Sergeant Michelle Kiedron from Coventry CID, said: “We’re in the early stages of the investigation but we know that the victim and suspects were known to each other. My team are also currently reviewing the original charges as this is now a murder inquiry.
“We continue to piece together the circumstances of this man’s death and I would urge anyone who has any information -regardless of how insignificant you think it may be to please get in touch.”
Information can be passed directly to DS Kiedron by calling 101 or, to speak anonymously, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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Callous conmen stole pensioner’s savings – do you recognise them?
Police are hunting two cruel conmen who posed as council staff to trick their way inside a pensioner’s home before stealing handbags containing her savings.
The two suspects struck in Baldwin Street, Bilston, after claiming they’d been sent to carry out building work.
It’s understood the 79-year-old victim let the men into her home and later discovered that two handbags had been swiped from a sofa.
The burglary – which occurred at around 5.30pm on 25 August – is one of several distraction burglaries reported in recent weeks in the Wolverhampton area.
Detective Constable Paul Jones from Wolverhampton Police CID’s Investigation Team, said: “Distraction offences of this type are truly appalling: these men have deliberately targeted an elderly lady, one who struggles to get around, to steal from.
“She has taken them at their word and let them inside the address…and now she’s struggling to come to terms with the fact she’s been tricked out of several hundred pounds. It’s money she can ill afford to lose.
“We’ve secured some good quality CCTV images of the two suspects and I’d urge anyone who believes they recognise the men to get in touch. They have deliberately conned a vulnerable pensioner…they do not deserve any protection.
“I’d ask people to look into their consciences and ask what would they do if these people had targeted an elderly relative of theirs. I want to know who these two thieves are so we can get justice for the victim and her family.”
CCTV seized by detectives shows one of the men wearing a high-visibility vest. The men are described as white and in their late teens or early 20s; one is noticeably taller than the other.
Anyone who believes they recognise the men is urged to call Detective Constable 2282 Paul Jones on the 101 number – quoting crime number WV/165650A/16 – or the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
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Murder investigation underway after stabbing in Wolverhampton
Murder detectives have launched an investigation after a man was stabbed to death in Wolverhampton this morning (Saturday 3 September).
Emergency services were called to the scene on Carter Road in the Whitmore Reans area of the city at around 7am.
The victim, aged in his 30s, but who is yet to be formally identified, was found in the street having suffered multiple stab wounds.
Despite the efforts of medical crews he was pronounced dead in hospital shortly after 8am.
Police have cordoned off Carter Road while the full circumstances of what happened are established and for a forensic examination of the scene to take place.
No arrests have yet been made but officers are actively following up several lines of enquiry this morning and are working at pace to close-in on the person thought to be responsible.
Anyone who was in the area at the time and thinks they may have seen anything which could assist police is asked to call 101 as soon as possible.
Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone who saw a grey Audi A3 speeding away from the scene in the moments after the attack.
Detective Inspector Jim Munro, from the Force CID, said: “We believe this assault was targeted and I would like to reassure the community that there is no risk to the wider public.
“Finding the killer is the absolute priority for me and my team right now and there is lots of work going on behind the scenes to get that person in custody as quickly as possible."
Alternatively information can be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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Motorcyclist dies in Brierley Hill collision
A motorcyclist had died after a crash in Stourbridge overnight.
The rider, a 20-year-old man, came off the black Harley Davidson bike at around 2.10am today (Saturday 3 September) on Brettell Lane in Brierley Hill.
Despite the efforts of emergency services he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The man’s family is being supported by specially trained officers from the Regional Collision Investigation Unit, which is working to understand exactly what happened.
Sgt Chris Ridge said: “The circumstances leading up to the fatal crash are still unclear and we are working hard build a better picture of events in the moments before the incident.
“If you can help us with this investigation and have not yet spoken to officers at the scene, then I would please ask that you give us a call on 101."
Sgt Ridge added: “Our thoughts are with the biker’s family who have asked for their privacy to be respected at this difficult time."
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Search for missing man called off after body found
The search for a missing Birmingham man has today (Saturday 3 September) been called off after police in Snowdonia found a body.
Officers from the West Midlands have been working closely with North Wales Police to try and find Carl Newbold-Comyns since he disappeared on Thursday night.
At around 9am this morning a man was found dead inside a car in the Llyn Carfnant area of the Snowdonia National Park.
Although the person has not yet been formally identified, it is believed to be the missing 48-year-old from Sutton Coldfield.
The death is not being treated as suspicious and specialist officers are currently supporting Carl’s family, who ask for their privacy to be respected at this difficult time.
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