West Midlands Police is supporting additional security measures set to be put in place by Birmingham City Council to bolster safety at Birmingham’s German and Frankfurt Christmas market.
Barriers will be installed on Temple Street and Bennetts Hill today (Thursday) in addition to the concrete bollards that were put in place at a number of locations several weeks ago.
The extra measures have been brought in following consultation with the local authority, emergency services and local businesses after the attack at the Christmas market in Berlin on Monday evening.
Police are keen to stress that this additional security is not based on any new or emerging intelligence. The security threat level nationally remains unchanged at Severe meaning an attack is highly likely.
As ever the public are urged to remain alert and not alarmed. Everyone is advised to be vigilant and to report any concerns to the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321. In an emergency, always dial 999.
Superintendent Andy Parsons, from Birmingham Central police station, said: Suspicious activity is anything that seems out of place, unusual or just doesn’t seem to fit in with day-to-day life - Let us decide if it is important.
“We work tirelessly to counter terrorism. Our absolute priority is to ensure the safety and security of the people who live, work and visit the West Midlands area.
“Our policing tactics and security measures are being reviewed on a daily basis - we have a dedicated police response in place for the market and we, along with our partners, are working around the clock to keep Birmingham and our other cities as safe as can be.”
He continued: “It is a busy time of year for the city and we want to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for everyone who visits over the festive period.”
↧
Police support additional safety measures at Birmingham's Christmas market
↧
Three teens arrested in car-jacking investigation
Detectives investigating a series of car-jackings across Birmingham have arrested three teenagers.
The boys – two aged 15 and one aged 16, all from Hall Green – were arrested by officers this morning (Thurs 22 December) in connection with vehicle robberies in the Moseley area.
It’s suspected the trio were involved in robberies on parkland in Moseley and in Acocks Green.
They are currently in police custody for questioning.
Meanwhile, officers are searching for another group of men who attacked a 41-year-old man on his own driveway last Thursday (15 Dec) before stealing his car.
The man had parked outside his home in Livingstone Road when he was approached by one of the suspects who asked him if he was okay, then demanded his car keys.
He tried to run to the front door but was dragged to the ground and assaulted by four men until he released the keys.
The thieves drove off in the man’s blue Audi SQ5, which has now been recovered and retained for forensic examination.
Fortunately the man only suffered minor injuries.
Detectives believe the offenders were driven to Livingstone Road in a light blue 05-plate Ford Focus which drove off in the direction of Alcester Road South while the stolen vehicle was driven towards Brandwood Road.
Good quality footage of the incident has been released by detectives in a bid to identify those involved.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the High Harm and Vulnerability team at Bournville Lane Police Station on 101 or by emailing Sergeant Toni Holl on a.holl@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
Crime number: 20BW/247918G/16
↧
↧
Family pay tribute to man killed in Coventry collision
The family of a man who died following a collision in Coventry have paid tribute to their “kind hearted husband and father… who brought a smile to everybody’s face”.
Robert Morris known as Rob to his friends and family was struck by a car on Ansty Road on Saturday 17 December.
The 57-year-old was taken to hospital where he was treated for serious injuries but despite the best efforts of medical staff he sadly died on 20 December.
The family have paid an emotional tribute to their loved one, they said: “We are utterly devastated over the sudden loss of our loving, kind hearted husband and father.
“He always brought a smile to everybody’s face and could brighten any room with his fun-filled nature.
“His generosity and warmth to all those who knew him will leave nothing but fond memories.
“He was an amazing man whose main priority in life was his family and he will be greatly missed. The world is an emptier place without him. “
Officers investigating the collision are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Sergeant Alan Wood, from the force’s Collision Investigation Unit, said: "A number of witnesses have already come forward but I would appeal to anyone else who may have witnessed what happened to contact us.
“I believe that there may have been a hackney carriage taxi in the area at the time of the collision and I need the driver to come forward as they may hold vital information.
“Specialist officers continue to liaise with the family of Mr Morris and our thoughts remain with them at this sad time."
The driver of the car stopped at the scene and is assisting officers with the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to call Sgt Alan Wood at the collision investigation unit on 101 or email FL_COLLISION_INVEST@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk.
↧
Family of murdered man Surjit Takhar re-appeal for information eight years after his death
As another year draws to a close, the family of a missing man, whose remains were found by the M54 a year ago, are appealing for help to trace his killer.
Surjit Takhar was 37 when he was reported missing from his home in Oldbury by his family on Wednesday 8 October 2008.
Nearly seven years later maintenance workers found his remains at the bottom of an embankment next to the slip road of junction 4 of the M54 in Telford on 20 August 2015.
West Mercia Police conducted a full forensic examination and a DNA profile, along with dental records, confirmed the remains were those of Mr Takhar, however the cause of his death remained unexplained.
As Mr Takhar’s family face another year without answers, they are joining detectives in a fresh appeal for information to help them discover how he died.
Surjit was a loving father to his son Harry, aged 21, and 22-year-old twin girls Sohnia and Sohnay.
Surjit’s brother-in-law Jasvir Sohl had a great relationship with him, he said: "Surjit Takhar was a genuine, one in a million individual who loved with all his heart and was loved by us all. Kind, thoughtful and helpful, who could light up a place like no other.
"We are heartbroken we will never see him again and know he would feel the same that he will not be able to see and embrace loving moments in this life with his friends and family.
"He will always live in all our and all his families hearts just as we will in his. We can only pray his soul is at rest and has found peace."
Detective Inspector Jim Munro, from Force CID, said: "Mr Takhar’s death is being treated as a murder enquiry and we are keen to speak to anyone who has any information at all about his disappearance in 2008 or his whereabouts at that time.
"We particularly want to speak to someone who called police in January this year saying they had information about Mr Takhar, but the call was cut off before the caller’s name could be taken.
"I would urge that person to contact us again. The information they have could be vital in helping us to get the answers that Mr Takhar’s family deserve."
Anyone with information should call detectives on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
↧
No festive joy for football louts after WMP secures banning orders
Football louts will miss out on the traditional festive fixtures after West Midlands Police secured banning orders during an on-going crackdown on troublemakers.
The force has obtained three-year Football Banning Orders (FBOs) as an unwanted Christmas present for fans of Aston Villa, Wolves and Coventry City during the last week.
The West Midlands Police football unit took court action to prevent the three supporters attending games in response to separate cases of football-related disorder.
L-R: Craig Page, Daniel Gadsden and Ryan Teeling
Villa fan Craig Page was amongst supporters who tried to force his way past police and confront rival Birmingham City fans ahead of the cup game at Villa Park in September last year.
The 31-year-old was part of a group involved in violence and disorder dating back to 2010 - including trouble at a pub before the Sheffield Wednesday away match in August.
Page of Romsley Road, Bartley Green, was given the civil banning order at Birmingham Magistrates Court last Monday (19 December).
Officers also gained an FBO against Wolves supporter Daniel Gadsden who was within a different group involved in disorder at Wanderers games.
This included a fight at a pub with Peterborough fans in and a catalogue of occasions of goading opposition fans and police officers.
The 23-year-old of Granville Street, Telford, was hit with the order - which also means being at least five miles away from where Wolves or England are playing for three hours before and after a game - at Walsall Magistrates Court last Friday (16 December).
Furthermore, Coventry City supporter Ryan Teeling received an FBO after trying to cause trouble with opposition supporters after the Millwall game last season.
The 24-year-old was also given a suspended eight month prison sentence for a public order offence after throwing a bottle at police officers who were trying to move fans on in Foleshill Road last April.
Teeling, of Clovelly Road, Coventry, previously served a four year ban and received the fresh order when sentenced at Leamington Crown Court on Wednesday (21 December).
Sergeant Mick Wilkinson, from the force’s football unit, said: "The festive fixtures are a long-held tradition for many football fans and the unacceptable behaviour of these three is now coming back to haunt them.
"The orders are not only given to people convicted of violence or disorder at matches but anyone who commits a football-related offence such as fighting or damaging property in a pub whilst watching a match.
"We work with clubs across the region to tackle football-related disorder and these FBO’s should send out a strong warning that it will not be tolerated - whoever you support."
↧
↧
Life savings stolen in distraction burglary
Police have released CCTV images of four men they want to trace who callously stole an elderly woman’s life savings in Kitts Green.
One of the men posed as a workman dressed in a hi-vis jacket. He knocked the door about a flood in the 77-year-old’s back garden, he then took her through the house out of the way and kept her talking while his three accomplices entered the property on Yockleton Road and took her cash.
All four then made off in what is believed to be a white Ford Transit Connect with ladders on the roof around 3.30pm on Monday 19 December.
Detective Constable Nigel Box is investigating the theft. He said: “This is an appalling crime against a vulnerable member of the community.
“The lady was targeted because of that vulnerability and the offenders managed to get away with many thousands of pounds of her life savings.
“While she and her family struggle to come to terms with what has happened, the suspects are free to spend and enjoy her money. I urge anybody with information about these callous thieves to come forward.”
Officers are continuing to trawl CCTV in the area and are asking anyone who can assist with the investigation to call on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
↧
Trio convicted of terrorism offences
Three men, including one from Coventry, have today (Friday 23 December) been found guilty of terrorism offences. Two of the men were planning to travel to Iraq to engage in terrorism. One of them was arrested by counter terrorism officers hiding in the back of a lorry in Dover, as he attempted to leave the country undetected.
Aras Mohammed Hamid (left), aged 26, of no fixed address, was found guilty of two counts of preparing for acts of terrorism following trial at Kingston Crown Court in London. The court heard he had been pivotal in planning for himself and another defendant to travel to the conflict zone and engage in acts of terrorism.
Hamid was also convicted of having a false Bulgarian passport; he had pleaded guilty to this offence at an earlier hearing.
Shivan Hayder Azeez Zangana (middle), (also known as Aziz) aged 21, from Washington Road, Sheffield, was convicted of one offence of preparing for acts of terrorism. He had been in contact with Hamid about going to Iraq, before travelling from Sheffield to Birmingham, where he was arrested by officers from the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit (WMCTU).
Aziz had claimed that he wanted to go home to Iraq but evidence proved that he had in fact been radicalised by Hamid and his purpose for wanting to travel was to join Daesh.
A third man, Ahmad Ismail (right), aged 19, from Portwrinkle Avenue, Coventry, was found guilty of failing to disclose information about the planned travel to the conflict zone.
The court heard that Ismail’s brother, Mohammed Ismail, travelled to Syria to fight with the Daesh in 2014 and Ahmad Ismail is believed to have originally intended to travel with Hamid and Aziz, but changed his mind after concerns over his brother’s status. The court heard the three were arrested in May 2016 by officers from WMCTU.
The investigation began, when a concerned relative of Aziz made a 999 call to police in South Yorkshire, claiming he had left his home in Sheffield and was planning to leave to join a terrorist organisation. Another relative claimed Aziz had told people who was going to sacrifice himself to God. Worried relatives told officers Aziz’s behaviour had recently changed and he had stopped going out and listening to music and was only listening to readings from the Quran.
Following a police investigation, which discovered Aziz had travelled by train to Birmingham, officers arrested Aziz from a residential area above a mosque in Holyhead Road, Handsworth on 17 May 2016. Also at the Birmingham address was Hamid, a Kurdish asylum seeker, who had arrived in the country in September 2015.
Although he wasn’t arrested at this point, police seized some of Hamid’s property, including a mobile phone. As a result of this, officers discovered Hamid, using facilitators in Turkey, was arranging to travel to Iraq to fight for Salahaddin Battalion, a Kurdish group fighting for the Daesh. Evidence also found Aziz was also planning to travel to the conflict zone to fight and that Ismail was known about and discussed the travel. Aziz and Hamid had booked flights to Iraq through a travel agency in Birmingham.
After the arrest of Aziz, Hamid fled Birmingham and following enquiries, was arrested on 19 May 2016 in a lay-by hiding in a lorry, near to the Port of Dover. Officers discovered Hamid had sneaked into the back of the cab while the driver was asleep and was found lying behind pallets. Ismail was arrested by counter-terrorism officers on 22 May 2016 at his home in Coventry.
All three will be sentenced in January.
Head of WMCTU, Chief Superintendent Sue Southern, said: “As a result of enquiries, counter-terrorism investigators discovered Hamid’s instrumental role in organising travel plans for himself and Aziz for preparation for acts of terrorism. We also uncovered examples of Hamid’s extreme ideology and radicalisation and the pivotal role he played in orchestrating the travel plans for himself and Aziz.
“Evidence shows Ismail, a local student, was in contact with Hamid and was well aware of plans to travel to the conflict zone.
“There is always a danger that people travelling to Syria and Iraq will be trained and come back and be a threat to the UK. We also need to be aware of the far reaching effects on local communities and the families of those involved.
“In recent months we have seen the dangers of trained terrorists returning to Europe to commit acts of terrorism which emphasises how important it is for officers to prevent travel.”
She continued: “If anyone is concerned that a friend or family member is thinking of travelling to Syria it is very important that they tell us as soon as possible. Police and other agencies can offer support to help safeguard those who are vulnerable to radicalisers.
“The sooner we can intervene, the better chance we have of preventing people from becoming embroiled in the conflict and facing potential prosecution."
Anyone concerned about someone travelling to, or returning from, Syria or another conflict zone or is worried about someone showing signs of being radicalised should contact their local police on 101 or visit www.preventtragedies.co.uk to access relevant support and advice.
↧
Chief welcomes reopening of pub bombings inquest
Today the Birmingham Coroner has, after careful deliberation, decided to open the inquest into the deaths of the 21 people killed in the bombings of the Tavern in the Town and Mulberry Bush pubs in Birmingham City Centre in 1974.
Chief Constable Dave Thompson said: “I support the Coroner’s decision and West Midlands Police will assist the process now underway.
“The Birmingham Pub Bombings of 1974 are one of the most serious terrorist attacks in the UK. West Midlands Police not only failed to catch those responsible but caused a miscarriage of justice. I have said and reiterate again, it is the most serious failing in this force's history.
“It is almost 42 years since these events. I understand families of those who lost their lives are frustrated, disappointed and angry.
“Since 2012 and directly as a result of the campaign by families of those who died we have carefully reassessed the opportunities to bring the people responsible to justice. Despite an intense scrutiny we have not been able to see, at this time, a prospect of doing this. That has been an authentic and painstaking search for the truth.”
Mr Thompson added: “We have not nor will not close this investigation.
“West Midlands Police will support this enquiry as we have done through the recent hearings by the Coroner which determined whether the inquest should re-open. I hope the new inquest provides answers to families."
↧
Average Speed Enforcement (ASE) Cameras to be switched on
New ASE cameras will be installed and switched on in Birmingham and Solihull on July 18, it has been confirmed.
A plan to reintroduce camera speed enforcement on the roads of Birmingham and Solihull was formally agreed late last year and now the final preparations are complete, the cameras are ready to be installed after three years since obsolete wet film devices were last used locally.
Project partners from Birmingham City Council (BCC), Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC), West Midlands Police (WMP) and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner have decided to adopt a system using average speed cameras because historically compliance with speed limits is far better than with mobile or fixed-point cameras.
The new cameras detect vehicles through Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and calculate their average speed by measuring the time taken to travel between defined points of a known distance apart. A clear signing strategy is used to inform drivers that they are entering an average speed control zone.
Superintendent Kerry Blakeman, from West Midlands Police, said: “Our intention is for people to adhere to the speed limit. Those who exceed the limit will have to attend a speed awareness course where they will be educated about the dangers of speeding or face either an appearance at court or a fine and points on their licence.
We hope that the presence of these highly visible cameras will ensure that road users comply with the set limits on roads in Birmingham and Solihull.”
Latest figures show that in the years 2010-2014, there were 2,356 people killed or seriously injured in Birmingham and Solihull, an average of 471.2 per year.
Cllr Stewart Stacey, Cabinet Member for Transport and Roads at Birmingham City Council, said: “I want a clear message to be heard by the region’s motorists – I’m not Bob Geldof, I don’t want you to “give us your money”, I just want you to comply with the speed limits that are there to improve safety for everyone who uses the roads of Birmingham and Solihull.
“Most people will see no impact to their overall journey time as this is all about enforcing speed limits that already exist on the roads in question – all of which are routes with a significant record for accidents historically.
“It will only be the minority who continually exceed the speed limit and endanger others who will be caught by our adoption of this new modern technology.”
The cameras will be located across Birmingham and Solihull and will be operational for a term of five years. There will be an initial 21-month evaluation phase to assess the effectiveness of the cameras, equipment and the overall system. The initial pilot at these routes will do much to help inform the wider efforts to make the region’s roads as safe as they can possibly be.
Cllr Ted Richards, Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways, at Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, added: “This new digital technology will play a very important role in keeping the region’s roads safe. Thousands of people use the roads through Birmingham and Solihull every day and any work that local authorities can do to keep them safe is certainly positive.
“The cameras, and associated signs, are very noticeably; the only people being caught are those who choose to ignore them.”
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: “I promised that I would improve road safety and do all I could to reduce the number of injuries and deaths on our roads. That is why I am pleased that these safety cameras are being delivered. Speed is one of the biggest causes of deaths on the road and one of the biggest issues that local people raise with me on a daily basis.
“Birmingham and Solihull are installing the cameras and the police are supporting them by processing and enforcing the fines. This shows that we are on the side of the overwhelming majority of motorists who drive safely and sensibly.”
The routes of the digital average speed cameras are as follows:
Birmingham routes
A38 Bristol Road between Priory Road and Speedwell Road – 30mph
A456 Hagley Road between Portland Road and Lordswood Road – 30mph
A4540 New John Street between Lucas Circus and Hospital Street – 30mph
A34 Newtown Row Northbound between New John Street West and Newbury Road – 30mph
A45 Coventry Road between Berkley Road and Rowland Road/Steyning Road – 40mph
Solihull routes
B425 Lode Lane (between Henley Crescent and Moat Lane) – 30mph
B4114 Bradford Road / Chester road (in the vicinity of the junction) – 30mph
A3400 Stratford Road, Hockley Heath – 30mph
The proposed routes chosen have been based on the following criteria:
- There is a history of collisions and casualties at the camera site zone.
- Speed surveys indicate that speeding vehicles is an issue.
- There is no realistic and appropriate engineering solution that can be installed at the location to reduce collisions and vehicles exceeding the speed limit.
Speed cameras in the West Midlands – recent history
In April 2013 West Midlands Police [WMP] informed the public that speed cameras across the metropolitan area would be switched off until such time as a suitable digital solution could be found. WMP remain committed to road safety and has been targeting dangerous and, speeding motorists through the use of state-of-the-art mobile cameras.
A task group comprising officers from BCC, SMBC, WMP and AECOM have been scoping and developing the project phasing. The pilot is to consist of the installation, operation and maintenance of the digital safety cameras initially in Birmingham and Solihull.
↧
↧
Elderly woman robbed in her home after hour long ordeal
An elderly woman has been threatened with violence during an hour long ordeal after two men broke into her home and stole jewellery and a mobile phone.
The offenders struck in the early hours of Wednesday 21 December in Wake Green Road, Billesley.
The 77-year-old occupant of the address was asleep when the men broke in and threatened to cut her fingers off if she didn’t give them ‘the gold’.
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Tom Lyons said: “Fortunately the lady wasn’t injured, but she was left extremely shaken by her ordeal.
“The men broke in around 4am and spent some time searching the address.”
Shortly after 6am the woman’s debit card was used at the cashpoint on Haunch Lane. CCTV has captured the man who used the card and then walked off in the direction of Warstock Lane.
DC Lyons added: “I am hoping that someone may recognise the man from the CCTV and contact me urgently. There were other people using the cashpoint at the same time who might have vital information.”
DC Lyons can be contacted on 101 or information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
↧
CCTV released of men suspected of being involved in football disorder
West Midlands Police has released images of four men suspected of being involved in disorder following the derby game between Birmingham City and Aston Villa.
There were pockets of disorder in the Coventry Road area after the match at St Andrews on 30 October this year.
Officers are keen to speak to these men - who are believed to be Birmingham City fans - and have released CCTV images in an attempt to identify them.
PC Craig Harding, from the force’s football unit, said: "We would urge these men, or anyone who can identify them, to get in contact with us as soon as possible.
"The majority of supporters were well-behaved although the behaviour displayed by a small number was disappointing and unacceptable."
Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Harding by emailing contactus@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
↧
Police appeal after fatal road collision
Police are asking for witnesses to a collision in Birmingham earlier this month to contact them, after the man injured sadly died in hospital.
The collision took place at 7pm on Friday 2 December at Bordesley Green East near to the junction with Little Bromwich Road.
A black Mercedes car was in collision with pedestrian Milton Carr, aged 76. Mr Carr was taken to hospital, but died on 21 December.
Milton’s family have released a picture of him (above) and have said: “Milton was a loving partner, family member and friend. His nearest and dearest are devastated by his loss so ask that our privacy is respected at this sad time. We also ask that anyone with any information that may assist the investigation contact the police as soon as possible."
Sergeant Alan Hands from the force’s collision investigation unit, said: “The driver of the vehicle stopped at the scene and police officers were in attendance but we are still seeking anyone who may have witnessed the incident to get in touch with the Collision Investigation Unit on 101 – quoting log 2028 of 02/12/16.”
↧
Appeal launched after discovering a shotgun was fired into a bus
Police are appealing for witnesses after discovering a shotgun was fired into a bus in Palfrey, Walsall last month.
A man was travelling down Weston Street on the number 4 Diamond bus and talking on his phone when it seemingly exploded by his ear and shattered the bus window.
He was taken to hospital after the incident at 7.45pm on 22 November but was unable to account for what happened.
Surgery revealed metal fragments lodged in his head and ear, tests later confirmed the fragments were shotgun pellets.
Police are now investigating the matter and appealing for anyone who was on the bus at the time, saw anything suspicious on Weston Road or has any other information which may assist the enquiry to come forward.
PC Martin Williams said: “Although it was not immediately clear what had happened, this is an extremely serious incident, and we are committed to finding the person responsible.
“We are still piecing together the circumstances and would urge anyone with information to get in touch with my team. If you saw anything - regardless of how insignificant you think it may be - and have not yet spoken to us, I would ask you to give me a call."
Information can be passed directly to PC Williams by calling 101 or emailing martin.m.williams@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Please quote 20WS/232919V/16
↧
↧
WMPeople: DI Paul Talbot – offering support to crash victims’ families
It may only be a quick glance at a mobile phone – but a loss of concentration at the wheel can have disastrous consequences.
The dangers of being distracted while driving are unfortunately all too real for West Midlands Police’s Collision Investigation Unit.
Inspector Paul Talbot currently heads up the department – part of the Central Motorway Police Group – which investigates more than 270 crashes a year in the West Midlands and Staffordshire areas.
The 39-year-old has spent most of his career in traffic policing and is the man behind a specialist family liaison unit which offers support to distressed or grieving relatives.
A national road policing campaign has been taking place this week (May 20-26) to highlight the dangers of not being fully focussed on the road… the aftermath of which Paul and his team regularly encounter and investigate.
What is your current role with the collision investigation unit?
"I head up the department which investigates tragic collisions where unfortunately there have been life-changing, life-threatening or fatal injuries in the West Midlands and Staffordshire.
"The department consists of three teams of investigators, two teams of reconstruction experts and a dedicated family liaison unit.
"With support from CMPG, we set up the family liaison unit for the West Midlands area last autumn and it’s the first of its kind in the country. The team has one sergeant and eight PCs and we are hoping to develop a similar concept in Staffordshire.
“Previously a road policing officer would act as a family liaison officer – but this was challenging as the officers would have to fit it around their traditional road traffic duties.
"Families who have lost loved ones in road collisions are clearly distressed; they want answers and support.
"Having a dedicated family liaison team within collision investigation means we can deploy quickly and allow the officers the time to deliver a service and provide immediate answers to their questions.”
What kind of skills and training do officers need to be a Family Liaison Officer (FLO)?
"You need to be a good listener and be emotionally aware, but communication is the main skill as you interact with all types of society.
"There is a lot of emotion to confront and you need to stay calm to be able to offer the right kind of support.
"All our FLO's (pictured) undertake a week training course before they are deployed, and receive yearly refresher training.”
So is it almost a police counselling service?
"Part of a road policing FLO's role is to deal with the emotional issues in the aftermath of a serious road traffic collision.
"But the main role and focus of an FLO is as an investigator. We point bereaved families to immediate support and access to bereavement counselling through local charities. We also have our own victims quarterly support group."
We sometimes hear moans from drivers about how long motorways are closed for following serious crashes – but I guess crash reconstruction and the investigation can be complex?
“We understand road users may get frustrated when a road is closed for hours – but drivers need to realise that at the front of that queue a person may have lost their life or be seriously injured.
"We are fully committed to carrying out a thorough investigation, this allows us to piece together the cause of the collision and provide this information to either the coroner or criminal court.
“Bereaved families have a right to understand the cause of the collision and we must protect other road users from future risk of poor driving.
“These can be complex, harrowing and graphic scenes and we must provide dignity for those involved and protect members of the public from these sites which unfortunately leads to road closures."
How big a factor is being distracted behind the wheel in causing an accident?
“If you are not fully concentrating on the road – perhaps by reading while driving, eating at the wheel or looking at a mobile phone – the risk of a collision is much greater.
“Only recently we ran a police operation where more than 130 motorway drivers were caught using their mobile phone at the wheel in just two weeks.
“Between 2013 and 2015, a total of 7,713 drivers in the West Midlands were prosecuted for driving while using a mobile phone.
“It only takes a brief distraction to cause an accident which the consequences can be catastrophic.”
So using a mobile phone while driving is one of the biggest dangers?
“Statistics show that mobile phone use behind the wheel is one of the biggest killers on the road, pretty much on a par with drink driving. Drink driving is now seen, in most quarters, as socially unacceptable and very dangerous; the challenge for police, government and motoring groups is to get people to feel the same way about using phones at the wheel.
"There can be various reasons for a collision. But studies have shown driver reaction times when using a mobile phone are 30 per cent slower than someone who someone who is just above the drink drive limit; and 50 per cent slower than normal driving conditions
"Drivers using mobile phones are also four times more likely to be involved in a crash.
"A mobile phone causes a distraction, it can lead to a loss of concentration and it only takes a second to miss something which might cause an accident.
"It is not acceptable even during slower moving or queuing traffic to check a mobile phone for messages, text messaging or looking at social media.”
What is your message to drivers?
“This week has brought to the forefront the dangers of using a phone while driving; you never know when something might happen in front of you and cause an accident.
“Is a text message really worth answering if it leads to someone being seriously injured or killed? The safest option is leave your phone alone while at the wheel.
“There was a campaign run by a road safety group in New Zealand recently that struck a chord – it was all about looking after your passengers and caring for their safety rather than picking up a mobile phone while driving. It’s well worth a look if you’ve not seen it already:
How long have you been involved in traffic policing?
"For most of my career. I initially joined West Midlands Police in the mid-1990s and started as a PC based at Bloxwich.
"I was there for four years and then I joined the traffic department at Brownhills police.
“I spent nine years at Brownhills, where I learnt and gained experience in road policing, before I was promoted to a sergeant, where I worked with the passionate communities of the Palfrey area of Walsall.
“After that I spent some time as a custody sergeant at Bloxwich but it seems traffic policing is my calling and I came back into it a few years ago."
Why is traffic policing “your calling”?
“I am a qualified police motorcyclist and one of my hobbies is riding motorbikes, so that may explain some of my passion for road policing.
"But the true reason is I understand the affects and impact that a serious collision can have on all parties involved; families, friends, communities and offending driver, it is a traumatic experience for all.
"It is important that we provide a service to our communities, making every effort to prevent future incidents either through education and enforcement; or by investigating these collisions to the best of our ability to reduce the risk for all road users."
Are there many serious accidents involving motorbikes compared with car drivers?
In the West Midlands, there were 182 serious collision investigations in 2015; of which 69 were fatal.
"Almost 30 per cent of collisions involve motorbikes. Motorcyclists are vulnerable road users as are pedal cyclists and pedestrians as the level of protection to an accident is vastly reduced.
"It is important that we educate all road users to make everybody aware of the dangers. As a department we provide data to support design of vehicles and road layouts in an attempt to reduce risk and improve road safety.
"At the end of the day we all want the same thing; fewer accidents on the roads."
↧
WMPeople: Custody Sergeant Andrea Danks
Andrea Danks has the keys to one of the most contemporary lodgings in the West Midlands − but also has to deal with some of the most unruly guests.
She is one of 25 custody sergeants overseeing detainees around the clock at the force’s new custody facility in Oldbury which opened in March as part of a multi-million pound modernisation project. This week saw its ‘sister suite’ in Perry Barr open its cell doors to further expand the force’s custody capacity.
In Andrea’s three years as a Custody Sergeant she’s seen it all…quite literally at times with some suspects whiling away their detention time by stripping off and performing in front of cell CCTV!
The 60-bed facility is unlikely to rank highly on Trip Advisor but, as Andrea explains, it’s helping speed up the custody process and freeing officers up to patrol the streets.
Tell us about your role as a Custody Sergeant…sounds like you’re a police landlady!
Well I guess there are some similarities: I check-in our guests, show them to their ‘en-suite’ room, and provide refreshments. However, the en-suite element extends to a toilet in the corner of the room and the furnishings are sparse to say the least. We provide a mattress, a pillow and a blanket.
It’s a fantastically modern facility, one of the best in the country, but certainly not one I would advise people check in to!
As a Custody Sergeant I will deal with people answering bail, risk assess all the new arrivals, and look after the welfare of the detainees. That includes providing food and drink, medical attention, allowing them access to the shower room, facilitating religious requirements.
There is a cell buzzer detainees can press if they need anything.
Child detainees (under 18s) are kept separate from adults to ensure they are safe and a social worker is on site most days to help with those who might not have a parent able to attend.
How does it differ to the older custody blocks you’ve worked in?
The main difference is that it’s a purpose-built custody suite, not bolted onto the side of a police station.
Some of our old custody blocks are out-dated, inefficient and have limited space. The police cells in central Birmingham date back to Victorian times and in honesty haven’t changed too much in the last 100 years.
The force has recognised this needs to change and the new facilities − one here in Bromford Lane and another opening soon in Perry Barr − are a huge step forward.
We now have six booking in desks so can quickly process detainees, even if several come in at the same time, which means the arresting officers aren’t held up in a bottleneck and can quickly get back out on the streets.
Talk us through the facilities then Andrea…
The cells have cameras, anti-graffiti surfaces, reflective ceiling domes so we can see occupants at all times, plus low beds to prevent falls − an important consideration for many of the night-time detainees who arrive drunk. In fact, the whole building has been designed to prevent harm and keep people safe whilst in police custody.
There are also four accessible cells for disabled occupants and six windowed cells for high-risk detainees. They previously had to be monitored by officers sitting in the open doorway of their cell so again this improvement frees up officers for other duties.
The central hub has a control desk from where all areas of the suite can be monitored using cameras, intercoms and alarm panels on every wall.
The medical room, fingerprint room and intoximeter room all feature the latest equipment, plus there are 12 interview rooms with digital interview recording facilities. It all helps make the system quicker and more efficient.
And presumably it’s a more pleasant environment for you to work in?
Absolutely: the old blocks, at times, were a bit of an attack on the senses. In the smaller ones it didn’t take too many rowdy detainees, some banging on cells doors, rattling the metal cell drop-hatch, shouting or even singing, before it was a cacophony of noise. It was always a good idea to have some headache tablets on hand.
The noise was quite off putting when dealing with visitors and especially when booking in a non-English speaker via an interpreter on a phone.
It’s now much cleaner and smells a lot better…
We won’t ask you to expand on that Andrea! Some people have suggested the suite is too modern for detainees and that the conditions should be bleaker in order to deter offending?
You have to remember that people who arrive in the custody block have only been arrested − they have not been convicted of an offence. These are temporary holding facilities and it’s only right the block is safe, clean and fit for purpose − anything less and it can have a detrimental impact on detainees’ behaviour.
It’s modern and fitted with state-of-the-art equipment…but that doesn’t mean it’s luxurious! We provide shower rooms and refreshments but the meals wouldn’t be winning too many Masterchef awards!
One detainee who was here recently − and this is someone who’s served countless stints in prison − said he found the sheer scale of it quite intimidating.
What frame of mind are people in when they arrive − have you encountered any aggression?
Most PIC’s as we call them − Person in Custody − are pleasant enough, though understandably a bit grumpy at being caught. They accept the procedures they have to go through.
Night shifts are a little harder as more are drunk and can be quite difficult but by morning they have sobered up, or come down, and some are apologetic at their behaviour the previous night. We frequently come on shift to be confronted with naked men on CCTV camera…not too pleasant when you’re eating breakfast!
Not too many are violent, fortunately, although I have been assaulted twice. The last time was completely out of the blue: I was chatting quite nicely to the man and he suddenly shoved past me out the cell then turned and punched me once, knocking me straight to the floor. It hurt…a lot! It just goes to show you have to be on your guard at all times.
Any incidents stick in your mind during your three years as a Custody Sergeant?
I remember once trying to impersonate a chicken! I was struggling to explain the food options to one detainee who spoke no English…charades was my last hope of trying to get across ‘chicken korma’.
And I was once left wondering if a detainee was a vampire when he insisted his date of birth was 1380; it later dawned on me that he was using the Afghan calendar rather than our Gregorian one!
You’ve mentioned people you encounter who clearly have drug and/or alcohol issues. Is there anything you can do to tackle that in custody?
The new custody block affords more opportunities to work with partner agencies − like substance abuse support or mental health − and signpost people to groups who can help.
We will do a basic assessment of everyone that comes into custody to understand why they have offended and pass appropriate cases onto the Offender Management case workers who can look at ways to reduce the likelihood of them re-offending.
**West Midlands Police’s Oldbury custody facility cost almost £15-million but, due to its more cost-effective staffing model, will save around £1.3-million a year compared to previous custody arrangements. It was three years in the making, from planning approval through to finished product.**
Pictured: Perry Barr custody entrance
↧
Police appeal following fatal collision
Police are appealing for witnesses following a fatal road traffic collision today (Monday 26 December) in Birmingham.
A motorcyclist was travelling away from the Fort Dunlop Island on the Fort Parkway towards Castle Vale at around midday, when it is believed he was in collision with a barrier.
The 39-year-old rider, a man from Castle Bromwich, was taken to hospital but sadly died of his injuries.
His family have been told and are being supported by specially trained liaison officers. He is not being named at this stage.
The road was closed for some time following the collision.
PC Karl Davies from the force’s collision investigation unit, said: “The collision took place earlier today near to the Fort Dunlop Shopping Centre. The motorcyclist was riding together with another motorcyclist, when we believe he collided with a barrier. The rider was taken to hospital, but despite valiant efforts by medical staff, tragically he died a short time later. I am appealing for anyone who may have seen the collision to contact police on 101.”
PC Davies can also be contacted on FL_COLLISION_INVEST@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
↧
Erdington drug dealer jailed
A dealer has been jailed for five years after West Midlands Police rumbled a drugs den at his home in Birmingham.
Officers discovered a cannabis factory and cocaine after searching Jabari Collins’ address in Ryland Road, Erdington, on 12 January this year.
They swooped on the property after finding cannabis on another man who had been seen leaving the address.
A cannabis factory with around 21 plants was discovered in an upstairs room along with hydroponic equipment to assist the growth.
There was also 29.7 grams of cocaine and more than £11,500 in cash recovered from the property in the search.
Collins, aged 33, admitted cultivation of cannabis, but denied possession with intent to supply cocaine and possession of cash as criminal property. He was found guilty after a short trial and sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court last Wednesday (21 December).
Detective Inspector Darren Crutchley, from the Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU), said: “As soon as officers entered the address there was a strong smell of cannabis and equipment and cultivating equipment was found throughout the property.
“We have all seen the devastating consequences which drugs can have on our communities and we have no doubt this cannabis and cocaine would have been sold on.
“We are committed to tackling drugs and this case should act as a warning that we will catch those involved and pursue court action."
↧
↧
Police launch murder investigation after man is shot in West Bromwich
Police have launched a murder investigation after a man was shot in West Bromwich today (Tuesday 27 December).
Officers were called to Dartmouth Street at the junction with High Street in the town centre at 2.36pm following reports of a shooting.
A man in his thirties, who was a passenger in a stationary vehicle, suffered a gunshot wound to his head and was pronounced dead at the scene. A post mortem will take place in due course.
High Street at the junction with Dartmouth Street in West Bromwich has been cordoned off while forensic enquiries take place.
Detective Inspector Martin Slevin from Force CID said: "The investigation is at an early stage, my officers are currently carrying out enquiries at the scene and house to house and CCTV. There will also be extra reassurance patrols in the local area. I would appeal for anyone who was in West Bromwich and who saw what happened or who has information to contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers confidentially on 0800 555 111."
↧
‘Magpie’ teams swoop to return stolen goods
Hundreds of stolen goods have been seized and returned to their rightful owners due to the success of an on-going West Midlands Police operation.
Mobile phones, laptops, jewellery and power tools are part of a £100,000 haul of items recovered in Wolverhampton in just over 18 months.
More than 400 items have been recaptured across the city through Operation Magpie − a dedicated police initiative to trace and return stolen goods.
The majority of this property - around 75 per cent - has been returned to their rightful owners using serial numbers and public viewing events; while court action has also been taken against those caught in possession of stolen items.
DC Gary Thompson has been co-ordinating the operation in Wolverhampton since April 2015 and built up close working relationships with businesses to assist the fight against crime.
He is able to share details of stolen goods which could be offered for sale while shops and retailers can flag up any concerns around property they’re being offered for sale.
And it’s not just the gathering of intelligence on the ground as officers also monitor online auction and classified ad sites to identify any stolen items.
Amongst the goods recovered by officers were a haul of more than 100 items including lawnmowers, power tools and fishing tackle swiped during raids across two properties in Gordon Place, Millfields, and Prince Charles Road, Bradley, in August 2015.
Robert Ashfield and Daniel Rowton - who were known to each other - were both charged and admitted offences of handling stolen goods at Wolverhampton Crown Court.
Ashfield, aged 48, of Gordon Place, was given a 10-month jail term, suspended for two years, and ordered to carry out 140 hours of unpaid work.
Rowton, 21, of Prince Charles Road, received a five-month suspended prison term and told to complete 80 hours of unpaid work.
West Midlands Police runs Operation Magpie teams across the region in the fight against crime.
The success of the initiative in Wolverhampton has now seen it recognised as good practice by other police forces.
DC Thompson said: "We have had some real success in managing to track down stolen property and then return it to the rightful owner.
"These are expensive goods which can cost hundreds of pounds to replace and can sometimes be items which have real sentimental value such as jewellery.
"Developing a strong link with businesses in the area has been a massive benefit in helping us to tackle the issue.
"I have even been approached by another force to advise them on setting up their own version of Operation Magpie and they spent time in Wolverhampton seeing how it works."
DC Thompson added: "We actively target handlers of stolen goods to break the chain of burglaries and robberies. Thieves commit such crimes if there are people out there who are happy to receive stolen property, some of which is the sold on.
"We would encourage people to make sure their property is secure and also registered on the Immobilise Property Register. This can help identify items which are stolen and ensure they can be returned once recovered."
Updates around Operation Magpie are regularly provided through the @WolvesCID twitter account using #opmagpie.
↧
Police appeal to trace missing man
Police are searching for a Birmingham man who has not been seen since last week.
Terance Harris from Nechells, has not been seen since Thursday afternoon (22 December) by his neighbour.
Mr Harris is described as black, 5ft 10ins tall and has short white hair with a full beard.
The 51-year-old suffers from schizophrenia and it is believed he does not have his medication with him.
PC Asim Abbasi from the Locate Team said: “We need to urgently check Mr Harris is safe and well. He has never been reported missing before and so this is out of character.”
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to call the Locate Team on 101.
↧