Five suspected burglars have been arrested in a series of dawn raids across Wolverhampton this morning (Monday 20 March).
Officers from West Midlands and Staffordshire Police joined forces to simultaneously swoop on the gang, believed to be responsible for 70 crimes across both counties.
When the crime spree started in June last year detectives worked quickly to use CCTV footage, forensic evidence and other information to link the offences.
In most of the crimes thieves would break into the factories and stores via the roof. Once inside safes were plundered. Golf courses and scrap metal dealers have also fallen victim to the gang.
Around £500,000 is believed to have been stolen from businesses as far afield as Dudley, Walsall, Wolverhampton and Wombourne.
Forty officers from both forces were involved in the sting which is designed to combat a rise in burglary rates.
Detective Inspector Clair Langley, from Staffordshire Police led the operation. She said: "These raids are the result of a lot of hard work. Officers from both forces have worked tirelessly to piece together all of the facts.
"The crimes have had a devastating impact on the staff who work at the targeted businesses. They have taken it extremely personally, particularly the volunteers at the charity shops which were raided.
"Days of valuable trade have been lost and charity funds which should be supporting the needy have now been diverted into repairing the thousands of pounds worth of damage caused.
The five men arrested are being held on suspicion of conspiracy to burgle. They include a 22-year-old from Heath Town; 26-year-old from Bilston; 26-year-old from Low Hill; 47-year-old from Willenhall; and a 29-year-old man from Low Hill.
Despite record reductions over the past 15 years, burglary rates across the West Midlands have been slowly rising since June 2016.
The latest raids are just part of the fightback which includes the use of capture houses − homes taken over by police and fitted with tiny CCTV cameras and infrared sensors designed to catch criminals in the act.
↧
WATCH: Five arrested in dawn burglary swoop
↧
Thousands of pounds worth of goggles stolen from lorry in Wednesfield
Police are appealing for information after nearly three-quarters of a million pounds worth of Zoggs swimming goggles were stolen from a freight yard in Wednesfield.
Three thieves broke into a depot on Birmingham Road, Oldbury at 11.40pm on 10 March and stole a DPDS Mercedes tractor cab.
Late on Monday 13 March, four men were spotted on CCTV climbing over a gate into RJ Haulage on Neachells Lane, Wednesfield.
The men unattached a trailer from a tractor cab, forced opened the gates and used the stolen DPDS cab to drive off with the trailer in the early hours of Sunday.
The trailer contained 40,000 pairs of Zoggs swimming goggles worth approximately £700,000.
Can anybody offer any information on who was involved in the theft?
Do you know where the goods were taken initially, where they are being stored now or who the haul has been sold on to?
Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Mick Walley by emailing m.walley@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk or by calling West Midlands Police on 101.
Alternatively information can be passed on to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 1111. Please quote crime number 20WV/52061Q/17
↧
↧
Man arrested following savage attack on guard
West Midlands Police has arrested a man on suspicion of attempted murder in connection with the vicious beating of a 73-year-old security guard at a Dudley factory.
The guard was attacked after challenging a man found near an office at Stoke Forgings, a metal factory in Vine Street, at around 1pm on Sunday (19 March).
The man was hit numerous times during a prolonged attack lasting around 15 minutes – and police believe he was also beaten with a shovel.
A 44-year-old man, of no fixed address, was arrested at around 1am this morning (Tuesday 21 March) in the Holy Hall area of Dudley and is currently in police custody helping detectives with their enquiries.
Detective Inspector Colin Mattinson from Force CID said: “The security guard was left with serious head injuries and remains in a critical condition in hospital.
“Enquiries are on-going and I would ask anyone who saw anything in the Vine Street area on Sunday or anyone who has knowledge of this attack to call us as soon as possible on 101 or call Crimestoppers confidentially on 0800 555 111."
↧
Police appeal over Witton distraction burglaries
Police are appealing for help in identifying a white man who is involved in a series of distraction burglaries across Great Barr and Witton.
The man, who claims to be a handy man, carries tools and has knocked on doors in the area purporting to be servicing disability ramps and rails.
On Tuesday 7 March he pretended to carry out work outside homes in Brookvale Road and Walsall Road and managed to enter the properties and make off with wallets and purses.
A few days later on Friday 10 March he was in Birkenshaw Road and again managed to distract the home owner before stealing cash.
The man is described as aged around 40 – 50 and is approximately 5ft 8ins – 5ft 10ins tall with greying short brown hair.
Investigation officer PC Nicholas McCullogh said: “This man is preying on vulnerable, elderly members of the community. He is posing as a maintenance man in order to gain the victims’ trust and gain access to their homes in order to steal from them.
We would like to remind people that they should request identification from people who come to their house to do work, and if you are still suspicious then they should contact the company that they claim to be from in order to seek clarification.”
It is believed he is travelling around in a grey BMW 3 series car.
Anyone with information is asked to call PC Nicholas McCullogh on 101 ext 845 6116 quoting 20BW/47998A/17 or 20BW/48059U/17.
↧
Coventry man jailed for terror funding
A Coventry engineer has today (Tuesday 21 March) been jailed for four years and eight months for sending money to fund his brother who is currently fighting in Syria with Daesh.
Nadeem Hussain, aged 36 from Threadneedle Street, Coventry, was sentenced at Kingston Crown Court after he previously admitted three counts of being concerned in arrangements to make money available for the purposes of terrorism.
Hussain pleaded guilty to sending £4,000 to fund his brother Naweed Hussain, who is believed to have joined Daesh after travelling to the conflict zone in June 2015.
The cash was sent via a money transfer bureaus in Coventry over a period of three days in April 2016.
Nadeem Hussain was originally arrested and bailed by officers from the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit in January 2016 following searches by officers at a number of addresses in Coventry. The searches were in connection with his brother’s departure.
Hussain was further detained on suspicion of a separate criminal matter in April 2016. As a result his phone was seized by officers, who found evidence of financial transactions to his sibling. These included screenshots of post-it notes showing receipts of the money transfers and names of people abroad to transfer the money to.
Other images seized from phones include pictures of what are believed to be Naweed Hussain engaged with Daesh fighters in the conflict zone and images relating to Islamic State ideology.
Assistant Chief Constable Marcus Beale, who leads on counter-terrorism for the West Midlands, said: "Disrupting terrorist funding is an important part of our investigations. Sending money to those actively engaged in terrorism helps fund their activities and exacerbates the threat. We will continue to act on any intelligence and disrupt the flow of money to conflict zones.
“Anyone who knows of someone who may be potentially vulnerable to being drawn into terrorist-related activity, including travelling abroad to conflict zones should contact local police for advice and support on 101. “
Further information is available on the national Prevent Tragedies website: www.preventtragedies.co.uk.
If you see or hear something that you are concerned could be terrorist related, call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.
↧
↧
Family pay tribute to Storm Doris victim Tahnie
A grieving family have today paid tribute to a ’much-loved’ daughter and fiancee who died after being struck by flying debris during Storm Doris.
Tahnie Martin was tragically killed after being hit by a falling piece of wooden roofing in Dudley Street, Wolverhampton city centre, last month.
Relatives of the 29 year-old from Stafford, who worked at the University of Wolverhampton, have released a statement in which they say it’s hard to imagine a future without her.
But they have also expressed gratitude to the emergency services who did their best to help Tahnie .
It reads: "Our beloved Tahnie was cruelly taken away from us just weeks ago. Nothing will ever fill the massive hole her departure has left.
"It’s been a desperate period for us, and at this time is impossible for us to imagine a future with any happiness without her.
"We have met a number of people who were present on the day when Tahnie tragically died; and we would like to extend our special thanks to those who tried to help her.
"This includes the police, fire service and medical teams, staff from the local Starbucks and Marks & Spencer stores and the local hot dog retailer. We have received great support from our police Family Liaison Officer who has been there for us throughout.
"We would like to thank the many people who have contacted us during this difficult period, especially Tahnie ’s close family, friends and colleagues from the university.
"There have been so many people who have touched us with their numerous messages of sympathy and support, tributes and flowers.
"We take great comfort from knowing that Tahnie was loved by many. This remains an extremely difficult and emotional period for the family, so thank-you to the media for continuing to respect our privacy."
The investigation to establish the circumstances of her death is now being led by the City of Wolverhampton Council, supported by West Midlands Police and the Health & Safety Executive.
↧
Man charged with attempted murder after Dudley factory attack
A man has been charged with attempted murder after a security guard was seriously injured at a Dudley factory.
Lee Parsons is to appear before Dudley Magistrates Court this morning (Wednesday 22 March) in connection with the attack on the 73-year-old guard at Stoke Forgings, Vine Street, on Sunday.
The 44-year-old, of no fixed address, also faces an allegation of burglary.
↧
Men charged with conspiracy to burgle
Four men will appear before Cannock Magistrates this morning (Wednesday 22 March) charged with conspiracy to burgle.
The charges follow a coordinated sting between West Midlands and Staffordshire Police on a Wolverhampton gang suspected of targeting dozens of businesses across the two counties.
They include: Car salesman Royston Hallard, 22, of Tithe Croft, Heath Town; unemployed Lee Fletcher, 26, of Moseley Road, Bilston; Restaurateur Mark Pursall, 27 of Foster Road, Low Hill; and unemployed Christopher Rock, aged 37, of Salop Street, Bilston.
Two other men - aged 47 from Willenhall and 29 from Low Hill - were also arrested as part of the investigation. They have been released on police bail while inquiries continue.
↧
UPDATED: Chewing gum traps killer after 36 years
A man who killed his ex-partner before hiding her body in a cupboard has been convicted of her death 36 years later after his DNA was discovered on chewing gum.
Osmond Bell, aged 60 from Regent Road, Handsworth, was today convicted of the manslaughter of Nova Welsh in July 1981, following a five week trial at Birmingham Crown Court. He was this afternoon jailed for 12 years.
Bell was arrested after police re-opened the case and used current DNA techniques to test evidence retrieved from the original murder scene; this included a piece of chewing gum that had been used to secure the cupboard door where her body was hidden.
Osmond Bell
Bell, who was employed as a handyman, was arrested on suspicion of murder in September 2014, after detectives from the force’s cold case review team re-opened the case three years earlier.
The body of Nova, a 24-year-old mother of two, had been found in a utility cupboard in a communal area at flats where she lived in Lighthorne Avenue, Ladywood in 1981.
Nova, a part-time cleaner, who had recently split from Bell before her death, had been missing three weeks when her body was discovered.
A post mortem revealed she died from pressure to the neck.
Bell was originally arrested following Nova’s death in 1981, but was later released following insufficient evidence.
Detectives on the original inquiry, had however forensically preserved chewing gum used to secure the utility cupboard door shut, where Nova’s body had been hidden. They also had an anonymous letter which had been sent to a friend of Nova implicating another man in her disappearance.
When the case was reviewed by detectives in 2011, the chewing gum and letter seal were sent for DNA screening, which showed both were from the same person.
Top, Cupboard; Bottom l-r, Chewing gum, envelope
Following a further review, Bell was arrested and questioned and a sample of his saliva was taken, which was found to match both items of evidence captured from the original investigation
Bell was eventually charged with Nova’s murder, more than three decades after she was killed.
The court heard that Nova, who at the time had two sons aged just two and six, told friends she had asked Bell to leave the family home following an abusive relationship and had also met someone new. Bell, who still saw his children however, was jealous that Nova had met someone else and wanted to move back.
Nova was last seen alive in July 1981. She had taken the children to stay with Bell and had gone dancing with her new partner and friends. She was dropped home around 2am.
Nova Welsh
The next morning and afternoon, neighbours describe hearing Nova crying and quarrelling with someone. The last sighting of Nova was around 6pm on Sunday 26 July by a neighbour who said Nova appeared upset. In the early hours of the next morning, residents describe hearing loud noises and the sound of footsteps shuffling as if something was being carried.
Over the next few days friends tried to contact Nova, and she was eventually reported missing to police by her neighbour on Sunday 9 August.
Bell, who hadn’t reported her missing himself, told police he thought she had either gone off with her new boyfriend or to visit family in America.
An anonymous handwritten note sent to Nova’s friend claimed to have seen Nova fighting with a man in her kitchen window, suggesting her new boyfriend as a suspect. The letter is now known to have been sent by Bell.
On 18 August, routine maintenance work at the flats was taking place, when residents reported a bad smell. While looking in a utility cupboard they discovered Nova’s body covered by a blanket and papers.
Although the door appeared intact, when examined it was found it had been forced and the lock had been re-secured using gum.
Although Bell was arrested, no one was ever charged with Nova’s murder.
Detective Inspector Justin Spanner, senior investigating officers, said: “Today has finally brought justice for Nova Welsh and her family. When Nova went missing it was 1981; the royal wedding between Prince Charles and Lady Diana had recently taken place and DNA procedures did not exist.
“Bell killed Nova, hid her body and then deliberately deceived police and her family by claiming she had voluntarily left and then further deceived them by writing and sending a letter suggesting someone else was responsible for her disappearance.
“This case shows that we will always strive to win justice for victims. With the continuing advances in DNA we are able to routinely re-open cases, re-examine evidence and push for successful prosecutions.
“We will never give up on unsolved crimes, cases remain open and new information and opportunities when they arise will always be looked at.
“I hope Nova’s family can now find some peace.”
Lorna Edmond, Nova’s best friend, said: “Nova was a lovely person always happy and smiling. She was a devoted mother who loved her two boys very much.
“I reported Nova missing as I hadn't seen her for a while which was unusual. It came as a terrible shock to find out what had happened to her.
“I often think about the old times and the things we use to do.
“I still miss Nova and only hope that her family can now find some peace. Nova can rest in peace knowing that justice has been done. I will never forget her. Till we meet again Nova.
“Love your friend Lorna.”
Nova’s mum, Lorna Welsh, said: “Finally after 36 long years, Nova can rest in peace. The family can now have closure knowing the person who took Nova's life has been brought to Justice. I would sincelely like to thank everyone involved in bringing this case to court.”
Osmond Bell will be sentenced later today.
↧
↧
WANTED: Police post 16 burglary suspects’ details
As police step up their blitz on burglars, officers are asking people to help in their hunt for 16 men wanted in connection with dozens of crimes across the West Midlands.
Homes in Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry and Solihull have all been targeted with thousands of pounds worth of property stolen.
Temporary Chief Superintendent Bas Javid is leading the crackdown. He said: “Burglary is one of those crimes which has a devastating and long-lasting impact on victims.
“Our officers work very hard scrutinising witness statements, scouring hours of CCTV and lifting the minutest of forensic evidence to identify offenders.
“As always, our success is closely linked to the level of support local people afford officers. Their tip-offs are invaluable in helping us identify the whereabouts of suspects. We have
solved countless crimes thanks to law abiding locals who want to be safe and want to play their part.
“It’s also not too late for the 16 men whose details we’ve released to play their part. They can pick up the phone at any time and calls us or walk into any police station.
“Until they do that, they will be constantly looking over their shoulder and wondering if that knock on their door is officers ready to arrest them, because we will catch up with them.”
Follow this link to view the gallery.
The details of the men have been previously published on the force’s Wanted gallery. The reminder is one small part of the latest crackdown on burglars following a rise in crime.
Despite record reductions over the past 15 years, burglary rates across the West Midlands have been slowly rising since June 2016. This rise is higher in Birmingham, Coventry, Solihull and Walsall.
The West Midlands position mirrors a national rise in crime.
Between April 2016 and March 2017 officers investigated 13,871 burglaries compared to 11,580 over the same period the year before. This is a rise of 2,291.
Follow this link for free home security advice.
↧
Police reassure communities of the West Midlands following London atrocity
Following the terrible incidents in London yesterday, our thoughts are with those who have been affected.
Overnight our colleagues from the Metropolitan Police have searched a number of addresses across the country and have made a number of arrests in connection with the incident, including addresses in Birmingham.
The arrests and searches were intelligence led and there was no immediate risk to public safety. We would like to reassure our communities that we have extra officers out on patrol throughout the next few days to offer reassurance and address any concerns you may have. We 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.
Assistant Chief Constable Marcus Beale, who leads on counter terrorism for the force, 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, along with our partners, are working around the clock to keep Birmingham and our other cities as safe as can be."
↧
Five arrested – including boy (13) – over stun-gun car-jacking
Five car-jacking suspects – including a 13-year-old boy – have been arrested after West Midlands Police traced a stolen car to a Birmingham back-street.
Police call handlers were alerted to a robbery in Burford Close, Solihull, at 7.50pm on Tuesday (March 21) and reports that a group of teenagers had driven off in the victim’s VW Sirocco.
Response officers flooded the area and tracked the car, along with a Vauxhall Vectra believed to have been used by the offenders, to Broadstone Road where four male youths and a woman were arrested.
A search of the area also uncovered a stun-gun type device suspected of being used during the car-jacking, plus the victim’s car keys and mobile phone.
Two boys aged 16, a 17-year-old and a 13-year-old – all from Birmingham – plus a 30-year-old woman from Alum Rock were all arrested on suspicion of robbery.
West Midlands Police Sergeant Carl Grinnell, said: “The man was threatened for his car keys and suffered a minor burn to his hand after being shocked with a stun gun type device.
“Officers did brilliantly to quickly pick up the movements of his VW Sirocco and the Vectra it was in convoy with. They had all five people in custody less than 30 minutes after the initial 999 call and recovered vital evidence.
“It’s disturbing one of the suspects we’ve arrested is just 13-years-old; it follows the charging of two other boys aged 14 recently for similar car robberies.
“There is a suspicion young teenage boys are being coerced into taking part in these types of offences. I would strongly urge anyone asked to participate in such offences to refuse: these teenagers are jeopardising their entire futures by getting involved and may well find themselves spending time in youth offending institutes.”
All five have been bailed until a date in May with strict conditions including 5pm to 7am curfews, regular reporting to police stations and orders to live and sleep at specified addresses. They are also banned from associating with each other.
↧
Thieves jailed as WMP aims to drive down burglary rates
Two men have been jailed over break-ins at family homes as West Midlands Police’s push to drive down burglary rates gathers speed.
Paul Gloster (24) and 18-year-old Jack Simper were handed prison sentences for separate raids on properties in Castle Bromwich and Dorridge, respectively.
Simper (pic left) is believed to be one of a group of thieves who struck at a Manor Road property in the early hours of 3 February, prising wooden panels from a garage door before making off with a VW Tiguan, a Triumph motorbike and two pedal cycles.
However, forensic examination of the panels returned a DNA match to Simper and he was arrested from his home in Hazeldene Road, Sheldon, a week later.
Gloster was arrested after security camera footage showed him running from a house in Windleaves Road on 30 January carrying a Dyson vacuum cleaner – followed by two other men also carrying items swiped from the property.
Images of the offenders were circulated on police briefing systems and local officers identified Gloster, from Bordesley Green East, among those involved.
Both men admitted burglary and at Birmingham Crown Court on 13 March Simper was handed a 20-month sentence with Gloster jailed for 27 months at the same court the following day.
Another man remains on remand in prison over the Castle Bromwich break-in awaiting trial on other criminal matters.
Burglar rates have increased recently in parts of the West Midlands – in line with the national trend – having previously dropped to record lows.
Criminals are focusing on homes with poor security to steal jewellery, phones and tablet computers − all of which are easy to sell on – or cash.
West Midlands Police has launched a campaign to tackle the issue – and on Monday (March 20) joined forces with Staffordshire officers during early morning raids at the homes of suspected burglars in the Black Country.
Five people were arrested during the operation are questioned over a series of break-ins at businesses and charity shops where property collectively valued at £500,000 was stolen.
And the force is expanding its portfolio of ‘capture houses’ – properties that are kitted out with hidden police cameras – to snare increasing numbers of unsuspecting burglars.
↧
↧
Alana (8) helps raise police spirits with chocolate delivery
A schoolgirl brought tears to the eyes of police in Sandwell when she presented officers with chocolates bought with her spending money – in the hope they’d raise spirits after the Westminster terror attack.
Young Alana, a pupil at St James CE Primary school in Oldbury, paid officers a visit at West Bromwich police station this morning where she handed over the tub of Quality Street.
Alana is pictured with Chief Superintendent Richard Baker
The eight-year-old – who bought the chocolates with her weekly spends – told the team she wanted to “cheer them up” and say sorry for the loss of police family member PC Keith Palmer.
Inspector Phil Mees, said: “It was such a lovely gesture…there was hardly a dry eye in the house. Obviously the mood was very sombre in the station this morning but Alana’s visit really lifted everyone.
“Officers never know what they’ll face when they clock on for each shift – and never was that more evident than in London yesterday. It’s lovely to know the efforts of our officers are appreciated. Thank-you, Alana.”
Big-hearted Alana was given a guided tour of the police station, met Sandwell Police Commander Rich Baker and left with a few police goodies like a T-shirt, cap badges and key-rings.
Officers in other parts of West Midlands Police have also been touched by kind gestures from members of the public.
In Dudley, a lady delivered boxes of cakes to officers, a boy handed over chocolates at Sutton Coldfield police station and a bouquet of flowers were left at Bloxwich police station in respect of PC Palmer.
↧
Extra time to quiz terror suspects
Magistrates have granted police extra time to question five men arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Detectives from the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit appeared before London’s Westminster Magistrates Court via video link on Saturday (27 August) to submit their request for a warrant of further detention.
The men aged 18, 24, 28, 32 and 37 were arrested in Stoke and Birmingham on Friday as part of an intelligence led policing operation. Searches at addresses across Staffordshire and the West Midlands continue.
The seven day extension means that detectives can now hold the five until the morning of Friday 2 September.
Chief Superintendent Sue Southern, from West Midlands Police, said: "The arrests of the five men were intelligence led and our investigation continues at full pace."
Anyone with information about possible terrorist activity should call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline: 0800 789 321 or dial 999 in an emergency.
↧
Police officer’s pilgrimage to remember fallen Somme colleague
A West Midlands Police officer has travelled 700 miles to remember a fallen colleague he’s never met… one of the bravest of the brave killed at the Somme.
Wolverhampton Police PC Henry George Kidd signed up with the First Battalion Grenadier Guards at the outbreak of World War I.
He was cut down by machine gun fire on 16 September 1916 during a Somme offensive and later succumbed to his wounds in a field hospital.
Modern day Wolverhampton Police Sergeant Andy Padmore paid his respects on Friday (16 Sept) by laying a West Midlands Police wreath at the grave in La Neuville British cemetery, near Corbie, to mark the centenary of Guardsman Kidd’s death.
Sgt Padmore is a member of the Wolverhampton Police Military History Group which strives to honour former colleagues who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country.
In researching his police and military history he tracked down PC Kidd’s great niece Janet Frusher, who lives in Peterborough, and will also be laying a wreath on her behalf during the trip.
The group − comprised of serving and retired officers who’ve all worked in Wolverhampton − has undertaken pilgrimages for the past 15 years to places where ex-Wolverhampton bobbies have been killed in action.
Sgt Padmore explained: “There is a memorial at Wolverhampton police station featuring the names of former local police officers killed in conflict. I used to walk past it every day… but one day I decided to do a bit of research into each officer and the results were amazing.
“On the back of that the group decided they wanted to visit the graves of as many of the fallen as we could to pay our respects; it’s been a fascinating journey taking the group to a number of sites from Ypres to Normandy.
“In May this year the group undertook a cycling trip along the D-Day beaches, culminating at Ranville cemetery to pay respects to Wolverhampton Police officer Arthur Ward who lost his life on 6 June 1944.
“These guys were the bravest of the brave, they served their local community as police officers and when the call came signed up for King and Country."
Sgt Padmore tracked down Janet through a photo of Henry Kidd − known to his family as Harry − she posted on the BBC remembrance website in 2008.
Janet added: “Andy sent an email enquiring if I was a relative and seeking approval to visit my Great Uncle’s grave. I was thrilled to hear of their visit and wholeheartedly approved.
“I put great uncle Harry’s name on the remembrance website because he was held in such affection by my grandma and mum − but also because l hoped another relative might see it and respond. He was married and had a son but my grandma’s family eventually lost touch with them.
“I’m delighted it helped Andy get in contact with me and touched that he is going to such trouble to pay his respects at Harry’s resting place."
Harry Kidd − who was aged 27 at the time of his death and originally from Thetford in Norfolk − was a Constable in Wolverhampton Borough Police. He lived with his wife in a town house in Lower Vauxhall, Wolverhampton.
↧
Life jail for man who murdered ‘uncle figure’ – new DNA technique helps convict killer
A man who stabbed his “uncle” to death on his own doorstep has been jailed for almost 30 years after West Midlands Police used a ground-breaking DNA technique to prove he was the killer.
Paul Cooke (pictured) repeatedly stabbed 64-year-old Ronald Smith – a man he claimed to view “like an uncle” – at his West Bromwich home on 6 May last year the day after being released from prison.
Callous Cooke swiped £600 in cash from the Cottage Walk address and locked the door with a key as he made off in the hope the body would lie undetected.
A neighbour raised the alarm on June 2, almost four weeks later, and when police managed to gain entry through an unlocked window officers found Mr Smith dead at the foot of his stairs.
A post mortem examination revealed he’d suffered more than 20 stab wounds, including fatal injuries below his left ear and throat.
Forensics experts found cellular material – most likely skin cells – beneath the victim’s fingernails but upon examination discovered the sample to be a mixed DNA profile from three people, including Mr Smith himself.
However, using an innovative DNA technique called LiRA, West Midlands Police was able to show the chances of Cooke’s DNA not making up part of the profile were around a billion to one.
Following the DNA hit Cooke was produced from prison on October 5 – having been arrested for the latest in a long line of burglary offences – and quizzed over the murder.
The 34-year-old told detectives in interview “I could never hurt Ronnie”, describing him as an avuncular figure and that he regularly visited his home to drink and play cards.
But on day one of his trial (Mon 19 Sept) he changed his plea to guilty and was told he will spend at least the next 28-and-a-half years behind bars.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Ian Iliffe, said: “Mr Smith (pic left) was a private man…he suffered a burglary in 2014 when a sizeable sum of cash was stolen. Cooke would have known that and he went to his home with the intention to search the house for money.
“We believe it’s the first time LiRA has been used to help convict a murderer…it has previously been used in sexual offences to trap rapists.
“The technique helps us better understand the strength of evidence in cases involving complex DNA samples. Before we would only have been able to say ‘we believe Cooke’s DNA was present’ but not quantify the statistical likelihood.
“But here we could show that the chance of Cooke’s DNA not forming part of the mixed profile was around a billion to one. And in the face of such damning DNA evidence he chose to change his plea and admit the killing at the last minute.”
Cooke carried out the attack at around 6.30pm on May 6; the following day he went on a clothes shopping spree and gave cash to a family member after boasting he’d “done a yard” – slang for committing a burglary.
Det Insp Iliffe stressed that despite the conviction the murder case remains open as his team knows another offender was involved in the attack.
He added: “This investigation is still live: we know another offender was present at the time and I urge anyone with information that could help us identify this person to come forward.
“Innocent people can be eliminated from our enquiries through forensic evidence found at the scene – and indeed my officers have already spoken to and ruled out almost 250 people. Someone out there knows who else was involved and I would ask them to look into their conscience and provide a name.
“Cooke has been told he will spend almost 30 years behind bars…but he should not be serving this sentence alone.
“The search for the second person continues and I would urge anyone who suspects someone they know was involved in this killing to call West Midlands Police. Mr Smith’s family will not have complete closure until that person is found.”
Anyone with information is urged to call Det Insp Iliffe in the force’s Investigation Review Team on the 101 number, or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
↧
↧
Banned driver jailed for high-speed road rampage
A banned driver “out for a laugh” with pals on his birthday went on a high-speed 20-minute road rampage – but he’s now been jailed after West Midlands Police cut short his joyride.
Tony Berrill topped 90mph, ran red lights and performed dangerous overtaking manoeuvres as he careered through Coventry streets in a Seat Leon on 5 October last year.
At one stage West Midlands Police patrol officers were forced to abandon their pursuit for fear the 24-year-old’s driving could cause a serious collision.
However, Berrill’s movements were monitored by a police helicopter and, when he ditched the car in Tiverton Road and fled, an air observer directed officers on the ground to make an arrest in Sewall Highway.
In police interview he claimed to have been a rear seat passenger – but later admitted dangerous driving and driving while disqualified as the evidence against him stacked up.
And at Coventry Crown Court on Thursday (23 March) Berrill, of no fixed address, was jailed for 12 months and banned from the roads for three-and-a-half years. He will also be required to take an extended re-test in order to get his licence back.
CMPG Roads Policing officer Mitch Darby, said: “It’s some of the worst driving I’ve ever seen: he was driving at speeds approaching 70 miles per hour in 30-zones, the wrong way around roundabouts, and into oncoming traffic on dual carriageways.
“He was banned from driving but showed a complete disregard for the disqualification, plus the safety of his passengers and other road users.
“Throughout his police interview, Berrill was aggressive, belligerent and showed no remorse. He told us he was ‘out for a laugh’ on his birthday – his driving was no laughing matter, though, and could have resulted in tragic consequences.
“A prison sentence is inevitable for anyone prepared to put innocent members of the public in danger by driving in this manner.”
Officers abandoned their pursuit on Ansty Road heading into Coventry as Berrill drove the Leon on the wrong side of the carriageway.
Berrill had been disqualified from driving for 18 months at Coventry Magistrates Court on 12 October 2015 for failing to provide a breath specimen.
↧
Hundreds of motorists caught during seatbelt campaign
More than 230 motorists were fined for not wearing their seatbelt during a week-long police crackdown across the West Midlands.
Officers handed out £100 fines and warned about the dangers of not belting up as part of an awareness campaign between 13-19 March.
Excuses included a driver claiming they didn’t believe a seatbelt was required while travelling at 25mph or under.
A total of 236 motorists were fined across the West Midlands including parents who had young children in their vehicle.
The mother of a 12-year-old boy - who died in a car crash while not wearing a seatbelt - joined officers at the roadside to warn drivers of the potentially fatal consequences of not belting up.
Inspector Andy Bentley from Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG) - which is made up of officers from West Midlands, Staffordshire and West Mercia police forces - said: “It has been law to wear a seatbelt for over 30 years and it is disappointing to see people are still ignoring this.
“There is no excuse for not belting up; it only takes a few seconds and can prove the difference in saving a life.
“We were still seeing parents who were not making sure their children were safely secured in vehicles and putting them at risk of serious harm.
“The campaign may be over but we will continue to monitor motorways and routes across the Midlands to catch those not wearing a seatbelt."
To raise awareness of the importance of wearing a seatbelt, Special Constable Clive Broadhurst visits school across the region to give presentations on road safety.
This has seen him give advice to more than 4,000 pupils in just 12 months.
Research has shown that wearing a seatbelt reduces the chances of being killed in a car crash by 50 per cent.
↧
Indefinite hospital order for man who stabbed stranger to death
A man who killed a stranger in a Birmingham park has been given an indefinite hospital order.
Ranjit Singh, aged 41 of no fixed address, was handed the sentence last Friday (17 March) after pleading guilty to the manslaughter of Umesh Parekh.
Umesh, aged 34, was killed in Waverhill Park, Handsworth, on Saturday 19 June last year.
Singh attacked Umesh, stabbing him in the chest with a knife during an argument about an invitation to visit a temple.
Singh later admitted he was in a state of mind where he would attack anyone who posed a threat to him.
He also said that at the time he was hearing voices telling him to kill and sometimes thought he was in a Bollywood movie.
Singh was arrested for the murder on Tuesday 21 March after walking into West Bromwich police station and confessing.
He was given a full mental health assessment and later sectioned. After undergoing an extensive psychiatric assessment, the court heard how at the time of the attack he was suffering from paranoid schizophrenia.
In sentencing Singh to an indefinite hospital and restriction order, under Section 41 of the Mental Health Act, Judge Thomas concluded that no order could begin to make good the grief suffered by the family, the loss being irreparable.
Judge Thomas said that Singh was an extremely dangerous individual who would offend if not taking medication. He also stated that in the interests of public safety, a hospital and restriction order was the most appropriate way of dealing with him. This means that he can never be released without approval from the Ministry of Justice and that of a mental health tribunal.
Detective Sergeant Andy Houston, from Force CID, said: “This has been a truly horrific time for Umesh’s family who are struggling to come to terms with what has happened and I cannot imagine the sense of loss they feel. I hope the sentence will be of some comfort to them and help them rebuild their lives."
↧