Humberside Police - A Division

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE AND BRAVERY – HUMBERSIDE POLICE CHIEF CONSTABLE COMMENDATIONS

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:02:02 +0000

In an awards ceremony, which took place on Wednesday 22 February 2012 Humberside Police’s Chief Constable Tim Hollis commended a large number of the forces officers and staff for their bravery, dedication and excellence at the Guildhall in Hull.

The commendations covered a number of different areas from saving the public from life threatening situations; putting themselves in danger to tackle criminality and working above and beyond expectations in bring offenders to justice, supporting organisational charge or supporting victims.

For bravery, Chief Constable Tim HOLLIS commended:

PC Daniel Herman and PC Stephen Caulfield for the bravery they displayed during the rescue of a man from a car fire in an alleyway to the rear of Northfield Road, Hull on Friday 25 November 2011. PC Herman approached the car which was on fire and saw there was a man slumped in the vehicle. The officers immediately requested support from Humberside Fire and Rescue and the Ambulance Service. However due to the potential life threatening nature of the incident PC Herman risked his own safety and entered the car to try and free the man and with the help of PC Caulfield managed to pull him to safety. He suffered only minor injuries in the incident, but it is clear that without the prompt and effective actions of the officers this man would have suffered severe injuries or even died.

PC Alistair Hawkins from C Division for the bravery and professionalism he displayed in rescuing a man from the sea during the hours of darkness. A 43 year old man, in drink, was reported to be attempting suicide by drowning in the North Sea off Hornsea. PC Hawkins was single crewed and arrived within three minutes of the 999 call. Other units were already heading to support and the Coastguard and Hornsea Rescue were also tasked but had not yet arrived. PC HAWKINS entered the sea without hesitation. He was some 10-15 metres in and was immersed up to his mid chest, with waves crashing into him, before he reached the man who initially did not want to be rescued and began to struggle.

As he felt his situation was becoming more precarious. PC HAWKINS pressed his Airwave emergency button to summon urgent assistance but due to the water damage it had become ineffective which hampered effective communication. After several minutes of struggling the man eventually gave up and PC Hawkins managed to safely restrain him and pull the man from the sea. The man was restrained for several minutes prior to the arrival of the Coastguard, Hornsea Rescue, and Ambulance. The man was subsequently taken to Hull Royal Infirmary.

PS (Police Sergeant) Stephen Wash, PC Michael Jackson and PC Christopher Howson for their bravery they displayed during the rescue of a man from a house fire on the 09 January 2012. Without the officers prompt action the man could have easily suffered severe injuries and more likely have died.

Chief Constable of Humberside Police Tim Hollis said: "On Wednesday 22nd February 2012, it gave me enormous pleasure to present commendations to 29 Humberside Police Officers and staff, who in recent months have delivered fantastic results in often very difficult circumstances.

"Some of these awards recognised officers who put their lives in grave danger in order to save others. Frequently our staff demonstrate great courage and bravery and yesterdays ceremony celebrated some of those instances that make me immensely proud.

"These are testing times for the British Police Service, but regardless of what changes are afoot, our officers and staff will continue to do their utmost to protect the public in Humberside.

"The details of yesterdays citations are listed below and I hope you will take a few moments to read through them."

Other Commendations include:

Superintendent Mark Smith from D Division in recognition of his bravery for arresting a violent offender whilst off duty on Christmas Eve 2011 in Barton town centre. He was with his wife on a night out when he witnessed a man unconscious on the pavement being kicked and stamped on over his body and head by an offender. He intervened in the assault before becoming involved in a struggle with the man and with the help of the public he managed to restrain the man until support arrived. The victim and Superintendent Smith were taken to hospital. The victim suffered a broken femur, head injuries needing stitches and lost four teeth and is still recovering. Without intervention the injuries could well have been even more serious.

Logistics and Events Planning Officer Keith Hylands from D Division in recognition of his outstanding work, dedication and commitment over a long period of time working on the Force Shift Review.

DC Katherine Mann from B Division for the professionalism she displayed when dealing with a case involving the sexual abuse of two young children aged six years and 18 months. The very difficult and challenging investigation led to a man being found guilty of 33 offences and was sentenced to 21 years and a woman being found guilty of four offences and being sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Police Community Support Officer Tracy Parkinson from D Division for her contribution to community policing. PCSO Parkinson has worked very hard to achieve excellent results. She never looks for a quick fix to a situation or incident but always tries to come up with a long term, sustainable solution. Specifically she helped reduce anti-social behaviour in her ward with the introduction of a ‘FREE RUNNING’ diversary activity aimed at young people who were often responsible for calls to service.

Campaigns Officer Laura Gawthorpe from C Division for the professionalism she displayed when dealing with the aftermath of a house fire on Thursday 11th November 2010 at an address on Clarence Avenue, Bridlington which sadly resulted in the death of three young children, with their mother remaining seriously ill in hospital. She assisted senior officers and provided a great support to the children’s grandmother spending time with the family, protecting them from the national press which allowed them to grieve in private while accepting the natural public interest in the case.

PC Joanne Ostler from A Division for her impressive work as a student officer. She has constantly demonstrated enthusiasm for the role as well as tenacity and a willingness to succeed. Specifically her work around tackling shop theft and supporting local stores.

PC Ryan Dillon from C Division for his impressive work as a student officer. Since joining as a probationer in August 2010 he has worked very hard to achieve excellent results, actively seeks feedback on his performance and uses this to continue to develop and maintain very high standards. He has shown excellent communication skills, quite often he is able to diffuse volatile situations with his calm manner and listening skills.

PC Andrew White from C Division for his contribution to community policing in Kirkella for the last two years. He has grasped the importance of locally led policing and puts time into understanding exactly what are the local issues and expectations. This has led to some excellent working in bringing rogue traders to justice and creativity in the use of restorative justice to deal with young people.

PC Gordon Underwood, PC Michael Pahlen and Detention Officer Matthew Dennett of D Division for their professionalism when dealing with a 28-year-old man who collapsed unconscious and was not breathing in an incident in the custody suite at Queens Gardens Police Station on Saturday 10th December 2011. The officers and staff performed first aid which eventually opened his airway and allowed him to start breathing. The 28-year-old man was eternally grateful to the officers and thanked them for saving his life and allowing him to be able to see his family again.

Detective Sergeant Gavin Orsborne, Detective Constable Simon Gooding, former Detective Inspector Nigel Sawyer and a former Investigation Officer from C Division along with PC Simon Copeman from the Crime Management Branch for their commitment, perseverance and dedication in ensuring a successful investigation into an organised crime group responsible for a series of “Hanoi” 2 in 1 burglaries that occurred across the country.

Operation Yankee set up in December 2009 and in April 2010 resulted in 30 members of a gang responsible for stealing an estimated six million pounds worth of vehicles were arrested across six forces, including Humberside, in a week long operation and as a result 26 members were charged with various offences ranging from burglary, conspiracy to burgle to handling stolen goods. The gang have now been sentenced to over 84 years imprisonment.

PC Carl Bugg and PC Susan Waslin from D Division for the bravery and professionalism they displayed when dealing with a firearms incident in Queens Gardens, Hull on Thursday 20 October, 2011. It was reported that at woman was holding a firearm to her head and making threats to kill herself. Although the officer believed the gun to be a BB gun, it was a large handgun and the woman was holding this to her neck and temple area. During the incident the officers approached the woman engaging her in conversation, but were threatened and the firearm was fired in their direction. However, while she was distracted by other officers and PC Bugg took this opportunity to run at her. Showing tremendous courage and bravery he tackled her to the ground, forcing the firearm from her hand.

The force firearms expert has tested the weapon and classed it as a potentially lethal weapon. Both officers acted instinctively and quickly in response to an extremely difficult situation.

PC Daniel Fleming, Piper and Drum Major for the Humberside Police Band in recognition of his charitable works and excellent achievements, effectively promoting Humberside Police in his own time whilst carrying out the role. After a career in the army, during which he achieved his life time ambition of becoming Pipe Major, he joined the Humberside Police in 2004. In that time he has been a dedicated and effective fundraiser and has helped the band raise in excess of £20,000 for both local and national charities.

DID YOU WITNESS DAMAGE TO A MOTOR VEHICLE ON WELHOME ROAD - GRIMSBY

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:52:16 +0000

POLICE are appealing for help in tracing a member of the public, who may have witnessed a damage to a motor vehicle on Welholme Road, Grimsby on Friday 17 February.

An offender is alleged to have kicked a Ford Transit Connect van, causing damage to the wing mirror.

Police are keen to locate a member of the public who is alleged to have chased the offender along Welholme Road, before losing sight of them.

The offender is described as a white male, 5ft 9ins tall and wearing a baseball cap, a grey waterproof jacket and dark trousers.

The member of the public or anyone who may have information in connection with the incident is asked to call Humberside Police tel 101 quoting crime reference 1891266.

DID YOU WITNESS A ROAD TRAFFIC COLLISION - CONVAMORE ROAD - GRIMSBY

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:23:43 +0000

POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a road traffic collision on Convamore Road, Grimsby at around 1053hrs on Friday 17 February.

A blue coloured BMW and a blue coloured Mercedes were travelling along Convamore Road in the direction of Pasture Street.

As they travel across the junction with Eleanor Street, the BMW is involved in a collision with a female pedestrian, who was crossing the road.

The pedestrian, Belinda ATHA, (41) of Litchfield Road, Grimsby , was taken to Diana Princess of Wales hospital for treatment, but sadly died a short time later.

The driver of the BMW and the Mercedes were not injured in the collision.

Police arrested a 31 year old man in connection with the incident. He has been released on bail to a date in March, pending further enquiries.

Police placed a full road closure on Convamore Road including the junctions with Ladysmith Road, Pasture Street, Wellington Street and Eleanor Street, following the incident.

Police have spoken to a number of witnesses and would now like to speak anyone who may have information and have not yet come forward, and anyone who may have seen the vehicles prior to the collision.

Anyone who can assist police with their enquiries is asked to call Humberside Police tel 101 quoting log 184 17 February 2012.

Did you see assault on Weelsby Road?

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 15:55:45 +0000

A 43-year-old man was injured during a disagreement with another male while travelling as a front seat passenger along Weelsby Road in a black coloured Vauxhall Vectra.

This resulted in the 43-year-old opening the car door and getting out while the vehicle was still moving at which point the driver carried out a U-turn and drove back towards the victim before assaulting him again and driving off.

Following initial inquiries, a 40-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident however detectives are keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or saw a black coloured Vauxhall Vectra doing a U-turn on Weelsby Road.

Anyone with information should contact Humberside Police on 101 quoting log number 556 of 18/02/12 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

HAVE YOU BEEN A VICTIM OF A PLANT OR MILK THEFT IN CLEETHORPES?

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:07:17 +0000

POLICE are asking people in the Cleethorpes area to contact them if they were a victim of wheelie bin, plant and/or milk theft in the early hours of Tuesday 14 February 2012.

Police stopped two 28 year old women in Cleethorpes who are alleged to have been causing disruption in the area.

One of the women was in possession of a wheelie bin, which contained a number of plants and bottles of milk.

Officers arrested the women on suspicion of theft. They have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have had items stolen from their gardens, or who may have seen two women acting suspiciously in the Cleethorpes area.

Anyone with information is asked to call Humberside Police tel 101 quoting crime reference 1890623.

POLICE APPEAL FOR WITNESSES TO HANDBAG THEFT - TESCO - CLEETHORPES

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:30:13 +0000

POLICE are appealing for witnesses to come forward, following a handbag theft at Tesco, Hewitts Circus, Cleethorpes on Thursday 09 February 2012.

Two men on mountain bikes were seen to have been loitering outside the entrance to the store.

An elderly woman, exited the store and along with her small sized trolley she walked towards the pedestrian exit - heading onto Grimsby Road, Humberston.

The woman was then approached by the two men on mountain bikes, who are alleged to have stolen her red coloured leather handbag, which was placed inside her trolley, along with two bags of shopping.

The men then cycled off towards Belvoir Road, pursued by a member of the public, who lost sight of the men as they headed onto Tree Estate.

Following a number of enquiries police managed to locate one of the possible offenders, who was taken to Grimsby Police station for questioning.

The 31-year-old man was released on police bail, pending further enquiries.

Police would like to remind anyone who is in possession of valuables such as handbags, mobile phones and cash to make sure they are not easily accessible to opportunist thieves.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to call Humberside Police tel 101 quoting crime reference 1889827 or call Crimestoppers tel 0800 555 111.

APPEAL FOR INFORMATION - ASSAULT - VICTORIA STREET - GRIMSBY

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:30:37 +0000

POLICE are appealing for information in connection with an incident which happened between 0135hrs and 0152hrs on Saturday 21 January 2012, close to Gulliver's nightclub, Victoria Street, Grimsby.

A 33-year-old man left Gulliver's and walked across the paved area, towards a group of people.

The man is alleged to have been involved in an altercation with the group, when an individual approached the man and allegedly assaulted him.

The man fell to the floor causing injuries to his lip and a laceration to the back of his head, for which he received treatment at Diana Princess of Wales Hospital.

The offender is described as a white man, slim build with dark coloured spiky hair. He was wearing a dark coloured open neck shirt, a white coloured cardigan and red/orange coloured trousers. He is believed to have had a tattoo on his upper chest.

Anyone who may have information in connection with the incident is asked to call Humberside Police tel 101 quoting crime reference 1886531.

POLICE APPEAL FOR HELP IN LOCATING THE OWNER(S) OF STOLEN JEWELLERY - GRIMSBY

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:23:22 +0000

POLICE are appealing for help in locating the owner(s) of a number of items of stolen Jewellery which have been recovered in Grimsby.

The seven items of jewellery were recovered following the execution of a warrant at an address in Grimsby.

The items consist of a number of rings, a bracelet and a necklace.

Police are asking for anyone who believes they may be the owner(s) of the property to contact police to ensure the items are returned as soon as possible.

Police would also like to remind people to register new presents and existing valuables on www.immobilise.com – a free online database which enables you to record the serial numbers and descriptions of your valuables. Should you be a victim of burglary you can change the status to ‘stolen’ which helps investigating Police officers to identify any recovered property and return it to you.

Anyone who may be able to assist police with returning the stolen items to their rightful owner(s) is asked to call Humberside Police tel 101.

MEN SENTENCED FOLLOWING THE MURDER OF ADAM VINCENT

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:19:27 +0000

FOUR men who were found guilty of the murder of Adam Vincent have today been sentenced, following a trial at Sheffield Crown Court.

Lee GRIFFITHS, who was found guilty of murder, peverting the course of justice and conspiracy to supply Class A drugs was today sentenced to 32 years in prison

Luke GRIFFITHS, who was found guilty of murder and peverting the course of justice was sentenced to 26 years in prison

Thomas GRIFFITHS, who was found guilty of murder, peverting the course of justice and conspiracy to supply Class A drugs was today sentenced to 27 years in prison

Mark JACKSON, who was found guilty of murder and peverting the course of justice was sentenced to 29 years in prison

Matthew FROW who was found not guilty of murder but found guilty of GBH with intent, peverting the course of justice and conspiracy to supply Class A drugs was today sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Andrew LUSHER was found not guilty of conspiring to pervert the course of justice with intent.

Following the sentencing the parents of Adam Vincent issued the following statements:

Adam Vincent’s mother, Sheila Baxter said:

“Adam is still my baby. He always will be. I love him to bits.

“This has been a very traumatic time for the whole family and now that the trial has ended I hope that we can start to look to the future.

“All we want is justice for Adam.

“He is very much missed by everyone and will always be missed.

“I have received a lot of support from my family, Adam’s friends especially his best mate Chris Skelton, and the police and I would like to thank them all.”

Adam's father Keith Vincent said: "As a family we will never be able to find closure following the death of Adam thanks to the actions of the men who took his life at such a young age.

"Their actions have subjected all of us to a life sentence as we try to find a way of coming to terms with what has happened.

"Although there are no forms of punishment which will come close to taking away our feelings of anger and loss, we can only hope that this verdict at least helps us to close the door on this very dark time."

More gully covers stolen from NEL area

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 14:20:52 +0000

The thefts took place between the 21 and 24 of August during which around 20 of the covers were taken leaving the sections of road they were removed from in a potentially dangerous state.

James Cartwright, a spokesperson for Humberside Police said: "We have put out a number of appeals recently following thefts of gully covers and yet we have had little information back so far.

"When these covers are removed a large hole is left in the road which puts drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and other road users in danger, particularly at night when the holes are almost impossible to spot.

"Thankfully so far no one has been hurt however it is vital that we identify those responsible to remove the risk to the public.

"We are asking the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity right away. We are also asking for scrap metal dealers to play their part if approached by someone trying to offload such items and try to establish the validity of those trying to sell the covers. If in doubt call the police."

Anyone with information relating to the theft of these covers or scrap metal theft in general should contact either Humberside Police on 0845 60 60 222 or call Crimestoppers who will take your information without the need to give your details on 0800 555 111.