Cleveland Police’s Proactive Team make more than 300 arrests

Cleveland Police’s Proactive Team has made more than 300 arrests since its inception seven months ago – averaging 42 arrests a month.

The team of eight was set up to focus on getting some of Cleveland’s most wanted offenders into custody as well as providing operational support.

These results were achieved through targeted proactive patrols, utilising stop and search powers, and targeting outstanding suspects on behalf of specialist investigative teams such as CID, Domestic Abuse Unit and Children and Vulnerable Adults (CAVA).

Working closely with the Force Intelligence Unit, the team regularly use their local knowledge and intelligence systems to swiftly apprehend outstanding suspects.

This was demonstrated during one occasion when the team acted on intelligence that a suspect, who was wanted for affray, was attempting to flee the country.

The team conducted an early morning arrest attempt at a local airport and detained him as he checked onto a flight. He was charged and remanded in custody.

This was also evident when the team swiftly identified and arrested a knife-point robbery suspect who threatened to stab his terrified victim and stole her handbag.

He was subsequently charged and appeared in court recently where he was jailed for two years and eight months.

Acting Inspector, Darren Williamson, said: “The achievements of the officers on this team should not be underestimated. They have been committed to achieving our aims and objectives since the formation of the team in November 2022 - any success is down to their hard work and commitment.

“Their proactive approach has seen numerous weapons and drugs taken off the streets, and cannabis farms located and dismantled.

“There are plans to expand the current team, which will enable us to continue to track down and arrest outstanding offenders for serious violence offences in a timely and efficient manner, secure evidence and allow specialist investigative units to seek charges and remands in custody.

“By targeting those who continue to engage in drug dealing and violence we will ultimately make our communities safer places to live.”