More than 100 arrests as Cleveland Police continue hunt for suspects involved in violent disorder

The latest round-up came as police swarmed 20 addresses during morning raids yesterday (Wednesday 28 August 2024) targeting individuals suspected of being involved in the Middlesbrough disorder.

At least 14 people – aged between 11 and 43 – were arrested at various areas across Teesside including Redcar, Stockton, Middlesbrough, and South Bank.

One woman, aged 43, became the hundredth person to be detained by officers.

The woman, eight men and five juveniles were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and transported to custody for questioning. Since then, five men, two aged 25 and a 22, 23 and 36-year-old, as well as a 14-year-old boy and a 43-year-old woman have been charged. The other four juveniles and three men have been released on conditional bail.

It follows weeks of investigative work by a dedicated team of detectives who have, and continue to trawl through CCTV, mobile phone and online footage of individuals suspected of being involved in the disorder that brought fear and harm to the local community.

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Robinson, leading the investigation into the disorder, said: “I’m pleased to say that the operation yesterday was a success, and we hope it provides reassurance to the community that we won’t stop in our pursuit to bring offenders to justice.

“This is due to a team of around 40 officers from across the force working around the clock since the disorder took place to identify those who chose to involve themselves in the violence that day.

“Our dedication and commitment to targeting every single one of those individuals is for the people within the community who were left fearful and scared to leave their homes.

“We have heard such harrowing accounts from terrified families with young children, and elderly people, who hid in the rooms of their homes, afraid to come out. These stories continue to spur us on every day to be relentless in catching these people."

Assistant Chief Constable David Felton said: “Cleveland Police remains determined to find those involved in the violent disorder we saw in Hartlepool and Middlesbrough.

“The investigation into the disorder is very much still in train and officers continue to review CCTV, phone and body worn video footage every day.

“We will continue to identify those responsible. Yesterday’s activity demonstrates that and sends a clear message.

“We will not tolerate the actions of those whose only intent is to cause disruption, harm and divide in communities across Teesside.”

If you believe someone to be involved in the disorder that occurred in Hartlepool or Middlesbrough please contact Cleveland Police on 101 or if reticent to come forward, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.