40 extra police for Basildon

From the archive, first published Friday 13th Apr 2007.

AN extra 40 police have been drafted into Basildon for a three-month crime blitz.

The officers, ranging from volunteer special constables to detectives, will target all levels of crime.

Tough-talking Chief Supt Simon Coxall has warned criminals from outside Basildon who come in to prey on the district to "bring a solicitor with them" in future.

His new team, which usually operates from the force's Chelmsford HQ, will also beef up the police presence in Thurrock.

Mr Coxall said: "There are still criminals coming here, scarring our performance and making people unhappy.

"They need to be turned away, but if they insist on coming here then my advice to them is to bring a lawyer and tell loved ones they may be some time.

"The higher visible presence on the roads and streets will be backed up by larger teams of detectives who will look to hold to account those newly arrested for any undetected crimes.

"We need to show residents we care about them and bring their attackers to justice."

Almost one year on from the summer which saw four men murdered in as many weeks - three of whom were stabbed - the clampdown will see officers running operations to arrest people carrying knives and other offensive weapons.

The South Western police division, which covers Basildon and Thurrock, is the only one of Essex's five divisions to take part in the three-month project, which has been dubbed Operation Sprint by police chiefs.

Senior officers in the division, which has the highest level of crime in the whole county, are hoping it will improve the quality of life for residents and up the number of crimes solved.

Mr Coxall, the divisional commander, added: "I'm proud of my officers, proud of their achievements and proud to lead a division that wants to become the best-performing in Essex.

"This three-month operation will help realise their potential and make us reach our goals."