Developing closer ties with the community
Our new community policing model came into effect on May 8 and I thought I would take this opportunity to provide you with an update as to how it is progressing.
The new model was introduced after our communities and our own officers concluded that we could improve our methods of engaging with the public.
As a result of the change, we now have two dedicated problem-solving officers for each ward area.
So far, the feedback from communities and elected members has been extremely encouraging. The model has allowed our problemsolving officers to dedicate more time to speak to people.
This has improved their understanding of local issues and they now have more time to take action in relation to any concerns that are raised.
I meet with the officers on a regular basis and I have been impressed by the amount of local knowledge they have gained in a relatively short period of time.
This knowledge has allowed them to detect offenders and resolve matters to the benefit of our communities.
Should you wish to speak with your local officers, then you can phone 101 or follow the links on the Police Scotland website.
I would like to appeal for information in relation to a number of thefts which have occurred over the last week.
They are not confined to a particular area.
Between 9pm on July 10 and 1.05am on July 11 a vehicle was broken into in Swinburne Avenue, Blantyre and property stolen. A suspect was observed and is described as being male, about 20 years of age, six foot, slim build wearing a blue/silver tracksuit top.
On the same night, a further motor vehicle was broken into at Camelon Crescent, Blantyre.
Between midnight and 6.20am on July 12, a grey BMW X6 and a grey VW transporter were stolen from Limekilburn Road, Quarter, and between 7.30am and 9.30am on July 14, in Burnbank Road, Hamilton, a house was broken into and a variety of jewellery and electrical equipment was stolen.
We also had a theft from a locker at Esporta, Hamilton, where the suspect has forced open a locker and stolen a variety of property including a highvalue watch.
In terms of recent arrests, a 21-year-old man was arrested in Buller Crescent, Blantyre, after being found within property where it may be inferred that he was there to commit theft.
We continue to impact on those who make profit from selling drugs and on July 14, we searched a property in Fereneze Crescent, Hamilton, which resulted in a male and female being reported for being concerned in the supply or controlled drugs.
If you have any information you feel should be reported please contact the police using 101, or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.