Cheshire Neighbourhood Watch Association Week ending 23rd June 2019 News & Appeals

Latest Cheshire News

Boy charged with attempted murder following incident in A 15-year-old boy from Chester has been charged with attempted murder after a 14-year-old boy from the city sustained serious injuries in an incident in Handbridge.

He has also been charged with possessing a bladed article in a public place. The incident occurred on Handbridge Road at around 3pm yesterday, Thursday 20 June, and the 15-year-old was arrested soon after. The 14-year-old was taken to hospital via an ambulance. He has since been discharged from hospital after receiving treatment for the serious injuries he sustained. The 15-year-old appeared at Magistrates’ Court on Saturday 22 June. He has been remanded in custody and is set to appear at Chester Crown Court on Monday 8 July.

Airport worker from Weaverham jailed for sexual offences against children An airport worker from Weaverham has been jailed for 18 months after admitting having sexual activity with a child and possessing thousands of indecent images.

Christopher Ashbrook, of Wallerscote Road, Weaverham, pleaded guilty at Chester Crown Court to engaging in sexual activity with a child, attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, engaging in sexual communication with a child, three counts of making (downloading) indecent images of children and possession of indecent images of children. On November 11, 2017, a warrant was executed at the 35-year- old’s house after he had been identified as the person who had uploaded five indecent images, of category C, of young boys to Twitter. Officer seized his phone, laptops and a tablet and uncovered that he had a total of 1563 images and videos of children with 110 of those being category A (the most serious type) and 85 category B. Officers also found that he had been engaging in sexual conversations with children on Periscope, a streaming service. When interviewed by officers Ashbrook claimed that he had started speaking to boys online - whilst pretending to be a 14 year old boy called Gavin - to try and protect them from paedophiles. He claimed that he had stopped one boy from being exploited but then he started to send him sexual messages. Whilst Ashbrook was on bail a 15-year-old boy came forward to police and said that Ashbrook had touched him sexually and made sexual comments to him. At Chester Crown Court yesterday, Thursday 20 June, Ashbrook was jailed for 18 months and told to sign on the sex offenders register for 10 years. He was also given a 10 year Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Detective Constable Simon Ledger said: “Ashbrook has continually tried to play down his offending by claiming he was trying to help young boys and not exploit them. In reality he has tried to exploit boys over a long period of time and is a committed paedophile. I want to thank the victim for his bravery in coming forward and supporting a prosecution.”

Two burglars in jailed Two men who committed two separate burglaries in Warrington have been jailed.

Steven Wilson, aged 37, of Lincoln Close in Woolston was sentenced to three years and six months on Monday 17 June after pleading guilty to a burglary on Hepherd Street. It was on the 13 December 2018 that Wilson woke the occupants of the address as he banged on the front door and threw things at the window. He forced his way into the house through the front door and could be heard by the couple inside searching cupboards and struggling to open their kitchen door. One of the occupants could hear their dog crying and yelping downstairs and went to check on it. They then saw Wilson running out of the house into the back garden with items of clothing he had stolen from them. Wilson was spotted by an officer jumping over a fence and with assistance from National Police Air Support he was caught by a police dog as he attempted to hide behind a shed nearby. Meanwhile Cailen Smith, aged 19, of Wendover Road in Manchester will serve two years and two months after pleading guilty to burglary and attempted burglary. On 6 May 2019 Smith broke into a house on Clydesdale Road in Warrington while the occupants were asleep inside. He stole car keys and a wallet before driving off in their car. Smith then used the victim’s bank card to buy food and drinks at McDonalds and Costa Coffee. In the early hours of 7 May 2019 Smith woke the occupier of a house on Broughton Close after he attempted to break-in to her home and set the house alarm off. A 15-year-old boy from Manchester was also given a 20 month detention and training order on 29 May after pleading guilty to burglary and attempted burglary.

Detective Constable Michael McDermott, of Warrington Local Policing Unit, said: “Having an intruder come into your home when you are sleeping can be very frightening and nobody should ever be made to feel that way in their own home. I want those who have been a victim of a burglary to feel reassured that we work very hard, doing everything we can, to find those responsible. It is following a thorough investigation that these men are now in prison and justice has been served to the victims.”

Patrols stepped up following serious assualt in Chester Patrols in Chester have been stepped up after a 14-year-old boy was seriously assaulted in the Handbridge area of the city.

At 3.06pm on Thursday 20 June officers were called to reports of an assault near Old Dee Bridge. On arrival officers found that a 14-year-old boy had been stabbed; he was taken to the Countess of Chester Hospital. The boy has since been transferred to the Alder Hey Hospital where his condition is described as serious but stable. A 15-year-old was arrested nearby on suspicion of section 18 assault and is currently in police custody.

Chief Inspector Carlos Brunes said: “Incidents of this nature are extremely rare in the Chester area and, understandably, this incident is likely to cause concern in the local community. We have increased patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the local community. In addition, we also have a specialist team of officers in place at Queens Park School to provide support to those who have been affected by this incident. I would urge anyone with any concerns to speak to an officer.”

Detective Inspector Paul Laughlin added: “Enquiries in relation to this incident are ongoing and we are working hard to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. As part of the investigation we are urging anyone who was in the area and witnessed the incident, or anything else that may aid our investigation, to get in touch. We would also like to hear from anyone with any CCTV or dashcam footage that may be relevant to our investigation.” Anyone with information or CCTV footage that may help the ongoing investigation should call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 433282. Alternatively you can submit information online via https://www.cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries. To submit dashcam footage visit www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage

Officers in Crewe given more powers in bid to tackle knife crime Officers in Crewe have been given a temporary boost to their powers to stop and search anyone they suspect of carrying a weapon. It follows a stabbing last weekend where a 29-year-old man was subject to an unprovoked attack on Road.

The powers will be in place from 7pm on Friday 21 June to 4am on Saturday 22 June and then subsequently from 7pm on Saturday 22 June to 4am on Sunday 23 June. The powers, which have been granted under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act (1994), allow officers to stop and search any person or vehicle looking for weapons, whether or not they have any grounds of suspicion.

Officers from Crewe Local Policing Unit, supported by specialist task force officers and the Special Constabulary, will be in the Nantwich Road area using those powers to deter people from carrying weapons and to identify those carrying them. British Transport Police will also be supporting the operation as the powers granted extend to the railway station. This is the second time these powers have been granted for use by Crewe officers in June and follows a number of stabbing and serious assaults that have taken place in the Nantwich Road area over the past three months.

Chief Inspector of Crewe Local Policing Unit Simon Newell said: “We have arrested four youths as a result of the most recent stabbing incident and they have been bailed whilst additional enquiries are undertaken by Crewe CID officers. But we want to make sure that doing everything we can to deter people from carrying weapons. Use of these additional powers is not something which is taken lightly, but we believe it necessary to demonstrate to the community we are on the front foot in our response to detect and deter people from carrying and using weapons. The consequences of carrying and using a weapon are very severe with a male recently receiving a nine year sentence for a stabbing incident on Nantwich Road in March. By carrying or using a knife you are literally putting your lives and others at risk. I would encourage the public to contact the police via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 with any information about anyone carrying a weapon so that we can take positive action to target that individual.”

In addition PCSOs will also be engaging with residents and businesses to highlight what the Constabulary is doing to tackle knife crime in their area.

Teenager arrested after serious assault in Chester Officers were called at 3.06pm to Old Dee Bridge, Handbridge, following reports of an assault.

A 14-year-old boy sustained serious injuries and has been taken to the Countess of Chester Hospital. A 15- year-old has been arrested on suspicion of section 18 assault and is currently in police custody. Officers remain in the area whilst enquiries are ongoing and Old Dee Bridge is currently closed. Anyone with any information is asked to call Cheshire Police on 101, quoting incident number IML 433282.

Two men charged following a disturbance in the town Two men from Runcorn have been charged following an incident in the town.

Ian Wareing and Liam Wareing were arrested in Poplar Close, where they both live, at around 11.15am yesterday, Wednesday 19 June. They were arrested in connect with a disturbance on Grangeway that occurred around half-an-hour earlier. A 26-year-old man from Runcorn is believed to have sustained minor injuries during the incident. Ian Wareing, 52, and Liam Wareing, 23, have both subsequently been charged with a public order offence. Ian Wareing has also been charged with dangerous driving. The pair have been released on conditional bail and are set to appear at Warrington Magistrates’ Court on Friday 5 July.

Public encouraged to be vigilant as thieves target shoppers Police are encouraging the public to be extra vigilant as thieves target shoppers across the county.

Offenders are known to visit cafes and supermarkets to target women on their own – believed to be aged 60 and above – to steal their items and money. Thieves will often be working in pairs or groups where one will distract the victim while the other steals from them. While local Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) will be patrolling public areas, cafes and supermarkets as well as providing prevention advice to charity shops, police are keen to remind the public to also be on their guard.

The local community can help protect themselves from thieves by following these simple steps.  Do not leave your handbag hung over the shopping trolley or unattended at any time. Make sure your bag has a secure zip fastening and for added security, secure your purse inside a zipped pocket inside the bag to help protect against thieves reaching inside your bag or purse to search for valuables.  If you are approached by a stranger in unusual circumstances in or around a supermarket, do not engage with them, particularly if they ask for directions or change. Be firm with them, walk away, and report any suspicious activity to the police.  When using a chip & pin device or ATM, always shield your number with your hand. Avoid using cash machines that appear to have been tampered with, or where groups of people are hanging around.

Superintendent Peter Crowcroft: “These thieves are driven by opportunity and target women who are on their own in a café or shopping in the supermarket. We have also noticed how they tend to steal from those who are aged 60 or over. To help deter thieves and provide reassurance to the local community local officers will be carrying out regular patrols and giving advice to local shops. I would also encourage the public to make elderly friends and neighbours aware of these thieves and if possible to purchase purse bells, which can be a great deterrent.”

Dale Maskell, Chief Executive of Age UK Cheshire, added: “We support Cheshire police in urging members of the public to remain alert and vigilant. We don’t want to scare people, especially older people, or stop them from going about their business as usual, but it is of paramount importance that people are aware that distraction thefts are on the increase and that by following the above advice they are helping to protect themselves.”

Anyone who sees anyone acting suspiciously or has any information should contact Cheshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Gang of class A drug dealers jailed for more than 20 years A gang of men from who flooded the town’s streets with class A drugs have been jailed for a total of more than 20 years.

Joseph Cooper, 40, David Middleton, 34, Nigel Middleton, 45, Paul Walker, 35, and Carter Flood, 19, all pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to supply a class A drug (crack cocaine). Cooper, who was the leader of the organised crime group, also admitted a charge of conspiracy to possess another class A drug (heroin) with intent to supply, as did Walker and Flood. Brothers David and Nigel Middleton, both of Bailey Avenue, pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to supply heroin.

David Middleton also admitted a charge of possessing a prohibited weapon after what looked to be a torch in his trouser pocket when he was arrested turned out to be a disguised Taser. Cooper, who prior to being taken into custody lived on Bebington Road in , David Middleton, Walker and Flood were sentenced for their offences at Chester Crown Court on Thursday 30 May.Cooper was jailed for six years and David Middleton was given a custodial sentence of seven years and four months. Walker, of Singleton Road, was sentenced to three years in prison and Flood, who prior to being taken into custody lived in Suffolk Avenue, was handed a three-year sentence to be served at a young offenders’ institute. Nigel Middleton was sentenced at Chester Crown Court on Friday 14 June. He was jailed for three years.

Police began monitoring the group’s drug dealing activities on Friday 4 January. They discovered that Cooper was the ringleader of the operation who distributed class A drugs and drug dealing instructions to the other members of the gang. His sub dealers would then sell the drugs to Ellesmere Port residents after sending them text messages informing them of when and where they could buy heroin and crack cocaine. A pay-as- you-go phone used to send such messages was seized from David Middleton’s home when he was arrested on Sunday 17 February following an allegation of assault. A list of contacts believed to be involved in drug related activities, £755 in cash and plastic bags commonly used for drug dealing were also found at the address. Whilst David Middleton was in custody Walker took his place in the group. Flood began dealing drugs for the gang the day that he was released from a young offenders’ institute, on Friday 22 February.

A few weeks later, on Thursday 7 March, a package of drugs dropped off by the gang in a wooden area in Rivacre Brook was seized by police. It contained 85 bags of crack cocaine that could be sold on the streets for between £10 and £20 each. Cooper, Walker and Flood were all arrested the following day. All three men were found with mobile phones that were used as part of the gang’s drug dealing activities. Cooper was also found with clothing that matched what officers had seen when monitoring a man delivering drugs. Drug paraphernalia was also found when the arrests were carried out. Forensic analysis of the mobile phones that were seized revealed the full extent of the group’s offending.

Detective Constable Roy Wellings, of Ellesmere Port Local Policing Unit (LPU), said: “I would like to thank the officers and staff involved in this investigation for all their hard work in securing these convictions. Our two- month investigation into this group’s drug dealing activities revealed that Joseph Cooper was the ringleader and David Middleton, Nigel Middleton, Paul Walker and Carter Flood all supplied illegal drugs to Ellesmere Port residents on his behalf. Removing those involved in class A drug dealing from our communities is of paramount importance as they have a hugely detrimental impact, causing widespread misery. I hope that the sentences handed out to the five members of this organised crime group hammers home the message that drug dealing in Ellesmere Port and the wider Cheshire area will not be tolerated. I also hope that they deter others from getting involved in the supply of illegal drugs.” A Proceeds of Crime Act hearing focusing on the group’s ill-gotten gains is set to take place in September.

Chief Inspector Alex McMillan, also of Ellesmere Port LPU, said: “Although this case has now been concluded our fight against drug dealers goes on and I urge anyone with any information about suspected drug related activity in their community to get in touch with the details. Breaking the cycle of serious and organised crime is very difficult and while we work with our partners we need the public to be extra eyes and ears and to come forward with information.”

Suspected drug dealing activity can be reported to Cheshire Constabulary directly by calling 101. Alternatively information can also be given anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

Cheshire Constabulary takes the crown at Royal Cheshire Show Cheshire Constabulary proved it was the cream of the crop when it was awarded first place for ‘Best Trade Stand’ at the Royal Cheshire Show.

Thousands of visitors poured into the emergency service’s exhibition stand on Tuesday and Wednesday (June 18-19) at the Tabley Showground. The show is one of the biggest agricultural events in the country and gave Cheshire Constabulary the perfect opportunity to engage with the public and share vital crime prevention and safety messages. There were a number of eye-catching displays and attractions, with the judges highlighting the interaction with young people – particularly with the road safety driving school - and the variety of things to see and do on the stand. There was a Cyber Crime stand with representatives from Get Safe Online, Natwest and Kaspersky who joined police in educating the public on how to stay safe online. There was also a road safety stand, where the team explained the dangers and consequences of committing one of the Fatal 5 offences – which are careless driving, speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, using a mobile phone while driving and drink/drug driving. And a forensics stand gave children the chance to step into the world of CSI and witness a crime scene demonstration – and even have their fingerprints taken. Show attendees were also able to see a police dog demonstration in the main ring and PC Panda even made its debut as the force’s official police mascot. The team were rewarded for their efforts when show judges deemed it the Best Trade Stand at this year’s show.

The Cheshire Show also offered Police & Crime Commissioner David Keane the opportunity to engage with members of the public and conduct his Annual Policing Survey to gather Cheshire residents’ views on policing priorities. PCC David Keane said: “The Cheshire Show provides a great opportunity to engage with communities across Cheshire and to celebrate the best of our wonderful county. I’m incredibly proud that Cheshire Constabulary was awarded ‘Best Trade Stand’. This is testament to the hard work of the Constabulary to make its stands as engaging as possible to spread awareness messages in an effective way. It was great to speak to so many residents from across Cheshire about their priorities for policing. The views captured in my Annual Policing Survey will be used to reshape the Police & Crime Plan to ensure its still relevant in order to keep our communities safe.”

Head of Corporate Communications, Lynn Marsh, said: “It has been a fantastic couple of days for us at the show, and it’s a real testament to all the hard work that has been put in by a number of teams across the Constabulary to make the event a success. The Royal Cheshire Show provides us with the perfect opportunity to spread our messages far and wide, but in a way that is engaging, relevant and fun. We hope that all those who visited our stand went away having learnt something new, while having an enjoyable and interactive experience." To view pictures from the event visit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/cheshirefireservice/albums/72157709140580328

Two men charged after woman is assaulted in Chester Two men have been charged following an assault in the Blacon area of Chester.

Lee Ward, 38, and William Perks, 29, were both arrested in the area at around 12.45pm on Sunday 16 June. Ward was arrested on Bridgeman Road and Perks was arrested in Stubbs Place. They were arrested in connection with reports of a woman having been assaulted on Treborth Road at approximately 4.45am that day. The woman, a 28-year-old from Chester, did not require hospital treatment following the incident. Ward, of Wordsworth Crescent, Blacon, Chester, and Perks, of Churchill Drive, Tarporley, have subsequently been charged with a number of offences. Ward has been charged with assault by beating, possessing an offensive weapon in a public place, driving while disqualified and driving without insurance. Perks has been charged with attempted assault, possessing an offensive weapon in a public place, possessing a bladed article in a public place and resisting arrest. The pair appeared at Chester Magistrates’ Court yesterday, Tuesday 18 June. They were remanded in custody to appear at Chester Crown Court on Tuesday 16 July.

Body found in River Dee identified Shortly after 6am on 6 June the body of a man was discovered in the River Dee. Formal identification has now taken place and we can confirm that it is Colin Purton, aged 78, who went missing from his home in Penyffordd on 22 May. Next of kin have been informed. There do not appear to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and a file will prepared for the coroner.

Large cannabis farm discovered in Runcorn A large quantity of cannabis plants have been seized from a former business premises in Runcorn town centre.

Officers on patrol discovered the cannabis farm in High Street at around 11am on Monday 17 June. The building contained approximately 300 cannabis plants. There were quantities of the class B drug on all four floors of the premises. No arrests have been made at the current time and enquiries in relation to the discovery are ongoing.

Chief Inspector Sarah Heath, of Runcorn Local Policing Unit, said: “We are delighted to have removed a significant quantity of cannabis from the streets of Runcorn. The building contained a large number of cannabis plants and a sophisticated set up of venting systems and electricity use to maximise the amount of class B drugs being cultivated. The seizure is a great result as we are fully aware of the negative impact illegal drug use and supply can have on communities. We want people in Runcorn to feel safe in their community and we are committed to doing all we can to put a stop to this sort of activity.”

Residents are urged to report any suspicions of illegal drug-related activity to the police.

There are a number signs that could indicate that a property is being used as a cannabis farm, including:  A strong and sickly sweet smell  Equipment used to grow cannabis being taken into a property, such as lighting and ventilation equipment  Constantly covered or blocked-off windows – cannabis farms often have constantly closed curtains, black-out blinds or foil coverings  People coming and going at all hours or neighbours you never see  Strong and constant lighting day and night  High levels of heat and condensation – cannabis farms often give off heat and windows stay misted up  A constant buzz of ventilation – listen out for a whirring sound as the offenders try to create an ideal climate for cannabis plants to grow  Lots of power cables – offenders often dig underground to lay cables that hook up to things like lamp posts so they do not have to pay for the enormous amounts of electricity they use.

Anyone with information in relation to the discovery of the cannabis farm in High Street is asked to call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 430496, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Man dies following Chester collision A man who was involved in a serious collision Chester city centre in April has sadly passed away.

At around 9.45pm on Thursday 25 April a white Ford car collided with a man at the pedestrian crossing on St Oswalds Way, near to Mecca Bingo. The pedestrian, 42-year-old Tom Cooke from Chester, sustained serious injuries and was taken to the Walton Centre in Merseyside. Sadly, Mr Cooke passed away on Saturday 15 June. Following his death Mr Cooke’s family have issued the following short statement: “Tom will be very sadly missed by all of his family and friends”. Enquiries in relation to the collision remain ongoing and officers continuing to appeal from anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information or dashcam footage which may aid the investigation.

Anyone with information in relation to the incident should call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML384583, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. To submit dashcam footage go online at www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage .

A 30-year-old man from Chester has been arrested on suspicion of death by dangerous driving. He has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

Large cannabis farm discovered in former Warrington pub A large quantity of cannabis plants have been seized from a former business premises in Warrington town centre.

At around 10.40am on Sunday 16 June officers responding to information from the public discovered a Cannabis Farm at a disused pub on Bridge Street. The building contained a large number of cannabis plants. A 27-year-old man and two 16-year-old boys were arrested at the scene on suspicion of production of a class-B drug (Cannabis). All three have since been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

Chief Inspector Simon Meegan, of Warrington Local Policing Unit, said: Thanks to the information received from a member of the public we have been able to seize a quantity of drugs which could have been destined for the streets of Warrington. This is a great result and it truly shows how information from members of the public is vital in the fight against drug related crime. We know the negative impact illegal drug use and supply can have on the community and we continue to do all we can to put a stop to this sort of activity. Residents are urged to report any suspicions of illegal drug-related activity to the police.”

There are a number signs that could indicate that a property is being used as a cannabis farm, including: • A strong and sickly sweet smell • Equipment to grow cannabis being taken into a property, such as lighting and ventilation equipment • Constantly covered or blocked-off windows – cannabis farms often have constantly closed curtains, black-out blinds or foil coverings • People coming and going at all hours or neighbours you never see • Strong and constant lighting day and night • High levels of heat and condensation – cannabis farms often give off heat and windows stay misted up • A constant buzz of ventilation – listen out for a whirring sound as the growers try to create an ideal climate for cannabis plants to grow • Lots of power cables – offenders often dig underground to lay cables that hook up to things like lamp posts so they do not have to pay for the enormous amounts of electricity they use.

Appeal for information about motorists suspected of drink/drug driving in Cheshire Police are appealing for information about anyone suspected of drink or drug driving in Cheshire.

Officers across the county are continuing to crack down on those who think it is acceptable to get behind the wheel after having an alcoholic drink or taking drugs as part of a national operation. Members of the public are being urged to support the three-week crackdown by passing on information about anyone they suspect is driving under the influence - especially if they have dashcam footage.

Superintendent Jo Marshall-Bell, who is in charge of roads policing in Cheshire, said: “As we head into the summer months, people may be more inclined to get behind the wheel after a enjoying a few drinks with family and friends. Whilst it may be tempting to have a drink and then drive home – it is important to remember that even one alcoholic drink can significantly affect a motorist’s ability to react to their surroundings and the consequences can be fatal. I am urging anyone who suspects somebody is driving under the influence of drink or drugs to report it to us. We take any road traffic offences seriously and will take positive action on any information we receive.”

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, David Keane, said: “People are well aware that driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is incredibly dangerous, yet we still see motorists take to Cheshire’s roads after taking illegal substances or when they are well over the drink drive limit. These selfish, reckless decisions are costing people’s lives so I’m pleased that Cheshire Police is taking part in this campaign to raise awareness of the dangers.”

Superintendent Jo Marshall-Bell added: “My officers are out and about every day looking for anyone committing one of the fatal 5 offences - drink/drug driving, careless driving, speeding, using a mobile phone while driving and not wearing a seatbelt. This crackdown gives us the perfect opportunity to highlight the dangers of one key element off the Fatal 5 - drink/drug driving - and I am asking the public for their support in our mission to make Cheshire’s roads safer. We do not go out policing the roads for the sake of it – we are doing it to save lives. People often ask – should you not be spending your time doing something more important and investigating real crimes? My response to that is simple - people are dying on our roads. Stopping any more deaths from happening as a result of something unnecessary and totally avoidable, has to be one of our top priorities.”

If you suspect anyone of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol report it to us via 101. Alternatively you can submit dashcam footage via our website: https://www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and- support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage/ In an emergency always dial 999.

Deputy Chief Constable to speak at world LGBTQ Conference Deputy Chief Constable Julie Cooke is the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) lead for LGBT+ and is attending the second World LGBTQ Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals in Toronto from 19-21 June 2019.

The conference is focused on criminal justice issues as they relate to LGBTQ communities. It aims to establish best practice techniques and training necessary for the purposes of decreasing homophobia, transphobia and biphobia while increasing cultural diversity awareness in the workplace. Julie will be speaking in the session 'Showing Up: The importance of being visible as an LGBTQ member and an ally'. Ahead of the conference and this year's Pride events, Julie has written the following blog highlighting why we must continue to support Pride to ensure our LGBT+ colleagues are supported and treated fairly.

Why am I the NPCC lead for LGBT+ when I'm straight?! I have never come out as straight. It is just not a thing. Hold onto that thought – how often do you think about disclosing you are heterosexual? I was out with friends recently and I was telling someone who I hardly knew that I was the LGBT+ national police lead. 'Why do you do that when you're straight?' was the reply. Why do I do that, why do I do that I thought?! Because when my husband and I walk down the street holding hands, no one bats an eye lid. When two women or two men walk down the street holding hands, then they may get looked at, pointed at, stared at, verbally abused or even physically attacked. And if you're Trans – you will be extra vigilant about being able to be you most days. A mixed sex couple would simply be assumed to be straight when either partner may be any sexual orientation. Many LGBT+ people have to consider very carefully in what environments they even choose to hold hands – it's an active decision – not something they do without even thinking. The sad part about this discussion was that the person I was talking to is a nurse - I didn't expect this kind of response. And when we continue to see the sickening reports of homophobic attacks such as those on Melania Geymonat and her partner Chris, it is quite clear there is a lot we need to do to educate people on what it's like to be LGBT+.

So that's why I, as a straight ally, will do everything I can to keep highlighting the inequalities and the real challenges that are there every day, for someone to go about their normal daily business, simply because they are LGBT+. It is so empowering when a person champions the rights of those groups to which they do not belong. I will champion all genders and all sexual orientations because I, as a straight ally, want to make policing a more attractive place to be for LGBT+ colleagues. I want my colleagues to understand that many of our colleagues will fall under the Trans umbrella and I want them to understand what that means - dispel myths, explore prejudices and make our workplaces more inclusive. I want our straight colleagues to understand the challenges of being LGBT+ and also the huge positives of LGBT+ people in our organisation - and if we achieve this, our workplaces and our communities will be better, more vibrant, more inclusive places and our communities, in turn, will get a better service from us.

So we are in the midst of Pride season. I have been an LGBT+ ally for many years – but if I look back some years and consider Pride, I never thought it was an event I should be at. Why? Because I'm not gay and I thought people would look at me thinking – 'why is she here'? I couldn't have been further from the truth and I feel much more enlightened now. So why is it important for me and other straight allies to be at Pride? So many reasons:  Our LGBT+ colleagues see that they have visible support and allies and that the organisation has the will to be inclusive  Attendance by senior officers and allies implies permission to be yourself  It shows that we want to listen and make things better – it supports and enhances good communication and dialogue  It educates and improves understanding of what it's like to be LGBT+  It shows our communities that as an organisation we are inclusive and it should attract more diversity in those who are applying to join us.

And why is it important for our LGBT+ colleagues to be at Pride?  By giving our support, it gives staff greater confidence to be out about who they are and to be themselves. So many people tell me that it took a long time for them to be out in work (and of course we have many colleagues who have still to come out). This gives visible support to those who may not be out yet.  We are supporting our staff to be part of their community and help us attract others to join us.  Because for many days throughout the year, perhaps they are unable to be themselves and this is their moment to celebrate being their true selves surrounded by like-minded people

Over the next few months there are Pride events going on every weekend. As Dan Ivey put in his Blog recently, thankfully there is no need for a straight Pride, but there is still a need for Pride. Firstly to celebrate just how far society has come regarding LGBT+ inclusion, but also to highlight how far we still need to go to improve understanding, knowledge, support, fairness and equality. This year is 50 years since the Stonewall riots, not that long ago.

So if you're considering asking the questions – 'Why all the rainbows? Why the Rainbow cars? Why the need to keeping banging the drum about Pride. Why do I need to be there – I'm not gay'. Please consider what it's like to be persecuted just because of the person you love or the person you are. People don't choose to be gay or Trans, it's just who they are. And like everyone else, they have the right to feel comfortable and confident in work as well as when they walk down the street. Your support will be gladly received.

Deputy Chief Constable Julie Cooke NPCC Lead for LGBT+

Latest Cheshire Appeals

Appeal after driver flees following a collision in Nantwich Officers are urging witnesses to come forward after a driver fled the scene following a collision in Nantwich.

At around 9am on Wednesday 19 June a red Volkswagen Touran was involved in a collision with a heavy goods vehicle near to the Cheerbrook roundabout on the A500. Following the incident the driver of the Touran got out of his vehicle and fled at speed in a light blue car which had stopped at the scene. He is described as an Asian man estimated to be in his 30s and around 5’ 8” tall. He had medium length hair and short facial hair and was wearing dark blue overalls. Enquires in relation to the incident are ongoing and officers want to speak to anyone who witnessed the collision or has any dashcam footage which may help the investigation. They are also appealing for anyone who thinks they may know the identity of the VW Tourer driver to get in touch.

PC Sadie Bowen said: “Thankfully no-one is believed to have been injured as a result of the incident but fleeing from the scene of a collision is a serious offence and we are committed to doing all that we can to trace the man who was driving the VW Tourer. As part of the investigation we are urging anyone who was in the area and witnessed the incident, or anything else that may aid our investigation, to come forward. The same goes for anyone who believes they may who was driving the VW Tourer. We would also like to hear from anyone with dashcam footage who was driving on the A500 between the Weston Gate roundabout and the Cheerbrook roundabout. They may have footage of the incident or of the man who was driving the VW Tourer fleeing the scene.”

Anyone with information or dashcam footage that may be relevant to the investigation should call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 432133. Alternatively you can submit information online via https://www.cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries . Dashcam footage can also be submitted online, at www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage .

Appeal following burglary incidents at a school and cricket club in the area Police investigating overnight burglary incidents at a school and a cricket club in the Frodsham area are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Kingsley St John’s CE Primary School on Hollow Lane and Alvanley Cricket Club on Frodsham Road were both broken into between around 6pm on Thursday 20 June and 7am on Friday 21 June. Nothing is believed to have been stolen from the school but items were stolen from the cricket club, including a quantity of cash that was in a charity box. Enquiries in relation to the incidents are ongoing and officers are urging anyone with any information or footage that may be relevant to their investigations to come forward.

Police Constable Matt Griffiths said: “We are keeping an open mind as to whether or not the two burglary incidents are linked. The school and the cricket club are quite close to each other, and with both incidents the offenders damaged the front door to gain entry to the premises. But that by no means proves that the same people are responsible for the two break-ins. Whoever broke into the school had a good look around the building but it appears that nothing has been stolen. The cricket club was not so lucky, with the offenders having callously stolen money from a charity box, as well as other items. They also broke a window at the premises. We are determined to catch those responsible for the burglary incidents and bring them to justice. Enquiries are ongoing and we are appealing for anyone who was near the school or the cricket club between around 6pm on Thursday 20 June and 7am on Friday 21 June and witnessed anything suspicious to get in touch. The same goes for anyone who believes they may have seen, or have CCTV or dashcam footage of, any of the offenders or have information regarding their identities.”

Anyone with information or CCTV footage that may help the investigations should call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 433857 for the school or IML 433850 for the cricket club, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Dashcam footage can be submitted online at www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and- vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage .

Appeal for information following pub burglary Detectives investigating a pub burglary in Wilmslow are appealing for information from the public.

At around 4.15am on Wednesday 12 June someone broke into the Wilmslow Tavern on Dean Row Road by forcing open a side door. Once inside the offender stole bottles of spirits, as well as a quantity of cash from inside a fruit machine. They left the premises at around 6.20am and walked towards the Summerfields village shopping centre car park. The offender had a medium build and was wearing a large dark coat with a fur-lined hood and camouflage trousers. They were carrying a large turquoise coloured shopping bag and had a large dark rucksack on their back.

Detective Constable Jade Bannerman said: “Our investigation is currently in its early stages and we are currently following a number of lines of enquiry. As part of this I am keen to hear from anyone who was in the area and witnessed the suspect breaking into or leaving the pub, or saw someone acting suspiciously near to the premises. The same goes for any motorists with a dashcam who were driving in the area around the time of the incident and believes that they may have footage of the offender. I urge anyone with any footage or information that may be relevant, no matter how small, to get in touch with the team here at Wilmslow.”

Anyone with information that may aid detectives with their investigation should call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 426121, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Dashcam footage can be submitted online at www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage .

Appeal for witnesses after stabbing in Crewe Officers from Crewe CID are appealing for witnesses to a stabbing in the town over the weekend.

The incident happened on Nantwich Road at around 3am on Sunday 16 June. The 29-year-old victim was walking along the road towards Salisbury Avenue when he was approached by three males. One of the males tried to engage him in conversation, which he ignored. The male then attacked him but began to be overpowered. At that point one of the other males also attacked the victim, stabbing him a number of times. The offenders then ran off towards Smallman Road. A short time later one of the males returned to Nantwich Road before running into Bedford Street. The victim received minor injuries as a result of the incident. He was taken to hospital via ambulance and has since been discharged. Three teenage boys from Crewe – two 14-year-olds and a 16-year-old – have been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm in relation to the incident.

Detective Sergeant Steve Smith said: “We are urging anyone who was in the area and witnessed the incident, or anything else that may aid our investigation, to get in touch. We are also appealing for any CCTV or dashcam footage that may be relevant to our investigation. This seems to have been an unprovoked attack and we are determined to establish who was responsible and make them face the consequences of their actions.”

Anyone with information or CCTV footage that may help the ongoing investigation should call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 429512. Alternatively you can submit information online via https://www.cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries. To submit dashcam footage visit www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage.

Appeal for witnesses following incident in Ellesmere Port Detectives are urging witnesses to come forward after a woman was threatened in a park in Ellesmere Port.

At around 9.45am on Sunday 16 June a woman was walking her dogs in Rivacre Valley Country Park when she saw a man exposing himself in a wooded area near to Rivacre Road. She challenged the man and told him to stop what he was doing, at which point he pulled a knife out of his pocket and began to walk towards her. The victim’s dogs then began barking at the offender and he ran away in the direction of the Water Tower. The man is described as white, approximately 28 to 32 years old and around 6’ tall. He had a slim build and a small amount of facial hair on his jaw and chin. The offender was wearing a long sleeved black hoody, with the hood up, as well as dark navy bottoms with a white stripe down each side and dark trainers.

Detective Sergeant Damien Tierney, of Ellesmere Port CID, said: "While the victim did not sustain any physical injuries, she has been left shaken up as a result of what happened. We take any incident of this nature extremely seriously and we are committed doing all that we can to trace the offender. Patrols have been increased in the area to actively target the man and to provide local residents with reassurance. We are advising members of the public to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to police immediately. I urge anyone who was in the area and witnessed the incident, or believes that they saw someone acting suspiciously in the Rivacre Valley Country Park area, to come forward. I also encourage anyone who may have information in relation to the identity of the offender to get in touch.”

Anyone with information that may aid detectives with their investigation should call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 429623, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Appeal following serious assault of a taxi driver in Detectives investigating a serious assault in Widnes are appealing for information and footage from members of the public.

Between 1.05am and 1.35am on Saturday 15 June a small group of people banged on the boot of a taxi in the smaller of the two Appleton Village car parks near to St Bede’s Catholic Men’s Club. At that point the driver of the taxi, a 59-year-old man from Widnes, got out of the vehicle. He was then assaulted by two males who were with a female. The group left him lying unconscious on the floor. The taxi driver awoke to discover that he had sustained facial injuries. He phoned for help and was subsequently taken to hospital via an ambulance. The serious facial injuries he sustained as a result of the attack require ongoing medical treatment. Enquiries in relation to the incident are ongoing and detectives are appealing for anyone who was in the area and witnessed the incident, or saw anything else that may aid their investigation, to get in touch. They also want to speak to anyone who believes they may have CCTV or dashcam footage of anyone involved in the incident.

Detective Inspector Ian Whiley, of Widnes Local Policing Unit, said: “This was a sickening and cowardly attack on a man who was simply trying to earn a living for his family. It has left him with serious facial injuries that require ongoing medical treatment and the unprovoked assault has left his family devastated – his children are extremely upset and cannot understand why anyone would attack their gentle dad. I would like to reassure the community that this appears to have been an isolated incident, we have stepped up patrols in the area and we are determined to establish who assaulted the victim and bring them to justice. Enquiries are ongoing and as part of our investigation we are appealing for anyone who believes they may have information or CCTV or dashcam footage regarding the incident to come forward.”

Anyone with information or CCTV footage that may help the investigation should call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 428532, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Dashcam footage can be submitted online at www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage .

Three males from Widnes have been arrested in relation to this incident. They have all been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

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