October 2012 (PC DC Beat Diary)

1st- Today I had a training day at Alton Maltings Centre. Parking was a nightmare! I will take the motorbike next time!
Quite a good days training with new PACE updates and a refresher on the Proceeds of crime act.

2nd- I took part in a drugs operation today. I was part of the team at Basingstoke conducting interviews and strip searches for possible drugs concealments.

3rd- I crewed with PC Ian Hoile to patrol Popley, Oakridge and Rooksdown. We stop searched a number of people suspected to be involved in drugs offences, however, no drugs found.

4th- Rest Day.

5th- Tonight had no redeeming features! A foul, miserable and wet night. I patrolled Popley, Oakridge and Winklebury with other SNT officers. Roll on summer.

6th- After yesterday’s rain it was very nice to patrol albeit very cold! ASB was low across the town.

7th- Tonight I crewed up with PC Karen Binney after her return from holiday! We patrolled Popley, Oakridge and Winklebury. I located 2 males with cannabis in Orkney Close. Karen and I issued each male with an £80 fixed penalty notice.

In other news: We attended and dispersed youths from the car park in Aspire Place. This underground car park is currently insecure and youths have been causing a nuisance to residents. ASB officers at Sentinel have been informed.

8th- I was feeling a little under the weather today, so I drove a panda for a change. All the usual areas were patrolled in Oakridge and Popley and it was a very quiet evening. Later I crewed with PC Rich Harrison and we patrolled Popley and Kempshot. We attended a number of addresses for welfare checks.

9th- Rest Day.

10th- Rest Day.

11th- Another washout in Basingstoke. I assisted PC Rich Harrison with an attempt break in Hatch Warren.

In other news: Overnight the Popley Fields Community Centre was broken into. Beers were stolen from the fridge. Entry was gained via the rear of the centre. New security measures are being implemented. If you have info on who is involved let me know! I would like that arrest very much!!

12th- This morning a chap handed himself in at Basingstoke police station on a ‘Fail to appear warrant’ I arrested him and he will attend court today.

13th- Rest Day.

14th- Lovely weather for a cycle… Except, as soon as I got in for work today, I was targeted by the shift Sgt to assist with a warrant. Later I would arrest a male on suspicion of burglary and handling stolen goods.
No cycling for me, but a pretty good day all the same.

15th- Rest Day.

16th- Rest Day.

17th- Tonight I crewed with PC Karen Binney to patrol Popley and Oakridge. The worst night of rain I have ever witnessed in Popley, plus a spot of lightning. Nothing of note to report.

In other news: I had a bit of warrant training today. I will hopefully put the training to good use shortly.

18th- Another miserable and unproductive night! Not for want of trying of course! The weather just kept the trouble at bay. I patrolled with PC Rich Harrison again.

In other news: I assisted PC Mark Gallagher with an arrest of a male on suspicion of theft.

19th- I crewed up with PC Rich Harrison for patrols of Popley, Oakridge and Buckskin. After 19:00 hours the rain had stopped and we were able to get some good miles in on the hotspot areas.

In other news: PC Chris Brindley is moving off the Popley East beat. Chris will now be the beat manager for Winklebury. PC Karen Binney will be joining the Oakridge team. This means that I will be the beat manager for the whole of Popley (gulp) a big challenge, but I’m sure with my sidekick Robin… I mean PCSO Addison Maker, we will give it our best shot.

20th- Rest Day.

21st- Rest Day.

22nd- Normal patrols today.

In other news: I did arrest a male up at Basingstoke Hospital for suspected traffic offences… The male was soon de-arrested after more thorough checks were made. One hand shake later, I was on my way. 🙂

Also: I dealt with a contentious land issue in Popley East. This will be resolved through solicitors..fingers crossed..

23rd- Many miles of patrolling Popley, Oakridge, Winklebury. Just when I was totally exhausted and on route back to the station, I located a male wanted on a warrant, and in possession of cannabis. I arrested the male.
Late off 😦 Special thanks to my stooge PC Ian Hoile, for booking the male into custody, whilst I completed the handover.

24th- More miles of great cycling through all the hotspot areas in Popley, Oakridge and Winklebury. Between the cycling there were many call ons/re-assurance visits throughout Popley.

In other news: There has been a series of copper pipe thefts in the Popley area in recent weeks. If you have information on the subject please call in on tel: 101.

Also: PCSO Addison Maker held an open meeting at the Popley Fields community centre to discuss the ‘No Ball Games’ signs. Issues surrounding ball games in these areas, on Abbey Road, are a current priority.

25th- Today PC Ian Hoile and I drove Half way to Cardiff to pick up two young people that thought it would be funny to run away!!
It’s not funny or indeed safe.

In other news: A member of public reported a suspicious vehicle, apparently dumped in Pershore Road. I have reported this to the council: FixMyStreet

26th- Rest Day.

27th- Rest Day.

28th- Rest Day.

29th- Rest Day.

30th- Rest Day.

31st- I crewed up with PCSO Addison Maker for horrid Halloween patrols of Popley! See you next month 🙂

In other news: There has been many thefts of copper pipes from the Popley area. (More Information)

PSNP Meeting 26th of September 2012

Members in attendance::

1) PC Dan Carter: (Chair) 🙂
2) PCSO Addison Maker
3) Mrs Southern (Resident)
4) Mr Stockley (Resident)
5) Terry Jones (Resident)
6) Nina Egg-Daborn (Sentinel Housing)
7) Dawn Stanley (Sentinel Housing)

PSNP members/apologies: Due to other commitments:

1) Jane Frankum
2) Paul Frankum
3) David Potter
4) Mr Kumar

Update on previous core priorities:

1) Drugs issues.. Drugs continue to feature on the radar in Popley and surrounding beats. The panel have once again voted this in as an issue to tackle.

2) Jersey Close/Guernsey Close garage breaks. The patrolling officers have been hitting this area hard at all times of day. Sentinel had warned the residents in the area via news letters. Some residents have secured their garages. There has been a significant drop in issues.

3) School trespassing… The team have been patrolling in and around the schools to ensure the safety of youths, and to prevent damage being caused to the schools. A number of youths have been located trespassing and letters have been sent home to parents.

The PSNP voted from a list of 5 current issues:

1) Fires being set in Carpenters Down Woods

2) Motorbike nuisance in Carpenters Down Woods

3) ASB involving ball games in Abbey Road in (No ball game areas).

4) Drugs issues.

5) ASB in Aspire Way and Sark Close.

The PSNP voted for the following 3 issues:

1) ASB involving ball games in Abbey Road in (No ball game areas).

2) Drugs issues.

3) ASB in Aspire Way and Sark Close.

These issues will be in place until the end of the year.

Other matters of note:

Mr Stockley informed the panel that there were many trucks passing through the area near to Everest Community College. There are sometimes many trucks per day. This is causing congestion near Oxford Way and the surrounding area. Plus there are speeding issues with Barrington/Appleton Drive.

Getting to know the PSNP (Phil Rapley)

Q) What is your current profession?
A) I am the Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) for Popley. I have been doing this role since 2006 and have been a part of the PSNP since it originated in 2007.

Q) How did you get the job?
A) After a career in Musical Instrument repairs I decided that I needed a new challenge. After some research I discovered the role of a PCSO and felt like I could really give something to this role. After various interviews, assessments and forms I completed my training at Police HQ before completing my tutorship in Whitchurch.

Q) Describe a typical day for you?
A) One of the best features about being a PCSO is that no two days are ever the same. Generally however I will start my shift by checking through what has occurred in Popley since I was last in the office. This is usually followed up by essential crime and Anti-Social behaviour enquiries. After this I kit up and cycle out to Popley where I spend the remainder of my shift tackling Anti-Social Behaviour, Meeting with multi-agencies, Offering crime prevention and re-assurance and dealing with our current Popley Priorities.

Q) What has been your most memorable experience in Popley?
A) Returning to Popley after a brief hiatus to cover the Basingstoke Rural SNT.

Q) What’s been your most embarrassing moment?
A) Falling off my Police Bike in front of some children I had just told to be careful on their bikes.

Q) What is your best quality?
A) My patience.

Q) What is your worst quality?
A) My attention can sometimes go away after a long training day.

Q) What makes you happy?
A) My Dog, My Family and Cheering on my favourite sports teams.

Q) If you could go back in time, where would you go?
A) there are too many to choose from. I would like to go back to May 1st 1994 at the San Marino GP. Somehow I would stop Ayrton Senna driving that F1 car.

Q) What would you spend a lottery win on?
A) I would buy myself and my parents a nice house, spend over a million pounds on a McLaren sports car and build a charity Dog shelter for unwanted Dogs in Hampshire.

Q) Tell us one thing about yourself that nobody else would know?
A) I have some involvment in the professional Wrestling business.

Youth Restorative Disposal

The Youth Restorative Disposal (YRD) is a measure that offers a quick and proportionate response to a young person’s low-level offending and allows victims to have a voice in how the offence is resolved.

It gives police officers and police community support officers on-the-spot discretion to hold to account young people who have committed certain minor offences. It is only possible to use a YRD for a first offence and both the victim and harmer must agree to participate.

Using restorative justice techniques, a young person has to face up to the impact of their offence, offer an apology and examine why the offence took place. Where appropriate, a plan is made for the young person to make good the wrong that was done in the offence.

By identifying young people on the cusp of further offending it allows youth offending teams (YOTs) to get support to them to help address their behaviour. The scheme will help reduce the number of young people entering the Criminal Justice System for low-level crimes. The YRD could also contribute to reducing the risk of reoffending.
Where a YRD is issued, it is recorded locally and not on the Police National Computer. It does not give the young person a criminal record. Police forces will inform their local YOT that a YRD has been issued. This provides an earlier opportunity for YOTs to act on first signs of risk of criminal activity.

The YOTs may follow up with a letter to the young person’s family offering voluntary parenting support or other appropriate intervention.
How the YRD works

Only young people between the ages of 10-17 who have not previously received a Reprimand, Final Warning, Caution or other disposal are eligible.

A young person may receive only one YRD.

Serious offences, are not eligible for a YRD.
The victim and offender both need to agree to participate in the YRD, which will be facilitated by an authorised officer trained in restorative justice techniques.

The process must be resolved within a reasonable time – on the street or shortly after.
The process could involve a meeting between the victim and offender, an apology and may include additional action to right the wrong caused.

The YOT is informed after the YRD is issued providing an opportunity to identify early risk factors and get the right agencies to step in with appropriate support to a young person.

The YRD will be recorded locally against the young person’s name to ensure that young people are not issued with a further YRD and to avoid disproportionate criminalisation that would result from being recorded on the Police Nation Computer.

December 2011 (PSNP) results

1st- CSPO Paula James-Bailey and CSPO Dan White have attended Marnel school in the last week. They both engaged with an assembly looking at bullying on the estate, and advice if it happens. A group discussion was also had, in relation to the wrongs of stealing.

Paula and Dan will visit other schools in the next week, to Provide more advice, to the youth of Popley.

2nd- I took part in Operation “Slipstream” along with my SNT colleagues. The Op is to prevent ASB and violent crime in the town centre, in the run-up to Xmas. There were 4 of us on bike in the town centre. A lot of people didn’t know quite, what to make of that. It’s not really the norm, however we have previously taken part in Op Slipstream with good success. The evening started very quiet with a few people dispersed from the town. Things got more exciting after midnight!

3rd- As I was taking part in Op Slipstream, I was still out patrolling until 04:00 hours. Drunk, abusive and violent people started getting arrested! Shift officers were busy as were we from the “Safer Neighbourhoods Team”.

PC Richard Heard (Oakridge Beat Manager) arrested a male as he failed to disperse from the town centre. Later he would arrest the same male on suspicion of possession of class A drugs.

I had a bizarre arrest. Whilst I was with colleagues, keeping the top of town safe, a male approached us. The male started shouting unprovoked racial abuse very loudly. I arrested the male on suspicion of a racially motivated public order offence. This sort of behaviour is outrageous, and totally unacceptable. When I got back to work later the same day, I was updated that the male had been charged and bailed to attend court.

I took part in Operation Slipstream again tonight with other Northern (SNT Officers). I was crewed up with PC Ian Hoile. We had a patrol of the newly decorated Mall. As we passed by the Tesco Metro we were flagged down by security. A male had been suspected of stealing food items in the store. A short while later I arrested a male on suspicion of theft after various food items were located on him. A packet of meat was located down his trousers! The male was later charged and bailed to attend court at a later date. Basingstoke town seemed more edgy tonight for some reason. My colleagues also made a number of arrests and located several amounts of cannabis. Pretty successful weekend for Op Slipstream and the Northern SNT lead by Sgt Paul Markham.

In other news: I was made aware of a public order incident at the Popinjay Public House. In relation to the incident, PC Richard Heard arrested two people on suspicion of public order offences.

4th- Another typical Sunday, QUIET! Or (Q) as we like to say in the Police. For as long as I can remember, if a police officer said “It’s Quiet” this would be met with gasps and looks of horror from other officers. Presumably saying the Q word would jinx your duty and you would be overly busy! I prefer the busy days! Whilst I’m on the subject of peculiar Police behaviour… We use words such as “earlies” and “lates” to describe our hours of work. Both made up words! Don’t get me started on Police radio speak!!! Ok I’ve started. If we are thanking someone over the radio we say “many thanks” or “much obliged”. How many thanks are we talking here? If we are saying NO we say “answer no”. If we are asking how long will it will take for something or someone, we say “what’s your ETA” (estimated time of arrival) Could you imagine asking your partner “what’s the ETA for tea?”. If we want to talk to someone else over the radio, we have to ask permission. Something like this.. “Charlie One from Bravo Bravo 13 Alpha, can I have talk through please” “Go ahead 13 Alpha” “Bravo Bravo 13 Alpha to Bravo Bravo 14 Alpha” “14 Alpha go ahead” “Do you fancy meeting up for a brew” “Answer yes” “Thanks Charlie One talk through out” “That’s received 13 Alpha” (that was an example, and not a snap shot of my usual day)

Popley was pretty Q tonight.

In other news: I assisted shift officers with a very drunk female who had been arrested for being drunk and incapable. This type of arrest is used to protect the person from harm more than anything else. The female had been found collapsed in a car park in town. A number of hours later, she was safe/sober enough to be de-arrested, and driven home.

5th- Lately, there has been several reports of ASB in and around Appleton Drive in Marnel Park. Today, I attended an address in Appleton Drive with Dawn Stanley and Pete Trafford of Sentinel Housing. It is hoped that the residents at the address we heed our advice and the ASB will stop.

At around 5pm I, along with other officers conducted searches in Popley East. It was reported that a young female had been approached by one of two unknown males, in a dark coloured vehicle. The female managed to get home safely and inform her mother. Inevitably incidents like this will worry parents. We would urge anyone with any relevant information to come forward. The officer dealing with the case is PC Steve Smith, formally a PCSO for the area of Popley. (Contact Details).
Other work is being conducted, and the family are in contact with us. (Hants Police Appeal)

After I had completed a good area search, I was called to attend Guernsey Close. A few residents had reported a group of female youths, causing ASB. I located the loud and obnoxious group and took details for social services and to update parents. I verbally warned them and dispersed them. Later, shift officers were called back to the area as the females had retuned! Follow up work is being conducted by the Popley team.

In other news: the salters/grifters were out earlier. Has winter started?!

I was asked a few days ago, what a YRD was! (The explanation).

6th- I crewed up with PC Richard Heard for Operation Nemesis patrols tonight. This operation is about preventing and detecting burglaries. We mainly focused on Oakridge and Popley. We stop searched a number of people on suspicion of drugs offences, however no drugs today! When we stop search a person, we have to give a reason. We can’t just stop search someone based on appearance unless that appearance matched a suspect. Grounds for searching a person for drugs might be that the person is in a known area of drug misuse, and smells of cannabis etc. Basically no fishing trips! We also explain to the person why they are being searched and under what search power. Eg. Section 23 of the misuse of drugs act. We also offer the subject a copy of the search form, although they don’t have to accept the form. Read my blog on (Stop Searches)

It was a cold, windy, and horrible night but apart from that all was well.

In other news: PCSO Phil Rapley gives us an insight into his life (Getting to know Phil Rapley).

7th- CSPO Paula James-Bailey attended Marnel Schools to offer more advice on bullying, and where to get help.

8th- Safer Neighbourhoods Officers are once again taking part in #OpSlipstream over the weekend. Live updates will be available via twitter.

In other News. PCSO Sarah Danks, has left the Popley Team, and indeed Hampshire Police. Sarah has decided to move back up North. No news on a replacement for her, as yet. PCSO Phil Rapley will be working even harder than usual, for a while, to cover jobs.

In other news: CSPO Paula James Bailey took part in a “young carers group meeting”

9th- I, along with other Safer Neighbourhoods Officers took part, once again, in Operation “Slipstream” This time however, was the first BasingstokeCops “live time” Operation tweetathon. The theme of the night appeared to be drunk people getting dispersed from the town! The night started slow like last week. As people drunk more alcohol, so did the incidents of drunken ASB increase. Makes sense I suppose! I arrested a male for failing to disperse and section 5 public order. The male had called Sgt Paul Markham and I “Perverts” as we cycled past him on London Street. Obviously that was out of order, and due to this, and the fact the male was drunk and swearing, I decided to disperse him. Unfortunetly the male couldn’t behave after several warnings, and he was arrested. The male gets to sleep at the Basingstoke Police hotel, free of charge, and he will be interviewed in the morning. *update* The male was very apologetic in the morning and accepted an £80 fixed penalty. Not so free of charge after all! I also dispersed several other males from the town, for poor behaviour. PC Karen Binney, arrested a male on suspicion of criminal damage, after a window at the “Santuary Bar” was broken.

The “live time” tweets continue for round two of Operation Slipstream.

10th- What a busy weekend! The live tweets continued for Op Slipstream. It was slow going to start with, but things hotted up around midnight. I arrested a male on suspicion of possession of a class A drug. Doormen at a club at the top of town had detained a male with white powder. I attended the club, and arrested the male. When I had booked the male into custody, I tested the drug. See! I knew that “EDIT” (Examination Drug Identification Test) course would come in handy! Anyway the drug tested positive for cocaine. During interview the male admitted the offence. The male received an adult caution. These can be given to people only once, and only those with previous good character. The drug was booked into the drug safe for destruction. (Drugs information and advice) PC Rich Heard and PC Karen Binney, both arrested males for failing to disperse from the town centre. The section 27 VCRA (Violent Crime Reduction Act) dispersals give the drunk, and often abusive person, the opportunity to leave the town without being arrested. Unfortunately, some people are destined for the 4 walls of a small cell, and uncomfortable mattress therein! Think gym matt, and your on the right lines. The cells do have toilets however, but due to health and safety there are no toilet seats. I imagine the metal toilets get chilly this time of year.

A drunken reveller gave us the quote of the night calling us

“Feds On Peds”

In other news: The monthly beat surgery at the Popley Fields Community Centre was tonight between 19:00 hours to 20:00 hours. Nobody showed up! PCSO Phil Rapley does know his stuff, so please feel free to attend any of the monthly beat surgeries in 2012 to chew the fat.

11th- Another rainy Sunday. I caught up with all my paperwork. Arresting people creates lots of forms and processes. I’m surprised it hasn’t put me off!

In other news: You may have noticed that I have been committed with alot-of “Slipstream” operations lately? Don’t worry I haven’t deserted Popley. It’s only for December weekends.

12th- PCSO Phil Rapley attended Marnel Infants school today, to collect the competition drawings. We asked the kids if they would draw us a Police vehicle especially adapted for the winter. Safety should be an important part of the design. The winners will be announced in a few days time.

In other news: If you look back to the 5th: there had been a suspicion incident reported to the Police. The Popley Team are continuing to offer reassurance and high visibility patrols. PCSO Phil Rapley was out today, patrolling the Marnel infants and junior schools, at closing time.

CSPO Paula James Bailey attended Merton School for a Xmas lunch with the children.

13th- I have set up a new blog from the Main PSNP website titled (All Things Popley). Take a look and let me know what you think. It’s work in progress.

14th- I assisted PC Rich Heard and other officers with an arrest in Oakridge. The male was wanted on an out of force warrant.

In other news: I attended Marnel Infants school with PC Chris Brindley today. We gave prizes to the top three kids for a drawing competition. The top prize was a £10 book token and police stickers. The second and third prizes were £5 plus police stickers. (Check out the winners)

15th- I was invited to the Melrose Community Centre Xmas party (Photos). Great event with very nice people. The kids from Merton Junior School also attended to sing carols!

Later I patrolled the current PSNP hotspots with Sgt Paul Markham and PC Karen Binney. I also patrolled Oxford Way after several reports of ASB in the area. Everything was calm today.

In other news: I attended the Fast Fare store on Abbey Road after staff had located a packet of white powder on the floor. I believe the drug is: (Amphetamine). I seized the drug for destruction.

16th- In the afternoon I patrolled Popley and Rooksdown with PC Ian Hoile. It was very cold and very quiet.

I had been looking forward to Operation Slipstream again! The night didn’t disappoint. My crewmate for the Op was PC Ian Hoile. It was quiet, as it often is until about 11pm. Whilst we were patrolling Wote Street, at the top of town, I spied our friend from the 3rd of December; The male that I had arrested for the racially aggravated public order incident. Thankfully he was calm tonight. Unfortunately however, he had breached his bail conditions by entering Basingstoke Town Centre. I arrested the male. Once at Basingstoke Police station he became verbally abusive once more, and urinated in the holding cell. Luckily for the male Sgt Elliot Howarth was in charge in custody. Sgt Howarth, always level headed, gave the male two choices 1) leave the mess and get arrested for criminal damage 2) Mop it up and call it quits. Sensibly the male got mopping. After I had booked the male in, I completed the various paperwork maze.

Whilst I was battleing through a mountain of paperwork, I heard PC Jim Charlton (Also on the Op) on the Police radio. By the sounds of things he had arrested a very drunk, and abusive female from outside “Pure Bar”. The shouting and swearing continued until the female was in her room for the night. Jim later told me that the female had kicked over a Police bike, spat at Ian and called them various expletives. Jim is a nice guy and just arrested the female for being drunk and disorderly! Jim was then tucked up with completing the “Handover File”. This file is created with as much evidence as possible in order for an early turn officer to interview the suspect. In this case probably a fixed penalty notice without interview, but I won’t know until tomorrow.

No sooner than I could feel my feet again, it was time to go back out and brave the cold. People had drunk enough by now to justify swearing at me! I was very close to arresting an obnoxious female however I gave her a chance to move on. A short while later more swearing but from a male this time. The male had been loudly shouting and swearing for no apparent reason, on Winchester Street. I utilised section 27 of the Violent Crime Reduction Act and the male was dispersed from the town for 48 hours. I shall be on the lookout for him tomorrow!

17th- Another strong performance from the Op Slipstream Team tonight. 3 arrests, several dispersals and copious amounts of coffee and cake! Whilst we are on the subject of cake…everywhere you turn in the Police Station, there seems to be a pile of chocolate covered saturated fat! Tastes great though. As I suspected, my friend from last night failed to comply with the 48 hour dispersal. I located him in London Street, drunk and fairly abusive. I arrested the male and booked him into custody. Read my blog on the below attachment to get a feel of what I went through. Lots of paperwork followed. Whilst I was in custody, PC Richard Heard arrested a male on suspicion of assault, in the town centre. A female had been punched for no apparent reason. Rich completed a handover file for an officer to carry on the investigation in the morning.

Only one more Op Slipstream to go in 2011. Stay tuned for the 23rd of December, when I will tweet live, the antics of the Slipstream Dream Team!

In other news: People often ask me, what happens when you get arrested?. This is my reply (Justice)

18th- Read my blog: “A day in the life of a Basingstoke beat officer”

19th- I attended Alton Malting’s Centre today for the 1st of three training days. “SNT Excellence Course” PC Ray Niblock gave a presentation on Safety Net or NMS and various other updates. Good input from an ex beat bobby.

20th- Day two of training. Good day with a spot of web based media training. I think I’m a bit ahead of the pack in this respect but I am keen to learn more ways to engage.

In other news: I have created a new website for Sgt Paul Markham’s signature. This has links to all the northern beat teams. (Site)

21st- last day of the course today. We were joined by several, Basingstoke CSPO’s. (Community Safety Patrolling Officers) some good group activities, discussions. PC Dave Woods gave a presentation on “persistent closure orders” Dave was charismatic and confident as always.

In other news: I attended a Neighbourhood Watch/Social Meeting tonight in Speckled Wood Road. Fantastic group of people. The NHW coordinator for the street had organised a social gathering with drinks and buffet! Can’t be bad!

22nd- I crewed up with PC Rich Heard to patrol Oakridge. We never actually made it into Popley as planned. We located 2 males smoking cannabis in Silvester Road. Both the chaps were eligible for cannabis cautions. The drugs were seized for destruction.

23rd- I crewed up with PCSO Phil Rapley and PCSO Strauss to conduct patrols in Popley. I stop checked a male after he had cycled away from me at speed. The male was wanted. I arrested the male is suspicion of misuse of the telecommunications act. The male was later released without charge.

Later I took part in the last Op Slipstream of the year! In my humble opinion it has been one of SNT’s most successful operations. Many arrests and various other offences tacked. Read my blog for an update on (Operation Slipstream)

28th- I crewed up with PC John Goddard in the “Crime Car” We toured the rural areas surrounding Basingstoke. All in order today.

30th- Tonight I patrolled Popley and Oakridge and all was Q! PC Ian Hoile had a puncture: (Photo)

In other news: I also attended Appleton Drive and spoke to a resident about on-going ASB. Plans are in hand to deal with the issues. I will attend the PSCG or “Problem Solving Core Group” in January to update all agencies with the issues raised by residents. The area is patrolled by Police, PCSO’s and CSPO’s on a daily basis.

31st- Take a look at my beat blogs for December: (Beat Blogs 1-6) I intend to do a “New Years Eve” blog, but this will depend on how interesting the night is.

My pro-active work for 2011: (Arrests/Cautions etc)

Have a great night and a happy new year folks.

Getting to know the PSNP (Arthur Botham)

Q) What is your current profession?
A) I am the vicar of St Gabriel’s Church in Tewkesbury Close.

Q) How did you get the job?
A) God called me and he got me through the interviews.

Q) Describe a typical day for you?
A) No such thing as a typical day for a vicar – which I love, but always
Morning Prayer in church at 0900 and prayer at night before bed.

Q) What has been your most memorable experience in Popley?
A) Meeting the very many amazing people that live here.

Q) What’s been your most embarrassing moment?
A) Having a go on a child’s scooter and falling off it! Ouch!

Q) What is your best quality?
A) My sense of humour.

Q) What is your worst quality?
A) Wanting to do more than I can.

Q) What makes you happy?
A) People in all their shapes, sizes and situations.

Q) If you could go back in time, where would you go?
A) That first Easter morning 2011 years ago.

Q) What would you spend a lottery win on?
A) Loadsa stuff! But mostly I think I would give it away – you really can
have too much of a good thing. Freddie Mercury of Queen said that in
spite of all his riches he was the loneliest man on earth! + I wouldn’t
want the responsibility.

Q) Tell us one thing about yourself that nobody else would know?
A) I ran a mobile disco for fifteen years in the UK, Germany and Cyprus.

Acceptable Behaviour Contracts

An ABC as they are known is not a legally binding arrangement, like an ASBO. So it is a bit misleading calling them Acceptable Behaviour Contracts. In more recent times I have tended to use the term Acceptable Behaviour Agreement. (ABA)
Youths are mainly placed on an ABC with parents consent and cooperation from the youth. (ABC’s are not strictly for youths and can also be used for adults) The ABC would have come about after evidence of Anti Social Behaviour from Police, Wardens, Housing Associations, Community Safety Patrolling Officers, public etc. Any one of the agencies can refer a person and then depending on the evidence, an ASB coordinator from the council will arrange a meeting, and the setting up of the ABC. The ABC will have various conditions for the youth/person, to follow. Some examples of conditions used in Popley are: Not to loiter outside shopping parades or enter specific shops, not to be out past 10pm, not to use abusive language, etc. If the youth/person does any of the things that they have agreed not to then they will be breached. The ABC or ABA works on a traffic light scale. All youths/people start with Amber. If they improve after 3 months they go to a green if not they go to a red. A second review after 6 months will be undertaken. Depending on the result of this will depend whether the youth/person comes off the ABC or stays on. If you refuse to sign up to an ABC then this can be used as evidence to fast track for an ASBO if applicable. Each ABC is catered to the individual and help, and or support is offered by the multi-agencies, along the way.

Getting to know the PSNP (Dan Carter)

Q) What is your current profession?
A) I am the Safer Neighbourhoods Team Manager, for Popley West. I am also the founding member of the PSNP.

Q) How did you get the job?
A) I have always been interested in the Police, and with a little push from my Mother I applied… The rest is history. I will say though, the interview for the Police was the single most nerve racking thing I have ever done!

Q) Describe a typical day for you?
A) I start the day with a coffee. I then review the latest intel and jobs on my beat (Popley) once I’m up to speed, I will kit up and head out on high visibility patrols, on mountain bike. I patrol the areas that need the most attention. I try to get a good balance between community engagement, and proactive work. There is no magic formula for community policing, but it definitely helps if you enjoy your work.

Q) What has been your most memorable experience in Popley?
A) There are so many! I know it sounds cheesy but it has to be all the great people I have met during my tours. I have made some really good friends in Popley.

Q) What’s been your most embarrassing moment?
A) I think it has to be, coming off my bike whilst following a missing child. There were lots of people watching 😦

Q) What is your best quality?
A) Keeping calm under pressure.

Q) What is your worst quality?
A) Denying I have any bad qualities.

Q) What makes you happy?
A) In a work context I would say helping those in need. In a personal context it has to be gadgets.

Q) If you could go back in time, where would you go?
A) I would go back to school and try harder. I think I must have disappointed many teachers.

Q) What would you spend a lottery win on?
A) As a big fan of the internal combustion engine I would have a fleet of exotic sports cars and motorbikes. Especially this one (Tomahawk).

Q) Tell us one thing about yourself that nobody else would know?
A) I once had a spice girls poster on my bedroom wall!! Please don’t tell anyone.

Popley Matters (Christmas Article)

Dear Popley residents,

The “Popley Team” have been working hard to keep Popley safe. November was a busy but exciting month for us. There has been a recent shift with the CSPO’s (Community Safety Patrolling Officers). David Mason has moved to the South Ham area. Dan White and Paula James-Bailey have now joined the Popley Team. I am sorry to see Dave leave, however I’m really happy that Dan and Paula have arrived.

On the 1st of November I had an unexpected surprise, when an American author and journalist, crewed up with me to patrol Popley! Peter Moskos, is a former Police officer from Baltimore. To find out more about Peter, please visit his website: http://petermoskos.com/

Also in early November, I received “drug training” at Police training college. This training will allow me to test for class A drugs without the need to send them off for analysis.

Once again, the “Popley Fields Community Centre” has been broken into and cans of drink were stolen. I cannot believe that a community centre that gives so much to the community, is once again a target.

As you may already be aware, the Popley Team are all members of the PSNP (Popley Safer Neighbourhoods Panel) The panel formed in 2007 to vote on, and tackle long term community issues. The PSNP have a website, a twitter site and a regular blog that I update in a timely fashion. I think it is important to be transparent and also provide information to the community on our work.

Please visit our website: http://psnp.zapd.net/

Please follow us on twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/PopleySNP
you can also type, PopleySNP, into google and you should be able to find us. For those of you that don’t know what twitter is… twitter is an easy way to share with you, anything relevant to Popley, and our work. I am able to post stories/links/photo’s/ etc in live time. If you follow the PopleySNP on twitter, you will recieve all the latest information! Get involved if you can.

I hope you all have a great Christmas this year. To ensure you have the best chance, I would suggest a few things. If you are going out, or on holiday, try and leave some lights on in your address. Perhaps a timer. Ask your neighbour(s) to keep an eye on your property. Ask a friend to visit your address and open and close curtains to make it look like someone is staying at the address. Don’t leave presents or an valuables on display at your address. This also applies to your vehicles. The Popley Team will be patrolling over the Christmas period as always. If you see us then please stop us and say hello.

I have noticed alot of graffiti in Popley East lately. There is a regular theme, and the tag that looks like a stylised dinosaur. I would be interested to find out who is responsible. Get in touch if you know the artist! call 101

In other news: I have been invited to the Melrose Hall, Christmas party this year. I look forward to good food, great company and ridiculous hats!

If you would like any information on our work, or you would be interested in joining the PSNP then please get in contact with me direct: daniel.carter.20686@hampshire.pnn.police.uk

The PSNP wish you all a safe and happy Xmas

November 2011 (PSNP) results

1st- What a great start to November!
Firstly I met with CSPO Dan White, to discuss current beat issues. Dan is one of the new Community Safety Patrolling Officers for Popley. Dan’s office is over the Road, at the Basingstoke council.

Later, I met author, Peter Moskos at Basingstoke Police Station. Peter is currently staying at Bramshill Police College, as part of a foreign exchange program. Peter was very interested in our role, and the differences between his old Police Force, and Hants Police. Follow the link to visit Peters website.
(Peters Website) Peter came out on bike patrols. We were also joined by Special Constable Stefan Davis. A good few miles were covered, however, all was quiet in Popley and Oakridge. Peter gave me a signed copy of his book “COP IN THE HOOD” I will have a good read on rest days!

2nd- I crewed with SC Stefan Davis again today. We both attended the “Sentinel Housing Association Offices”, On Kingsclere Road in order to discuss a neighbour dispute. Later, we patrolled the current core priority areas for Popley, however, all was quiet today.

3rd- I started the day with a nice drive over to Training HQ, Netley. I am now “EDIT” trained! This stands for Examination Drug Identification Test. I had requested the course, as we often seize drugs on the beat. The drug we normally seize is cannabis, sometimes known as “skunk” as you can imagine, it is rather pungent. We also seize cocaine but more often, we seize amphetamines. This can be off white, or yellowish and smells quite chemically. After a nice lunch, I drove back to Basingstoke. I crewed up with PCSO Richard Strauss, and we patrolled Popley, and Oakridge together.

Later, I spoke to Tracey, the manager of the Popley Fields Community Centre. Tracey, informed me that there had been a theft of cans of drink. The Perspex fridge had been broken into, and cans along with a green bin had been stolen. It appears that the back door of the community centre, may have been left open to accommodate the theft.
Call 101 if you have any details of who may be responsible.

In other news: PCSO Sarah Danks and PCSO Phil Rapley, gave a “Stay safe presentation” to the kids at Merton Junior School.

5th- I crewed up with PC Stefan Davis, to patrol Popley, and Oakridge. The night was very quiet, with few reports of ASB. Not bad for bonfire night. I did however arrest a male in Oakridge, on suspicion of three offences. (common assault, possession of an offensive weapon and violence to secure entry) The male was later released without charge.

CSPO Paul Bowman went on joint patrol with Hampshire Fire and Rescue, on a fire truck. All the Popley hotspots were covered. Paul gave advice on Anti Social Behaviour, linked with fire and fireworks.

Paul has also recently finished an EVA, or environmental visual audit of Popley East. These audits can help focus on issues in an area, such as graffiti or fly tipping. A further EVA can be conducted later, to see the difference, after work has been conducted.

In other news: The Speckledwood Road NHW scheme had a great community night. A whole group worked on Saturday, cooking food, building a bonfire, and getting the fireworks ready.
Then a number or residents got together Sunday morning and spent hours tidying up the field. It’s nice when the community can get together and act responsibly, whilst still having fun.

6th- I crewed with PCSO Stefan Davis again today! I must be popular. Whilst on-route to Popley we stop searched a male who smelt of cannabis. Cannabis and a cannabis grinder were located. The male received a cannabis street warning. We then conducted some hi-vis patrols in Oakridge and popley. Later we attended an address in Popley and took two statements in relation to a fraud case. The radio was very quite tonight for Popley and Oakridge. Only one reported incident of ASB: Kids were throwing stones in the area of Pershore Road.

We have also continued to patrol the current core priorities: 1) Anti Social Behaviour – Tesco Express (Carpenters Down)
2) Drugs issues (Pitcairn Close)
3) ASB (Shakespeare Road)

7th- I crewed up with Special Constable Stefan Davis again today. I admire his enthusiasm! There were a few incidents in Popley, however, very few ASB reports. I assisted PC Richard Heard with an injured person, up at Basingstoke Hospital..

Whilst Patrolling Popley East I noted various graffiti Not a banksy as a follower of the PSNP, on twitter commented! I am keen to meet the person responsible, to discuss a few issues, that I have with the art! I have reported the graffiti to the council via (fix my street)

In other news: the dates of the beat surgeries in 2012, have been posted (Have your say)

8th- PCSO Phil Rapley attended Marnel Infants School. Phil gave a talk on “what the police/PCSO’s do for the community” This was also an opportunity for the kids to try on the clothing, and equipment of the Hampshire police. In relation to the event, Head Teacher Bernadette Cole stated

“The feedback from the staff was really good and the children got a-lot out of it”

10th- Back to work on an early. I started the day with a nice coffee, and I caught up with Popley jobs, for the last two days. A short while later, I crewed up with PC Ian Hoile. Ian and I patrolled Rooksdown for a bit, before I returned to Popley.

I attended the Melrose Hall community centre for the weekly coffee morning. (more info) The residents and I put the world to rights.

CSPO Paul Bowman contacted me. Paul told me that there was evidence, that youths are continuing to smoke cannabis, at the youth shelter. The team will continue to patrol this area, and be robust with offenders.

The radio was fairly quiet all day. After lunch however, PC Ian Hoile and I assisted with an area search, for a missing person in Winklebury. We found the (mis-per) all safe and well.

11th- I joined other officers and staff from Basingstoke Police Station today for the two minute silence. As part of (armistice day) we attended the (war memorial) by Basingstoke and Dean Borough Council. Later I crewed with PC Jim Charlton and PC Karen Binney to patrol the Popley hot spots and Chineham.
PC Karen Binney and I then cycled up-to Winklebury and joined PCSO Patching. Karen and Keith had their first (street meeting) together. My last job of the day was an area search, for a suspect in Winchester Road. Lots of miles cycled today!

In other news: I sponsored PCSO Keith Patching for (movember). Keith has been growing his moustache for a week! I had joked

“So when are you going to start”

12th- I started the day by typing the Popley Matters (Christmas Article) I know it’s a tad early. We need to get the articles in early for the Popley Matters paper, so they can be put together, and sent to the printers in time.

Later I patrolled Popley, Oakridge, Winklebury and South Ham. There wasn’t much going on in Popley. I did however locate a car on Abbey Road with a familiar and pungent smell seeping from the window. A male ran from the car and was soon located, and stop searched. The driver of the car received a cannabis street warning after a small amount of cannabis was located in the car.

On route back to Basingstoke Police Station, Karen and I heard on the radio, that a male had been detained in Sainsbury’s, for shop lifting. Karen dealt with the offender in a proportionate manner. The male will attend Basingstoke Police Station at a later date, for a reprimand.
All the Popley hotspots were patrolled.

13th- Like most Sundays it was quite today. It was good to see the band and marchers down London Road though, for the remembrance parade. PC Karen BINNEY and I had a foot patrol of the town centre. A street cleaner informed us that he was concerned for a male sleeping rough under a bridge. We located the male and checked if he was safe and well. The male was fine and informed us that he intended to return home today.

In other news: The (PSNP) website front page got a make-over today. I hope you like the calming blue hues!

14th- I completed my own question and answer session: (getting to know the PSNP).

15th- CSPO Paul Bowman patrolled Carpenters down today. He noticed signs of a fire up at the free running site. This was not there the day before, so this has been done overnight. The fire had consisted mainly of books. Paul has reported this to the street cleaning team.

Paul stated:

“There has been a recent number of fires in this area, and with the colder months coming up I can imagine there will be a few more.”

The Popley Team will keep patrolling the area to identify those responsible.

16th- A new member has joined the PSNP Today. We now have 35 members. This is great. Hopefully more residents will get involved next year.

I crewed up with PC Karen Binney again today, for Patrols in the North of Basingstoke. We patrolled Popley and removed some youths from the roof of the Barbican Pub.

Karen arrested a male in Winklebury on suspicion of burglary. This was as part of an out of force request.

Karen and I stop searched a group of males in Pitcairn Close (current PSNP priority) Cannabis had been smelt in the area. We didn’t find any drugs during our search.

On our way back into the station we travelled along Melrose Walk. To my surprise, at nearly 4 in the morning, I located a male smoking cannabis. The drugs were seized and the male was reported for summons.

17th- My first jobs of the day were to complete two files. Firstly I completed the summons file for the early morning cannabis smoker. I then completed a Narey file. Or first hearing file. I crewed up with PC Karen Binney again after that. I issued a verbal warning to a female in Abbey Road after a dispute at one of the shops. Later I attended an abandoned address in Popley East, after reports that kids have entered the address. On-going work is being conducted in relation to the address.

In other news: PCSO Phil Rapley attended an ABC meeting or an “acceptable behaviour contract” meeting. (What is an ABC?)

18th- CSPO Paul Bowman attended Marnel Infants to speak to one of the teachers. Paul discussed various upcoming events, such as a disco and tag rugby. More details to follow.

Later I crewed up with CSPO Paul Bowman and CSPO Dan White. We conducted patrols of Popley East, and Popley West.

We assisted shift officers who were dealing with an assault in Popley West. PC Chris Brindley was also out patrolling in Popley with PC Karen Binney.

A member of public reported a rowdy group of youths in Pitcairn Close. I located the group. Apart from being noisy, the group were fairly decent.. Alcohol was seized from one youth.
We also dispersed a group of youths who were congregating around the Popley Fields Community Centre. There has been recent damage reports at the site.

A fairly average friday night.

19th- I have been informed via twitter, of some criminal damage overnight, in Pitcairn Close. (twitter info) We will attempt to identify those involved and we will continue to patrol the area as often as possible.

PSNP member Arthur Botham completed a question and answers blog (great stuff).

20th- I have received new membership certificates today hot off the press. These will be sent out shortly to new members: (twitter update). Any established PSNP member wishing to receive a new certificate, please email me the request.

In other news: PC James Charlton (Chineham SNT) located a male smoking cannabis (more info)

21st- I attended Marnel Infants today to collect some great artwork from the kids. The art was a thank-you to PCSO Sarah Danks and PCSO Phil Rapley, for attending the school on the 8th of November. I have added one of the drawings to the PSNP gallery.

I also crewed up with PC Phil Chalk in an area car to conduct pro-active patrols of South Ham. Nothing exciting happened during our patrols.

In other news: CSPO Paula James-Bailey met me at Basingstoke Police Station. Paula delivered another three applications from residents applying to join the PSNP. This is great news. Paula is doing a fab job getting in and amongst the Popley residents. The three applications have been accepted to the ever growing (PSNP members) team.

22nd- Caroline Hams (Education Welfare Officer) asked me to do a joint truancy patrol. Although Everest Community Academy has a very good attendance rate they are keen to crack down on truancy. We worked from a list of non-attendees and called on their addresses. It is hoped that parents/children will see how important education is, as well as sending out a message to kids, thinking of bunking off school.

Later I crewed up with PC Ian Hoile to patrol Popley and Rooksdown. Whilst patrolling Shakespeare Rd (current PSNP priority) I noted that Sentinel Housing had boarded up an area of known drugs misuse (bin shed).
The area is next to the shops on Shakespeare Road. Thanks to Sentinel for solving the short term issue. We will work together to resolve the longer term issues.

I spoke to Dawn Stanley of Sentinel housing, for a little catch up. Sentinel have agreed to sponsor a Christmas Drawing Competition at Marnel Infants School. (Competition Poster).

In other news: All the Popley CSPO’s were out on patrol in Popley. It was quiet in Popley and generally quiet on the Police radio.

23rd- I started at 13:00 hours today. After a coffee, I cycled into Popley.

I delivered the Xmas competition posters to Marnel Infants School.

I then patrolled the current core priority areas. I cycled many miles but I didn’t see many people.

24th- PCSO Sarah Danks attended Merton Infants School today and gave a presentation on “Stranger Danger” and “Road Safety”

I conducted patrols throughout Popley including the hotspot areas. I also patrolled Bermuda Close after a report of ASB in the area. (Twitter report) All was quiet.

I attended the youth shelter on Carpenters Down. The area is still being used to smoke drugs. I located a group of youths aged between 12 to 17. There was a lit cannabis spliff amongst the group, but no takers! The youths denied any knowledge of the drug. Social services will be notified of the incident, and all of the youths details. The cannabis spliff was seized for destruction.

In other news: Later, I received a new delivery of PSNP badges. All PSNP members will receive a badge in due course.

The graffiti on the underpass on Carpenters Down has been cleaned off (More info)

26th- Today I met with other members of the PSNP to take part in the “Big Popley Pick” (More info + photo).
This is the first community litter pick event organised by Councillor Shelley Phelps, of the PSNP. It is hoped that this will be an annual event. (Spoils of war).

Dawn Stanley of Sentinel Housing also helped out on the day. Dawn showed us around “Aspire Place” In the new build, behind Shetland Road: (More info).

In other news: one of the residents who attended today’s event, was also interested in joining the PSNP. Watch this space.

28th- I attended a training day at Odiham. Some great topics and a pretty good day!

In other news: CSPO Dan White has had a very busy month as follows:

Anti-Social-Behaviour at Tesco Express, Carpenters Down

I have been making high visibility regular patrols on foot, bike and vehicle.
Reassurance visits made to shops, no particular incidents of note to report.
Spoke to a few groups outside the parade, not causing any problems at time of attendance. However In the last week I have noticed that a group is regularly hanging around directly outside the doors to Tesco. The group mainly consists of males aged 14-17. The group has dispersed from the area on two occasions shortly after my arrival. Updates on NMS as appropriate.

Drug related issues, Pitcairn Close

Regular patrols of area, however no problems to report
Updates on NMS as appropriate
Spoken to one group of youths in area regarding noise (late in evening).

Anti-Social-Behaviour, Shakespeare Road

I have been making high visibility regular patrols on foot, bike and vehicle of the area to deter any problems of ASB. HVP of Spotlight centre in relation to reported problems from members of staff. Shop visits made for reassurance at One Stop, no problems reported.
Updates on NMS as appropriate.

Other Popley Issues, General

Various HVP made to get to know the geography of area and other areas highlighted to me by other agencies.
Meeting with key residents and businesses.
Handover work carried out between myself and CSPO colleagues as well as partner agencies. Report from resident in Pershore Road regarding vandalism o/s his address. I have made contact with the resident and patrols of area are being carried out. Reports from residents (via stopping me on patrols and 101 reports) regarding early morning problems with school children between Abbey Road shops and Everest school. I may try and conduct some early morning patrols to help alleviate these problems. Joint patrols made with Police colleagues taken place.

School Work

Playtime patrols made at Marnell Jnr school.
Assembly at Merton Jnr school to introduce myself to children with further

Paula, Paul and I are attending parents evening on the 28th and 29th to meet with parents and speak to them about our role as CSPOs in the community.
Bullying classroom lessons taking place at Marnell JNRs on the 29th by myself and Paula.

Environmental Issues

A number of reports have been made by myself to relevant agencies in regard to environmental problems within the Popley area. The main problems I am noticing at the moment include graffiti and flytipping.
I have been making targeted observations of the small field near to Barrington/ Appleton drive following reports of dog fouling and in conjunction with the dog warden and BDBC environmental team. No offences recorded as yet.

Great work by all the CSPO’s.

29th- I crewed up with PC Phil Stinson today. I used to work with Phil on shift about 8 years ago. How quick time flies! We were in the crime car today conducting patrols in relation to Op Nemesis. We also assisted with a burglary report in Chineham. The weather was foul and the day was fairly straight forward.

In other news: PCSO Sarah Danks will be leaving the Popley team and moving back up North next month. Sarah has been a great colleague and friend and I will miss her lots! She also makes more coffee than anyone else!

Another application for the PSNP has been received, thanks to CSPO Paula James-bailey for the recruitment drive.

30th- (Crime/ASB in Popley)

I walked behind the marchers on strike today. Other officers joined the event to ensure all the marchers, safely completed their mission. The peaceful event started at the entrance of Festival Place, and ended by Basingstoke council offices. It appeared that approx 100 people took part. Less than I expected.

A really good month for the team. Lots of community engagement and re-assurance patrols.