Dalton

Darren Dalton (31) and 36-year-old Joseph Bourne are wanted in connection with the fatal stabbing of Harold Barnes in Wood End, Coventry, on April 20.

Bourne

The 48-year-old made an emergency 999 call just before midnight from outside an address in Hillmorton Road having suffered a stab wound to the chest. He later died in hospital.

West Midlands Police Detective Chief Inspector Steven Reed is leading the enquiry and believes the two suspects – who are from the local area – are being harboured by associates in the city.

He said: “We have a dedicated team of police officers working around the clock in a bid to apprehend Mr Barnes’ killers. They have already made several arrests in connection with the incident and searched more than 70 premises across Coventry.

“All the evidence points to these two suspects still being in the local area and lying low with the help of associates.

“Anyone found assisting suspects and perverting the course of justice can expect to receive lengthy prison sentences themselves.

“I’m confident it will only be a matter of time before we catch these two men. The longer they stay on the run the less favourably the judicial system will later view their cases…I’d urge them to contact police now whilst they still have the chance.”

Local Coventry officers have conducted additional patrols in the area to reassure members of the public since the incident.

The family of Harold Barnes issued a tribute following his death describing him as a “fun, much-loved brother, father and grandfather who will be sadly missed by all his family and friends”.

DCI Reed added the stabbing was an isolated incident and that officers understand Mr Barnes knew the suspects.

“This was not a random attack,” he said. “We believe there was some sort of motive connected to the stabbing…there is nothing to suggest these suspects pose any direct risk to members of the wider community.

“If anyone believes they have seen either man, or may know where they are, I’d urge them to contact us immediately.

“I’m sure there are people in the local community who can help us track down these individuals – and anyone who may feel apprehensive about coming forward can rest assured that information passed to us is handled with the strictest of confidence.

“They have the option to call anonymously via Crimestoppers, whilst there are other measures we can take to protect people’s identity.”

Any witnesses, or anyone with information, should call Force CID at Chace Avenue on 0345 113 5000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Coventry Specials Constables  arrested a well know thief in the early hours of Saturday 9th April on Donegal Close Canley.

The officers were on proactive patrol when they saw the offender sitting on a moped, clearly feeling an opportunity the officers moved in.

The offender panicked, he dumped the bike and ran from the scene in a feeble attempt to extricate himself from what was to be his inevitable capture.

The officers leapt from their vehicle and took chase over nearby grass land. Showing their excellent levels of fitness the offender was clearly no match and was detained, handcuffed and returned to the police vehicle.

Further diligent checks showed the vehicle to be stolen. To add to this the offender was also found to be under the influence of alcohol and was dealt with that as well.

The moon may have been shining, the wind may have been whispering and distant owls may have been gently hooting but the cold facts of the matter are that the theft of motor vehicle was detected, the owner got it back quickly and  excess alcohol and document offences charged.

An outstanding example of work from the Special Constabulary.

Thanks for reading

A Proud Inspector Orencas

Follow us on http://www.twitter.com/Coventry_Police

A member of the public raised the alarm just after 11pm on Wednesday (April 6) after spotting two men attacking the lock-ups in Winnalthorpe, Willenhall, near The Glade pub.

Officers were on the scene within five minutes and discovered a 37-year-old and a 23-year-old lying low amongst storage crates.

Neighbourhood Inspector Alastair Orencas, said: “Both men were arrested…the youngest of the pair seemed to be walking with a limp but it turned out he was secreting a two-foot crowbar down his trousers.

“We received the 999 call at 11.04pm and made the arrests at 11.09pm. The speed at which we arrived at the scene clearly caught them out; perhaps they expected more time to rummage through the garages.

“It appeared that a number of garages had been tampered with whilst a clasp lock on one of them had been forced open.”

The 37-year-old, from Foleshill, and the 23-year-old local man have been bailed until next month pending further enquiries.

Insp Orencas, said: “This was a great arrest in an area that previously had been high on our burglary radar.

“However, there has been just one burglary across Willenhall in the first week of April which is down markedly compared to the same period last year. That’s testament to the work of my officers in the south of Coventry and the concerted drive we’ve had to reduce acquisitive crime.”

Engineers stabilised the 54m high structure utilising another crane at the site and will dismantle the remaining structure today (Friday).

The alert was sparked at approximately 11.20am yesterday morning by engineers at a construction site just off Moor Street in the city centre.

Specialists conducting a routine check of the site identified a potential problem with the concrete foundations which fix the crane to the floor.  As a precautionary measure, they took the decision to alert police and evacuate the site.

A major emergency operation was then launched involving police, the fire service, ambulance crews, the city council and Network Rail.

Cordons were put in place while engineers assessed the crane and worked with emergency services to identify the risk posed to the public.

For a time, there were concerns that the crane, with a 40m long arm, could collapse should the wind reach high speeds and the foundations fail.

Superintendent Matt Ward from Birmingham Central police station managed the multi-agency response.  He said: “As Britain’s second city, Birmingham is well prepared for a range of emergency incidents.

“These plans are regularly tested so that each organisation knows its responsibilities and how to respond.

“When we were notified of this incident, we immediately put those plans into action.  

“Working closely with construction staff, the council and other emergency services, we were able to prevent widespread disruption in the city while maintaining the safety of local people.

“I would like to thank the public for their patience during this incident and the media for helping us communicate important information.”

During the incident, the crane was continually monitored by specialist staff who provided emergency teams with regular updates. 

No one was injured during the incident and local shopping centres and railway stations remained open throughout the emergency.

Cordons around the area were lifted at around 9.15pm yesterday evening.

The only road to remain closed is Park Street at the junction of Albert Street.  This is to allow a mobile crane driven from Manchester access to the site so that engineers can dismantle the remaining structure early today.  Temporary road closures may be enforced during as the machine positions itself.

For more information on preparing for emergencies in Birmingham and to sign-up for free emergency alerts, visit: www.birminghamprepared.gov.uk

 For more snippets follow http://www.twitter.com/Coventry_Police

WEST Midlands Police have launched a brand new campaign to remind members of the public about crime prevention during the lighter warmer months of the year.

This latest initiative features bright and colourful bus, train and poster advertising; promoting simple advice to prevent burglary, personal robbery, vehicle crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB).

As the clocks go forward, the longer daylight hours and improvement in weather conditions often mean a change in crime trends, this is due to alterations to people’s daily routines. More people tend to stay out for longer and leave their gates and windows open at home. These factors can create the perfect environment for opportunist burglars.

The force also tends to see an increase in vehicle related crime and ASB. Car owners are being reminded not to leave valuables on display in their vehicles and letters are being sent to schools to ask young people to stay respectful and considerate in their neighbourhoods.

Elderly members of the community are being advised to report any instances of ASB, but to also recognise young people’s right to play and enjoy where they live. Officers are hoping to promote mutual respect and understanding within communities.

School children have been reminded not to leave valuables such as expensive mobile phones and MP3 players on display when out and about. ASB and personal robbery posters have been sent to schools to promote these messages.

To help reduce your chances of becoming a victim of burglary, ASB or vehicle crime this spring, officers are issuing the following advice:

Home and garden security:

• When you are out of the house keep all windows and doors locked
• If you are going to be out in the garden, still ensure your front door is locked
• Lock away all tools and equipment
• Keep ladders chained up in a garage
• Property mark any valuable items with your postcode
• Check fences and around the edge of your garden to keep burglars out
• Think about your shed, is it securely locked?

To keep your car safe:

• Don’t leave anything on display – even a carrier bag is a temptation for someone to smash and grab. Thieves steal first and think about value later
• Take all belongings with you when leaving the car – if you can’t, lock them in the boot
• Make sure your car windows are closed whenever you leave your vehicle
• Activate the car alarm on leaving your vehicle, and if the car is not alarmed consider having one professionally fitted
• Never leave keys in the ignition – even for just a few seconds
• Never leave car keys in view of ground floor windows or your letter box.

If you are experiencing ASB:

• With any kind of nuisance, harassment etc, keep a diary of all incidents, dates, times, what is happening, any witnesses to what is happening and any steps you have taken to sort things out.
• If the perpetrator is a tenant you can find out who the landlord is and complain to that person. If it is council property you can contact the council
• Where a criminal offence is being committed – criminal damage, stalking, harassment, threats etc, contact your local police on 0345 113 5000 or pop into a station
• Think about videoing evidence and if you can afford it install a camera if you think this will help to gather evidence
• If you are suffering from ASB remember you do not have to suffer in silence. Your local officers are here to help.

Chief Inspector Kerry Blakeman, from Coventry Police, said: “At this time of year we traditionally see a change in crime trends – people tend to stay out longer to enjoy the lighter nights and warmer weather. This can have a knock-on effect when it comes to burglary and ASB.

“We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun but taking a few minutes to check on the security of your home or vehicle could be all it takes to stop criminals ruining your summer.”

To support the spring campaign, the force has also launched a major proactive initiative, Serve and Protect, which will see officers targeting criminals and working to significantly drive down crime for the next three months.

Follow us on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Coventry_Police

The point is that if you decide to circumvent Dixons (other retail outlets are available) by buying items for a ridiculously low price it is highly likely that the property is either stolen, broken or indeed fictional.

If its stolen then you are fueling crime and if it either of the other 2 options you’ve been ripped off.

Just think before you go for the ultimate once in a lift time bargain – if it’s too good to be true balance up the probabilities and if it feels wrong then walk away.

Similar article from 2010

COVENTRY Police are warning householders to think twice before buying second hand goods that may have been stolen in local burglaries.

Officers have been made aware of a number of people being offered goods such as plasma tvs and I-pods for sale on their doorstep which have actually come from local burglaries.

Many people in the city may be tempted by doorstep offers which sound too good to be true, but officers from Coventry Police are warning that if the price and the circumstances don’t seem right then the chances are that the item is stolen and anyone buying such goods could face prosecution themselves.

Chief Inspector Dave Reilly said: “A lot of the burglars in Coventry are looking to sell goods on fast to fuel their drug or alcohol habits, so they are offering them to other householders at cheap prices.

“I would warn anyone tempted to buy these products that if they do buy a stolen tv or i-pod then they are committing a crime and could be prosecuted for handling stolen goods.”

The law treats the handlers of stolen goods as severely as it does the burglar themselves and the maximum penalty for handling stolen goods is 14 years imprisonment.

Chief Inspector Dave Reilly warned: “If you are offered goods where the price seems too good to be true, then the chances are it is stolen and it’s a burglar offering to sell you something he may later break in to steal back and sell on.

“I would encourage all householders not to buy these goods and report anyone offering them for sale to the police.”

Police are tackling burglary with extra high visibility and undercover patrols in known hotspots as well as leaflet drops to householders.

They are also visiting local pawnbrokers and cash converter shops to pass on the warning about handling stolen goods and to encourage reporting.

Police are also repeating their appeal to householders to keep windows and doors closed during warm weather to help deter burglars in the first place.

Anyone being offered goods for sale they are concerned might be stolen should call their neighbourhood team on 0345 113 5000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Officers are urging residents to protect their PIN numbers when they withdraw cash and to be on the lookout for anything suspicious attached to the ATM.    

The most recent incidents have been reported on Earlsdon High Street and the Co-op at Brownshill Green Road in Coundon.

PC Neil Kenton, leading the investigation, said: “These camera devices have been shaped and coloured to blend in with the ATM facia when fitted.

“They are designed to record the customer as they enter their PIN number and retain their card so that fraudulent withdrawals can subsequently be made.

“Always shield your PIN number from view and be aware of those around you when withdrawing money.”

Police have stepped up patrols in vulnerable locations and are working closely with local shop staff to keep a close eye on ATMs and people making use of them.

Anyone who has been spotted one of these devices at an ATM in Coventry or who believes they may have been a victim of the scam is urged to report it to Coventry Police immediately on 0345 113 5000.

Visit www.coventrypolice.org.uk for crime prevention advice, local news and links to neighbourhood blogs, Twitter feeds and the Coventry Police Facebook page.

Follow http://www.twitter.com/Coventry_Police for more updates

51 year old James Browne from the Eastern Green area of Coventry was handed a confiscation order today (Thursday 3 March 2011) at Birmingham Crown Court, which forces him to pay £156,589.94 within 6 months.

If Browne fails to pay the money back within the specified time, he faces a further two years and four months in prison and will still owe the money following the extended sentence.

Browne was sentenced to eight years in prison back in December 2009, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to supply class A drugs. Browne was initially arrested as part of Operation Closedown, a major police operation which aimed to tackle crime on the streets of Coventry.

The court determined the total amount Browne benefited from due to his criminal activities was £244,000. Police, together with the courts have the power to revisit the confiscation order at a later stage, should he acquire more assets or money in the future.

Detective Inspector Chris Berrow, head of the West Midlands Regional Asset Recovery Team (RART) said: “If you are convicted of drug dealing, we will come after your assets.

“We hope this significant confiscation order will send a clear message to criminals that crime does not pay.

“We also ask that if anyone has any information regarding Browne’s assets that may have been acquired through his criminal activities, to contact us immediately.”

Anyone who has information which they think might help is asked to contact officers on 0345 113 5000. Alternatively you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

CANNABIS with a street value of up to two million pounds has been seized by police after a raid on what’s believed to be the largest drugs factory ever found in Coventry.

The “industrial scale” cannabis farm was uncovered by officers at a commercial unit in Sandy Lane, Radford, when a drugs search warrant was executed just after 8.30am on Monday morning (21 February).

Most of the premises’ 13,000 square foot floor space was being used to cultivate the class C drug with plants ranging from small saplings in a nursery to fully grown versions ready for harvest. Almost 5,000 cannabis plants were discovered in total.

Sergeant Neil Ward, from Radford neighbourhood policing team, said: “It was a very timely discovery as many of the plants were at maturity and ready to be picked. Initial estimates put the potential yield and value at between one and two million pounds.

“The set up was professional: the growing rooms were separated with studding and double skin vinyl sheeting and the hydroponics were suspended on cabling and set on timers. We estimate the cost of the equipment alone to be around £60,000.

“It was also clear this was a 24-hour operation and evidence of live-in farmers as part of the unit had been annexed for living accommodation, beds, cookers and fridges.”

Two men believed to be of Vietnamese origin were arrested at the scene and are currently helping police with their enquiries.

Officers from the Radford team swooped on the premises following a community tip-off that the premises were being used for illegal activity.

Sergeant Ward said: “Information from residents about suspicious behaviour is vital in our efforts to disrupt offenders and remove them from our neighbourhoods.

“We always welcome this local intelligence and would encourage members of the public to keep talking to us about their concerns.

“We are at our most effective when we all work together and will always deal with intelligence in strict confidence.”

NEIGHBOURHOOD policing is at its most effective when local officers and members of the public work together to make their community a pleasant, safe place to live.

And nowhere is this more important than the fight to rid Coventry’s neighbourhoods of illegal drug manufacture operations.

‘Cannabis factories’ are increasingly being identified and closed down by Coventry Police as information about properties is shared amongst partner organisations and suspect premises are monitored.

Earlier this week an industrial unit in Sandy Lane, Radford, was raided by officers and brought in what is believed to be the largest ever haul of 5,000 cannabis plants with a potential street value of between one and two million pounds.

These are not amateur set-ups with casual dope smokers tending window boxes. Most feature elaborate light, heat, timing and irrigation systems, whilst the walls, floors and ceilings of rooms are covered with insulating sheets – all with the intention of harvesting drugs quickly and on a large scale.

Such operations attract an undesirable element into communities which in turn can increase crime and anti-social behaviour; sometimes the factories themselves are targeted by thieves.

Local intelligence is vital in the police’s efforts to disrupt offenders and remove them from the city’s neighbourhoods.

But although police are starting to receive a growing number of tip-offs from members of the public about suspicious behaviour, it seems many still “don’t want to trouble” them with information.

On the contrary, officers welcome reports of illegal drug cultivation and always deal with the information in strict confidence.

Here are some of the signs that may indicate a property is being used as a cannabis factory:

• Windows blacked out and/or curtains permanently drawn;
• Very bright lights being used inside the address;
• People regularly visiting the property for short periods of time;
• A strong smell coming from the address – either the sweet, leafy aroma of cannabis or excessive air freshener in an attempt to mask the plants’ odour;
• Equipment and supplies being carried into the property, i.e. rolls of plastic sheeting, extractor fans, silver foil tubular ducting, large plant pots, large amounts of soil or fertiliser, electrical wiring etc.

Landlords are also being asked to visit properties on a regular basis, every few months, to check everything’s in order. If tenants insist on speaking on the doorstep, or won’t allow access to certain rooms, it could mean they’re hiding something.

Thanks for reading

Alastair

To report any suspicious activity, call Coventry Police on 0345 113 5000 or contact your neighbourhood police team direct by visiting www.coventrypolice.org.uk

And keep up to date with all the latest Coventry Police news through their Facebook page. Go to www.facebook.com/coventrypolice and click on the “I Like” icon at the top of the page to receive regular updates.

South Coventry twitter http://www.twitter.com/Coventry_Police