Rushcliffe Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Tim Cuthbert has provided the following update on burglary, shoplifting, off-road bikes, car cruising and the investigation into the death of four-year-old Olive Farrow.
“I’ll start with news on burglary. We’ve seen a sustained reduction in burglary figures in recent weeks as we continue to make further arrests following investigative leads for offences which occurred earlier this year. This focus has had a notable impact on the crimes recorded this quarter.
“You may also have seen the recent news relating to two arrests made by West Yorkshire Police on our behalf shortly after three burglaries on the same evening in Cotgrave at the end of July. The three stolen vehicles were all recovered on the same day, and the two men remain under investigation for these offences.
“We have also seen significantly lower rates of shoplifting in recent months, thanks to the work of the local neighbourhood policing team and problem management plans introduced to address issues at one particular store. Crimes recorded at the store dropped by around 75 per cent between May and August.
“Our off-road bike team spent the weekend patrolling the East Leake, Soar Valley, Gotham and Fairham areas and dealing with off-road bikes. Officers also engaged with local businesses and residents as part of efforts to tackle off-road bike nuisance and the damage and disruption it can cause.
“Our neighbourhood policing team joined the patrols and attended recent complaints about car cruising meets taking place in the area.
“In relation to car cruising, we’re working with the tram network and landowners to seek physical solutions to the challenges faced at the Park and Ride site just off the A453 near Fairham.
“While this may not be a quick fix, we’ll seek a long-term solution with partner agencies, as we have done previously in the Ratcliffe-on-Soar area, where the ‘Red Route’ was introduced.
“Finally, it would be remiss of me not to mention the absolutely devastating incident in Gotham in July in which Olive Farrow, aged four, sadly died following a collision with a vehicle.
“Officers from the neighbourhood policing team were present to support Olive’s funeral last week, and the family continue to be supported by specialist officers as the investigation into the incident continues.
“Olive has been described by her family as cheeky, funny and sassy, with a big personality. They have expressed their thanks to the Gotham community, which has supported the family at this desperately sad time.
“The thoughts of my whole team are with the family.”
