A man has been charged and is due to appear in court in connection with a reported attempted robbery in Bournemouth.
A county lines drug dealer whose supply operation was found in a Bournemouth hotel has been jailed for three years and nine months.
Andre Steve McRonna, 25 and of no fixed abode, was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court on Friday 11 October 2019 after being found guilty of two counts of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug and facilitating, acquiring or possessing criminal property. He had pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to possession of a prohibited weapon and possession of cannabis.
On Friday 10 February 2017 officers executed a drugs warrant at a block of flats in Churchill Road in Bournemouth. McRonna was located in the communal hallway of the flats and was subject of a stop and search.
Officers found he was carrying cannabis, two mobile phones and a can of pepper spray and he was arrested.
As part of their enquiries officers established that McRonna had been staying at the Manchester Hotel in Bournemouth. His room was also searched and they located a white sock containing approximately £2,700 in cash. The cash was forensically examined and traces of heroin and cannabis were located. Black scales were also found in his room.
Staff at the hotel stated that McRonna had stayed at the hotel between Thursday 5 January 2017 and Friday 10 February 2017.
His mobile phones were examined and notes were located. They were viewed by a drugs expert who concluded that they were associated with the sale of heroin and crack cocaine.
Police Constable Young, of Bournemouth police, said: “Andre McRonna was involved in the supply of class A drugs in Bournemouth as part of a county lines drug dealing network.
“Drug dealing supply and misuse can blight communities and we are committed to tackling this and bringing dealers such as McRonna to justice.”
County Lines is the term used to describe urban gangs supplying drugs to suburban areas, as well as market and coastal towns, by using dedicated mobile phone lines.
Criminals across the country use children and vulnerable people of all ages to courier drugs and money. These drug dealers will often take up residence in a person’s home – known as cuckooing – to sell drugs in the local area.
Once caught up in county lines, exploited individuals are at risk of extreme physical and/or sexual violence, gang recriminations and trafficking.
A teenage boy is due to appear in court in connection with a report of someone impersonating a police officer in Bournemouth.
Officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a man indecently exposed himself in Bournemouth.
At approximately 10pm on Wednesday 14 August 2019 a man indecently exposed himself to a woman who was running in Kings Park near to the cricket pavilion.
The suspect is described as white, aged in his late 20s, five feet seven inches tall and of average build with very short hair. He was also described as having distinctive blue eyes and a blond beard that was around five inches long. The man was wearing a black hooded top, dark blue jeans and black headphones.
Police Constable Cameron McGlone, of Bournemouth police, said: “I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the relevant time and saw any suspicious behaviour to contact Dorset Police.
“I would also like to hear from anyone who has any information about the identity of the man from the description given.”
A speeding motorist who mounted the pavement and crashed into a pedestrian causing him serious injuries has been jailed.
Asil Abdul Mohammed, 32 and of West Hill Road in Bournemouth, was sentenced to four years in prison following a hearing at Bournemouth Crown Court on Friday 16 August 2019. He was found guilty of causing serious injury by dangerous driving at an earlier trial at the same court.
He was disqualified from driving for six years.
At around 9.50pm on Saturday 19 January 2019 a number of people witnessed a silver Volkswagen Passat being driven erratically and at speed around Bournemouth town centre.
The collision occurred in St Peters Road. At this time the victim – a local man aged in his 20s – was walking along the pavement with a group of friends when he heard the sound of screeching tyres. He tried to see where the noise was coming from and saw the Passat mount the pavement and then collide with him. The force of the collision pushed him up against a nearby wall before he fell to the floor.
The car failed to stop at the scene. It was captured on CCTV driving away at speed before it was left parked in Parsonage Road. The driver was seen to walk into a nearby hotel, drop his jacket off to his room and leave again.
Officers searching for the offender arrested Mohammed in Bath Road.
He admitted he was the owner of the car and the keys to the Passat were found in a jacket recovered from his room. However, he denied being the driver.
The victim was taken to Poole Hospital for treatment. He sustained a bleed on the brain and severe grazing to his head and face.
Police Constable Paul Wilson, of the road traffic unit, said: “Asil Mohammed’s manner of driving that day was reckless and dangerous and it is nothing but sheer luck that his actions did not claim his victim’s life or that of another innocent pedestrian or motorist.
Officers investigating a fatal road traffic collision on the A31 in East Dorset have arrested a man.
Dorset Police was called at 8.46am on Tuesday 30 April 2019 to a report of a collision outside Henbury Stud Farm near Sturminster Marshall. The collision involved a green Kawasaki motorcycle, a white Ford transit panel van and a white Citroen Relay dropside lorry.
Emergency services attended and very sadly the motorcyclist, a 40-year-old man from Poole, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The occupants of the other vehicles involved did not sustain any serious injuries.
A 41-year-old man from Poole has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and perverting the course of justice and has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
Inspector Joe Pardey, of the traffic unit, said: “Our investigations into the circumstances surrounding this collision remain ongoing and I am renewing our appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident, or the manner of driving of any of the vehicles involved prior to it, to please contact us. We would also like to hear from anyone who was driving in the area at the time of the collision and may have relevant dashcam footage.”
The Senior Coroner for the County of Dorset is seeking the assistance of the public to find the next of kin of a man who died in Poole.
Shain Davidnov, who was 76 years old, was found deceased at his home address in Highmoor Road on Tuesday 30 April 2019.
The Coroner’s Office is making enquiries into his death, which is not being treated as suspicious.
As yet no next of kin have been located for this man.
If any member of the public has any knowledge of his family members, please contact Jude at the Coroner’s Office as soon as possible on 01202 454767.
Officers investigating a fatal road traffic collision on the A31 in East Dorset are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage of the incident to come forward.
Dorset Police was called at 8.46am today, Tuesday 30 April 2019, to a report of a collision outside Henbury Stud Farm near Sturminster Marshall. The collision involved a green Kawasaki motorcycle, a white Ford transit panel van and a white Citroen Relay dropside lorry.
Emergency services attended and very sadly the motorcyclist, a 40-year-old man from Poole, was pronounced dead at the scene. His family has been informed and is being supported by specially-trained officers.
The occupants of the other vehicles involved did not sustain any serious injuries.
Road closures were put in place between the Roundhouse roundabout and the Lake Gates roundabout to allow the emergency services to deal with the incident and for collision scene investigators to carry out examinations. The road reopened shortly after 4pm.
Police Sergeant Fern Graham, of the traffic unit, said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the motorcyclist at this difficult time and we will be carrying out a full investigation to establish the exact circumstances of this collision.
“I am appealing to any witnesses to the incident, or the manner of driving of any of the vehicles involved prior to it, to contact us. We would also like to hear from anyone who was driving in the area at the time of the collision and may have relevant dashcam footage.
“I appreciate the closure of a main trunk road for a long period will have caused significant disruption but we owe it to the family of the deceased to carry out a thorough investigation of the collision, which includes a detailed examination of the scene. I would like to thank all those affected for their patience and understanding during these road closures.”
Officers investigating a series of reported sexual assaults in Bournemouth are appealing for a woman to come forward.
It is reported that two separate women were sexually assaulted just after 5.21pm on Saturday 13 April 2019 at the Co-op petrol station on Castle Lane West. Two further similar incidents were reported to have taken place in the Castlepoint area a short time later. It is alleged the offender smacked or touched the bottoms of the women.
As part of their enquiries officers are keen to speak to a woman who was in the lower car park underneath Sainsbury’s at Castlepoint at around 5.30pm that day and may have been approached by a man in similar circumstances.
Police Constable Justyna Nicholas, of Bournemouth police, said: “I would appeal to this woman or anyone else with information to please contact me.”
A 33-year-old man from Bournemouth who was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault remains released on police bail pending further enquiries.
Detectives investigating the reported assault of two people in Bournemouth are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
It was reported that shortly before 2am on Sunday 21 April 2019, the victims – a man and women aged in their 30s – were walking from Old Christchurch Road toward the Lansdowne roundabout when they became involved in a verbal altercation with a man who accused them of damaging his phone.
They walked away from the man and entered Christchurch Road near to Zephyr nightclub and KFC when the female was reportedly struck by an item, believed to be a glass bottle thrown by the alleged offender, who had followed them.
The male victim turned to give chase and was also reportedly struck by an item that was believed to be a glass bottle. The male victim sustained lacerations to his face and the woman sustained a head injury.
The alleged offender was described as white, around five feet nine inches tall and with short dark hair and was wearing grey jeans and no top.
A 34-year-old man from Margate in Kent was arrested on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent and has been released under investigation as detectives continue to make enquiries.
Detective Constable Matt Manners, of Bournemouth CID, said: “I am appealing for any witnesses to these reported assaults or anyone with information that can assist our investigation to contact police.”
A person reported missing in the Verwood area has been found safe and well after a search mission by Dorset Police.
The National Police Air Service (NPAS) were called in to help local police on Tuesday night after a call reporting a missing teenage girl was received at 9.24pm. She was last seen at 5.30pm.
The girl was located safe and well at around 1am this morning, Wednesday 24 April 2019, in the West Moors area.
The NPAS helicopter was heard by residents in Verwood around 11pm circling the area for about around two hours.
NAPS tweeted on Wednesday morning saying the missing person was found: “We had just the one job last night, assisting Dorset Poloice with a missing person search in the Verwood area. Person subsequently found safe and well away from our search area.”
https://twitter.com/NPASBournemouth/status/1120926079697477632
Hearing @NPASBournemouth @dorsetpolice hovering and circling many times in #VerwoodDorset tonight. – @VerwoodToday #Dorset #NPASBournemouth #Bournemouth #NPAS999 #NPAS #PoliceHelicopter #NotATrainingExercise #Verwood #Wimborne #DoresetEcho #DorsetCulture pic.twitter.com/isZJbK9O3I
— Matt™ | TruckersMP Event Manager (@MattTrucker_TMP) April 23, 2019
A 17-year-old boy is due to appear in court this month in connection with a serious injury collision in Poole.
At around 11.30am on Tuesday 2 October 2018 a collision occurred on Creekmoor Lane involving a blue and white motorcycle and a red Seat Ibiza car.
The male motorcyclist, aged 17 and from Bournemouth, was taken by air ambulance to Southampton General Hospital with serious injuries. He was subsequently discharged.
The driver of the Seat was uninjured. He was interviewed voluntarily by officers for a suspected offence of driving without due care and attention. He has since been released from the investigation without charge.
The motorcyclist has been issued with a postal requisition to appear at Poole Youth Court on Tuesday 30 April 2019 for offences of dangerous driving, driving without insurance and driving while disqualified.
The family of a woman who died in a fatal collision in Christchurch has named and paid tribute to her.
Joy Norman, 82 and of Christchurch, died following a road traffic collision on Somerford Road at around 3.15pm on Monday 18 March 2019. The incident happened as she was walking along the pavement and involved a blue Ford Focus. Very sadly, and despite the best efforts of emergency services, Joy died at the scene.
The driver of the Ford, a 54-year-old man from Christchurch, was arrested on suspicion of driving offences. He has been released under investigation while enquiries continue.
An inquest into her death was opened today, Monday 25 March 2019. A full inquest will be held at a later date.
In a statement, Joy’s family said: “The family of Joy Norman would like to thank the local community for their flowers and tributes, especially those who tried so hard to save her life.
“A big thank you also to the emergency services and the police family support officers who have been there for us during this sad time.
“We miss Joy so much already. She was a loving sister, aunt and friend. Our family get-togethers will never be the same without her sense of fun and slightly fey character.
“Joy cared for children all her working life and for family, friends and neighbours during her retirement.
“She is and will be greatly missed.”
Police Constable Jay Griffin, of the Serious Collision investigation Team, said: “An investigation into the collision remains ongoing and I am appealing to any witnesses, who have not already spoken to police, or anyone who may have captured the incident on dashcam to please contact me.”
Detectives investigating a reported robbery at a bookmakers in Bournemouth have arrested a man.
At 3.50pm on Friday 15 March 2019 Dorset Police was called to a report of a robbery at Coral bookmakers in Seamoor Road.
It was reported that a man had entered the store and made threats that he was in possession of a weapon before making off with cash. There were no reports of any weapon being seen and no reports of any injuries.
A 46-year-old man from Bournemouth was arrested yesterday evening, Wednesday 20 March 2019, on suspicion of robbery and remains assisting officers with their enquiries.
Detective Sergeant Mark Portelli, of Bournemouth CID, said: “I would still appeal to anyone who may have witnessed this incident or has information that may assist my investigation to please contact Dorset Police.”
Officers are appealing for the public’s help to find a woman who has gone missing from Verwood.
Samantha Turner, 44, was last seen at her home address in Peel Close at 5am on Monday 18 March 2019 and was discovered missing at 12.30pm. She was reported missing at 10.26pm yesterday.
She is described as white, of medium build, five feet six inches tall and with blonde shoulder-length hair. She has a black cast on her right leg and a white Converse trainer on her left foot. She also wears a knee support and glasses. Samantha suffers from sight problems, particularly at night.
Chief Inspector Rob Chalkley, of Dorset Police, said: “Samantha has left her home without her keys, mobile phone or the medication she requires each day.
“Due to the passage of time since she was seen or spoken to, we are now becoming increasingly concerned for Samantha.
“I would urge anyone who has seen Samantha or knows of her whereabouts to please contact Dorset Police.
“I am also keen to hear from anyone who may have seen a woman matching the description given over the last 24 hours to please call.
“Finally, if Samantha sees this appeal I would ask her to please get in touch. We and your family are very worried about you and we just want to know you are OK.”
Anyone with information or knowledge as to Samantha’s whereabouts is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 18:446.
An 80-year-old woman has died following a road traffic collision in Christchurch on Monday afternoon.
Dorset Police received a report of an incident on Somerford Road involving a pedestrian and a blue Ford Focus just after 3pm.
Very sadly the pedestrian, a woman from Christchurch aged in her 80s, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family has been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers. The coroner has also been notified.
The driver of the Ford, a man aged in his 50s and from Christchurch, was arrested on suspicion of driving offences and is assisting officers with their enquiries.
Inspector Joe Pardey, of the traffic unit, said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the woman involved and we are carrying out a full investigation to establish the exact circumstances of the collision.
“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident and has not already spoken to officers to please make contact with us.
“I would also like to hear from anyone who may have captured the incident on dashcam.
“Finally, I would like to thank motorists and members of the public for their patience and understanding during the road closures, which were absolutely necessary to allow the emergency services to deal with the incident and to enable a proper examination of the collision scene.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email at SCIT@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 18:263. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
Officers are appealing for witnesses after a man was assaulted outside a Bournemouth store.
At around 4.55am on Sunday 17 March 2019 it was reported that an assault had taken place outside The Golden Supermarket in Charminster Road. It is said an altercation had occurred between the victim – a local man aged in his 40s – and a group of men.
The victim was punched and kicked in the head. He was taken to hospital for treatment to injuries to his face and fractured ribs and was discharged the same day.
Police Constable Dominic Frost, of Bournemouth police, said: “This was a nasty assault and enquiries are underway to establish the full circumstances, including CCTV checks.
“I would ask anyone who was in the Charminster Road area at the time and either witnessed the assault or saw anything suspicious to please contact Dorset Police.”
Officers investigating a reported voyeurism incident at a Bournemouth shop are issuing a CCTV image of the suspect.
At around midday on Monday 28 January 2019 a woman entered the female changing room at River Island on Commercial Road to try on a pair of jeans. On the entry to the changing rooms she noticed a man stood outside.
While inside, the victim suddenly noticed a hand holding a mobile phone under the partition of the changing room. As she looked down, the hand quickly moved away.
The victim quickly got changed and left the store. She went home and contacted the store and then reported the incident to Dorset Police.
Police Constable Holly Palmer, of Bournemouth police, said: “Following enquiries we have viewed the CCTV from the store and have identified a suspect. We have made numerous efforts to identify this man but these have not been successful.
“I appreciate the CCTV images are not overly clear, however this is the best we have and I would ask anyone who recognises this man or the clothing worn to please contact Dorset Police.”
A man is due to appear in court in connection with the reported theft of two bicycles from a sports club in Bournemouth.
At around 5.45pm on Tuesday 4 September 2018 two men allegedly entered the grounds of the West Hants Club on Roslin Road South and used bolt croppers to cut the locks of two bikes.
Following enquiries by officers, a 28-year-old Bournemouth man has been issued with a postal requisition to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 19 March 2019 for offences of theft.
Plans for a new link road and junction directly connecting the A338 with the Wessex Fields Business Park and Royal Bournemouth Hospital can now go ahead after the Secretary of State refused the request to call in the decision.
Leader of Bournemouth Council, Councillor John Beesley said: We are delighted that the Secretary of State has concluded that he need not intervene in this important local issue and we thank him for that.
“Our plans to build a new link road and junction connecting the A338 with the Wessex Fields Business Park and the Hospital are already supported by central government funding and will provide a much needed second access to the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, unlock a major economic development site, as well as ease congestion in the future.
“We can now finally get on with building this much needed scheme providing a major boost to the local economy.”
Councillor Philip Broadhead, portfolio holder for the Economy, added: “To get the final go-ahead is fantastic news. The investment will support the creation of around 2,000 new jobs at Wessex Fields Business Park, safeguard the existing 10,000 jobs in the area, as well as provide a much needed second access to the Royal Bournemouth Hospital site.”
The planning application had already been subjected to exhaustive scrutiny as well as significant public consultation. Members of Bournemouth’s Planning Board voted in January to support the recommendation to grant planning permission subject to today’s outcome by the Secretary of State.
Gary Powell, Head of Highways and Transportation, said: “We would like to thank the very many people and businesses who have supported us in our plans, in particular by writing to the Local Planning Authority to urge approval of the application.”
The scheme has been backed by both the Royal Bournemouth Hospital and the Local Enterprise Partnership who is funding the scheme.
Richard Renaut, Chief Operating Officer at Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said; “The Trust fully supports the plans to develop a new link road and junction as it will alleviate congestion ensuring our patients, visitors and hardworking staff do not have to endure delays accessing or leaving the site.”
Lorna Carver, Director of Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership, said; “Transforming the infrastructure in and around Wessex Fields and connecting it to the A338 will enable the area to reach its full economic potential, creating and safeguarding thousands of jobs, driving business growth across Dorset and providing a second access route to Royal Bournemouth Hospital.”
Officers investigating reports of an assault in the Highcliffe area of Christchurch are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.
The incident occurred sometime between 4.45pm and 5pm on Saturday 2 March 2019.
A man aged in his 50s was jogging in Hinton Wood Avenue when he became involved in an incident involving two youths on pedal cycles.
It was reported that the youths followed the man on their bikes as he ran toward Lymington Road and into Wharncliffe Road, before heading down Beacon Drive and into Ranelagh Road.
In Ranelagh Road the man was allegedly challenged by a man and woman who arrived on the scene in a white vehicle. He reported that he was assaulted by this man and woman as well as one of the youths and sustained head injuries that required an assessment in hospital.
A 36-year-old local woman and a 33-year-old local man have been arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and have been released under investigation as officers continue to make enquiries.
Police Constable Paul Mellor, of Dorset Police, said: “Our investigation into this incident is ongoing and I am appealing to anyone who witnessed this altercation, or who has any information that can assist our enquiries, to contact us.”
A man has been jailed for 32 months for drug dealing offences in Bournemouth.
Constantin Ozansoy, 24 and of Chingford Road in London, was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court on Monday 4 March 2019 after admitting two charges of possessing class A drugs with intent to supply at an earlier hearing at the same court.
On the morning of Wednesday 3 October 2018 an officer on mobile patrol in an unmarked police vehicle saw a man she suspected to be a drug user loitering under the flyover near to the tennis courts in Bournemouth Central Gardens.
The officer saw the defendant drive a black Ford Focus into a car park in Branksome Wood Road, opposite where the man was waiting. The man then went over and got into Ozansoy’s car before leaving around 30 seconds later. Ozansoy drove off in the direction of Bournemouth town centre.
The following day the same officer was on patrol with a colleague in Branksome Wood Road when they saw a group of people waiting in the same area, including the man from the previous day.
The defendant arrived in the same vehicle and the man and a woman who were waiting both approached the car.
The officers pulled in nearby and approached the vehicle. The defendant was seen in the driver’s seat with his hand down his trousers and a quantity of cash between his legs.
He was arrested and on being searched was found to be in possession of a blue polythene bag containing what were suspected to be class A drugs.
The package was found to contain 28 wraps of heroin and 26 of crack cocaine, with an estimated street value of £540.
Police Constable Jo Morgan, from the Bournemouth South Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We are committed to tackling the supply of drugs in our community as we recognise the detrimental impact this has on all living in the area.
“This case is a demonstration of the proactive efforts our officers are making on a regular basis to tackle drug dealing and those involving in the supply chain.
“We will also continue to work with our partners and members of the community and are grateful for any intelligence and information received from members of the public that can help us target our resources in the most effective way.
Two men have been jailed after admitting a series of thefts from cash machines across Dorset.
Constantin Razyan Tanase, aged 32 and Adrian Tanase, aged 36, both of Waverley Road in London, were sentenced to 12 months in prison at Bournemouth Crown Court on Thursday 21 February 2019 after admitting five counts of theft from cash machines. Adrian Tanase also admitted a charge of possessing or controlling an article for use in fraud.
At around 10.15pm on Thursday 10 January 2019 Dorset Police received a report from security staff at the Dolphin Centre in Poole of three men acting suspiciously around a TSB cash machine in Falkland Square.
Town centre cameras tracked the men and showed two of them using some sort of lead or ribbon to remove a large number of bank notes from the machine. The total taken was £230.
The two men were located by officers and arrested. Adrian Tanase was found to have a bank card in his pocket that was not in his name.
Further reports had been received of cash being stolen from TSB machines in High West Street Dorchester and Old Christchurch Road in Bournemouth in the early hours of Friday 4 January 2019, with £300 and £280 taken respectively. A further incident happened in Old Christchurch Road in the early hours of Sunday 30 December 2019, where £310 was taken, and a fifth incident occurred at a TSB cash machine on Gillingham High Street.
CCTV from these offences were obtained and through this Constantin and Adrian Tanase were identified as the men responsible.
The defendants also asked for three cash machine thefts in Suffolk and three in Norfolk that occurred on Sunday 6 January 2019 and Monday 7 January 2019 to be taken into consideration when they were sentenced.
Detective Constable Garry Weston, of Bournemouth CID, said: “These two men were responsible for a number of thefts from cash machines not just across Dorset but elsewhere in the country.
“Thanks to the actions of the security staff at the Dolphin Centre, the Poole town centre camera team and the swift response of officers we were able to arrest them and bring them to justice for their offending.”
Officers investigating the theft of clothing from two stores are issuing CCTV images of the suspect.
At around 5.50pm on Saturday 26 January 2019 a man entered the TK Maxx store at the Meteor Retail Park in Christchurch and selected a number of clothing items before leaving the premises without paying.
A similar incident occurred at the TK Maxx store in West Howe on Friday 1 February 2019, which officers believe involved the same male offender.
The total value of clothing taken during the two thefts was approximately £400. Police Sergeant Carmel Ryan, of Dorset Police, said: “We are carrying out enquiries into these two incidents and are issuing CCTV images of the suspect in the hope that someone will recognise him.
“I would urge anyone with information as to his identity to contact us.”
A man who admitted a number of theft and fraud charges has been jailed for 12 weeks.
Jake Anthony Sweatland, aged 24 and of Charminster Road, Bournemouth, was sentenced at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Friday 22 February 2019 after admitting two theft offences and four counts of fraud by false representation.
On Friday 1 February 2019 a Bournemouth man aged in his 20s received a call from his bank in relation to activity on his account. A family member checked his vehicle, which had been parked on Coleman Road in Bournemouth overnight, and found it had been broken into and his wallet containing cash and two bank cards had been taken.
His bank records showed three transactions at the Bear Cross Service Station on Ringwood Road in Bournemouth between 2.32am and 2.37am on 1 February, with amounts of £29.98, £22.10 and £29.98.
CCTV footage from the service station was obtained and Sweatland was identified as the offender.
At around 12pm on Monday 4 February 2019 a man discovered his vehicle which had been parked on the driveway of his home address in Casterbridge Road in Ferndown had been broken into with loose change taken. He checked his home CCTV system, which showed a man later identified by officers as Sweatland forcing entry to the vehicle the previous night at around 10.25pm.
Officers attended Sweatland’s address on Thursday 21 February 2019 to make an arrest and carried out a search of the premises. During the search they found a debit card in the name of a Bournemouth woman.
Police established that the woman had reported the card missing on Monday 21 January 2019 and an unsuccessful attempt had been made to use it at Premier Food and Wine in Charminster Road on Wednesday 20 February 2019. Again, Sweatland was identified as the man who attempted to use the card through CCTV from the store.
Police Constable Matt Williamson, of Bournemouth police, said: “Jake Sweatland is a prolific offender and I am pleased that through our investigations we were able to identify him as the man responsible for these offences so he could be brought before the court.
“Although there is nothing to suggest the victims in this case did anything to themselves a target, I would like to take this opportunity to urge residents to make sure they do not leave anything on display in their vehicles and make sure they are locked securely at all times.
“Think about where you park and consider using an alarm or immobiliser. For more information on how to protect your vehicle from thieves visit www.dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention/home-property-belongings/vehicle-crime-removeitlockit/.”
A man is due to appear in court in connection with a reported assault in Bournemouth.
The incident happened at approximately 3.25am on Saturday 7 April 2018 on Old Christchurch Road.
It was reported that a 16-year-old boy was standing near to McDonald’s when he was approached by a man and punched to the face. He sustained a broken jaw and was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries.
A 20-year-old Southampton man has been issued with a postal requisition to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 5 March 2019 for an offence of unlawful wounding.
A 49 year male old cyclist has been injured and taken to hospital after colliding with a fire engine in Bournemouth this afternoon.
It happened on Wallisdown Road at the junction with Sunnymoor Road just after midday.
Officers are appealing for witnesses.
The fire engine had been returning to the station following a call out at the time and was not on blue lights.
Police Sergeant Phil Lee, of the traffic unit, said: “I am appealing to anyone who saw what happened or may have relevant dashcam footage to please contact me.”
Officers investigating an incident whereby two men impersonated police officers in Bournemouth are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
At around 7.15pm on Saturday 16 February 2019, a woman aged in her 20s was travelling westbound along the dual carriageway on Ringwood Road toward the Clock Garage roundabout.
A dark-coloured BMW approached her Nissan Almera from behind before flashing its headlights and indicating for the vehicle to stop.
Two men got out of the vehicle wearing high visibility jackets and claimed to her that they were police officers.
They told her that her car had flagged up on their system and asked to see her driving licence. She did not have it to hand and they told her she could be fined and that they could process this at the roadside. She told the men that she did not have any money on her so they told her to bring her logbook to the police station and the pair left.
The first man is described as white, with dark hair and stubble. He was aged in his 30s, five feet seven inches tall and of medium build. He had a diagonal mark on the right hand side of his neck and was wearing dark trousers and a black baseball cap.
The second man is described as white, with short ginger hair and aged in his late 20s. He was of skinny build and wearing dark jeans.
There have not been any further similar reports to date.
Police Inspector Joe Pardey, of the traffic unit, said: “We are making enquiries into the incident and am appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or has been approached in a similar way to please contact Dorset Police.
“If you were travelling in the area around the time of the incident, please review your dashcam footage and report anything relevant to us.
“We expect our officers to identify a safe place to stop a vehicle and will use blue lights to make the request, not just head lights.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for ID. If in doubt, acknowledge that you have seen the vehicle and drive to a location where you feel safe, for example a petrol station, shop forecourt or well-lit area.
“There are only rare occasions where the police take money at the roadside and this relates to those drivers who are either temporary visitors to the UK or those where we cannot readily identify their address. The officers would always have documentation to support this process.”
Officers are appealing for witnesses following a collision between a car and an ambulance in Christchurch.
The incident happened at around 2.35pm today, Wednesday 20 February 2019, along Fairmile Road at the junction of Clarendon Road. The car involved was a Volkswagen Golf.
The driver of the Golf sustained a minor injury and was treated at the scene.
Pictures from @Steve_Hogan_ of the incident in #Christchurch involving an ambulance and a car.
Roads are closed which is causing severe congestion in the town. pic.twitter.com/BOZGFQY3Cf— BBC Radio Solent (@BBCRadioSolent) February 20, 2019
Two paramedics from the ambulance were taken to Poole hospital as a precaution. It is understood the ambulance was responding to an emergency call at the time of the collision, however no patients were on board.
Prior to the incident, an unmarked police car had illuminated its lights and requested for the Golf to stop.
A road closure was put in place to allow emergency services to deal with the incident.
A 31-year-old man from Dorchester was arrested on suspicion of failing to stop when requested by police, driving without insurance, dangerous driving, drug driving and driving a motor vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a licence. He is assisting officers with enquiries.
Police Inspector Joe Pardey, of the traffic unit, said: “An investigation into the circumstances of the collision is now underway.
“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or the manner of driving of either vehicle prior to the collision to please contact Dorset Police.”
Young goalkeeper Rafal Danielsson has joined AFC Bournemouth on loan from Fram Reykjavik FC.
The 17-year-old has signed until the end of the season, with the club being given an option to purchase the ‘keeper following the expiry of the loan.
Danielsson has yet to feature for Fram Reykjavik’s first team since coming through their academy and will be mainly training with the club’s under-21 squad throughout his stay on the south coast.
The body of a man has been found in Potterne Park, Verwood.
Police were called to an area of woodland between Potterne Park and Hazelwood Drive in the town on Tuesday morning just after 7am to reports of the sudden death of a man.
Officers attended and very sadly the body of a man was found.
Police say the death is not being treated as suspicious, and the coroner has been informed.
Enquiries are underway to inform the man’s family.
A man who stalked a former Miss Dorset by sending numerous Facebook messages, tried to forcibly kiss her and turned up at her work uninvited has been jailed.
Jonathan Jay Deal, 39 and of Manor Road in Bournemouth, was sentenced at Poole Magistrates’ Court today, Monday 18 February 2019, after pleading guilty to stalking Samantha Bumford between 31 August 2018 and 10 September 2018.
He was sentenced to a six-month jail term. Deal was also issued with an indefinite restraining order. The terms of this order state that deal must not contact Samantha Bumford directly or indirectly or like, comment or share anything on social media in relation to her. He is also banned from contacting a witness in the case directly or indirectly.
Miss Bumford, 25, competes in Miss England events and uses social media to increase her profile with the intention of receiving more votes.
On Friday 22 June 2018 Deal sent Miss Bumford a Facebook friend request, which she accepted. Between that date and Monday 16 July 2018 Deal responded and reacted to her photos, storyline and advertisements by way of supportive emojis.
Deal attended numerous public events where multiple people were invited by the victim, however he appeared to seek out further personal contact with Miss Bumford.
In August 2018 Miss Bumford sent a request to around 200 of her Facebook followers asking for them to comment on an advert for Miss England to support her campaign to win. Deal responded by asking if he could attend to watch her win. Miss Bumford agreed. On Wednesday 29 August 2018 Deal attended the event in Bournemouth and posted a live blog on Facebook stating he was there and in love with Miss Bumford. She was not aware of this and later spoke to Deal, believing he was a fan.
Deal’s behaviour escalated and he made attempts to get into an exclusive tent the victim was in for the Bournemouth Air festival, would wait for hours to speak to her, set up live blogs attempting to find out where she was and bought her a necklace.
At the Miss England finals on Tuesday 4 September 2018 in Nottinghamshire, Deal attempted to grab Miss Bumford as she left the stage and kiss her. She told Deal to get off her but he refused. She had to be forceful to get Deal off her before running to her family who were nearby.
Deal sent Miss Bumford numerous messages in the days after the finals and her father even attempted to intervene by asking Deal to leave his daughter alone.
On Monday 10 September 2018 the victim was walking to work when she was approached by the defendant who said: “The only way you finished in the top 16 was because I told them that I was your boyfriend.” Miss Bumford called the police and on Friday 14 September 2018 Deal was arrested on suspicion of harassment.
Detective Constable Neil Causebrook, of Bournemouth CID, said: “Jonathan Deal became obsessed and fixated with Samantha Bumford and his behaviour escalated over a very short period of time. He stalked and harassed her and caused her a great deal of concern and distress.
“I hope the sentence handed out by the court today will reassure Samantha that she can go about her life without fear of being harassed by Deal again. If he breaches the restraining order he will find himself back before the court.
“Dorset Police recognises the impact stalking and harassment can have on victims – these can be devastating and long-lasting.
“I would encourage anyone who believes they are a victim of stalking or harassment to have the confidence to come forward and contact Dorset Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. We are here to help and have officers trained to support victims and investigate these types of offences.”
Bournemouth only managed one goal against Brighton in the FA Cup 3rd round on Saturday afternoon at Dean Court, losing 3-1.
Marc Pugh scored for Bournemouth 10 minutes into the second half, but it was Knockaert, Bissouma and Andone who scored three for Brighton by Full Time.
A man is due to appear in court in connection with an incident in Wimborne that involved evacuations of nearby properties and road closures.
Dorset Police was called at 3.15am on Tuesday 12 February 2019 to reports of a concern for the welfare of a man at an address at Hayes Close. It was reported that the property contained unknown chemical substances and suspicious items.
Officers attended alongside colleagues from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Army’s bomb disposal team to carry out a thorough search of the property.
As a precaution and to ensure the safety of residents and members of the public, a cordon was set up on Hayes Lane at the junction of Wimborne Road. Properties in Hayes Close were also temporarily evacuated.
A 59-year-old man was detained and taken to Poole Hospital for a welfare assessment and was subsequently arrested.
He has now been charged with possession of an explosive substance for unlawful purpose and importing, acquiring, possessing or using a regulated substance without a licence.
Detective Inspector Wayne Seymour, of Bournemouth CID, said: “I would like to thank all those residents and members of the public who were affected while the emergency services dealt with this incident. I would like to reassure them that the evacuations and road closures were entirely necessary to allow us to respond to this incident and ensure the safety of the public was not compromised.”
The new average speed cameras on the A338 are currently undergoing testing prior to becoming fully operational.
Managed by Dorset Police, the cameras will initially enforce the 40mph speed limit that’s in place for the duration of the works before returning to the 50mph permanent speed limit.
Dorset Council advises motorists, as you approach the traffic management on the southbound carriageway, to plan ahead and get into the correct lane as soon as possible. This will help to improve traffic flow and reduce delays during peak times.
Currently lane one southbound approaching Blackwater is a dedicated lane for those motorists wishing to exit off the slip road to the B3073. All motorists heading to Bournemouth should use lane two of the southbound carriageway.
A new Bike Share scheme will be launched in Bournemouth and Poole this spring after an agreement was reached with its preferred operator, Beryl.
The distinctive emerald green bikes will soon be a familiar sight on the streets and will be available for instant hire via the Beryl App. The App tracks the GPS location of the bike allowing users to easily access and unlock any Beryl bike simply using a smartphone.
The scheme will be launched in spring/summer 2019, with an initial 50 brand new bikes distributed for use at key destinations including rail and bus stations, town centre shopping areas and tourist attractions.
The gradual roll-out of bikes will eventually increase to around 1,000 bikes by the summer months, available for instant hire. The Beryl bikes have three-speed gears and a step-through design, with fully adjustable handlebars and seats for a wide range of riders, from 4’11” to 6’5”.
Riders can choose to pay each time they cycle, or take up an annual membership.
Users will be informed of the location of ‘Beryl Bays’, the preferred parking locations to leave the bikes. However, the scheme is designed with flexibility in mind and will allow users to park the bikes elsewhere, provided they are safely within the scheme area.
Operators will keep track of all the bikes and will “re-balance” them as required to maximise availability.
Beryl has experience in bike share innovation, having been a lighting and technology partner to Transport for London bike share, and providing lights to the bike hire schemes in New York, Montreal and Glasgow. The British company already operates two corporate dockless bike share schemes in London and is accredited with Bikeplus, which is the agreed standard of Best Practice for the industry.
Philip Ellis, Beryl CEO said: “We are really pleased to be working with Bournemouth Borough Council and Poole Borough Council to bring our bike share system to the area. We will be calling on our experience working with world-class bike share schemes, such as those in London and New York, to provide the best service possible in Bournemouth and Poole.”
Councillor Mike Greene, Cabinet Member for Transport, Cleansing and Waste for Bournemouth Borough Council said: “I am delighted that we are partnering with Beryl to deliver an innovative Bike Share solution for our conurbation. The scheme will be a convenient, flexible and affordable option for both residents and visitors to our area.”
Councillor Ian Potter, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Transportation for Borough of Poole stated: “I am looking forward to trying the Beryl bikes and am certain that the ability to hop on and off will prove attractive in encouraging more people to take up cycling.”
There is no initial or ongoing cost to the Councils and Beryl will be responsible for supplying the bikes plus associated equipment as well as management and maintenance of the service. Beryl will also be investing in local cycling infrastructure in the area to ensure maximum efficiency for those riding.
Future developments include the introduction of a fleet of electric bikes for hire and potential expansion of the scheme into Christchurch. Businesses will also be offered the use of shared electric cargo bikes to assist with local deliveries and help cut both carbon emissions and congestion.
Officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a woman was robbed of her mobile phone in Poole.
At 1.15pm on Tuesday 12 February 2019 the 25-year-old victim was walking along Archway Road in the Penn Hill area holding her mobile phone and with headphones over her head when she was grabbed by an unknown woman.
The suspect grabbed the victim’s hand and repeatedly demanded her mobile phone. The victim, who feared she would be harmed, gave the suspect her phone.
The suspect ran off behind the church on the junction of Archway Road and Bournemouth Road toward Norman Motors.
The suspect is described as white, aged in her 30s, pale and with mousy brown hair to below her shoulders. She wore a distinctive red padded coat, blue jeans, beige or brown boots and a light-brown bobby hat. She was described as looking unkempt.
Police Constable Adam Carr, of Poole police, said: “This was a frightening incident for the victim, which occurred in broad daylight. I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the relevant time to please contact me.”
A balanced budget for 2019/20 has been approved by the Shadow Authority Executive ahead of the launch of the new BCP Council.
It will now go before a meeting of the full Shadow Authority on February 21.
The budget has been prepared from financial plans developed by the four shadow authority Delivery Boards – Adults, Children’s, Place and Corporate – working towards a single Medium Term Financial Plan.
The budget process has accounted for the required efficiencies and savings needed but still enables BCP Council to meet all its statutory responsibilities and provide enhanced support to areas such as Social Care for vulnerable adults and children.
The budget recommendation has managed a further £6.9million per annum cut in core annual Government funding and an estimated £105million per annum in reduced Government funding overall since 2010/11. It further prioritises an extra £3.3million in funding for the most vulnerable through increased budgets in Adults’ and Children’s services and continues to protect frontline services as far as possible.
As a result, the total net Budget for 2019/20 is £274million.
Chair of the Shadow Executive, Councillor Janet Walton, said: “This is an historic budget recommendation, the first for the new BCP Council and I am pleased to see it was (fully) approved by the Shadow Executive. An immense amount of work has been done by our Delivery Boards to meet the needs of the proposed Medium Term Financial Plan and the excellent progress which has been made means we have a sound budget proposal for 2019/20 that has been fully supported.
“The new BCP Council is required to set an annual balanced budget explaining how its financial resources, both income and expenditure, are to be allocated and used. In setting the budget for 2019/20 Members recognised their duty to balance this budget in a manner which reflected not only their obligation to current taxpayers but also their responsibilities to future taxpayers.”
It is envisaged that by 2021 the new BCP Council will cease to receive any core Government funding and all services will need to be funded locally from Council Tax, our share of business rates, fees and income.
Chairman of the Finance Task & Finish Group, Councillor John Beesley, said: “I was delighted to be able to present this balanced budget proposal. The new Council’s finances will remain under immense pressure, not only due to the reduction in Government funding but through numerous cost increases and meeting the ever-rising demand for Council services, especially those related to vulnerable adults and children.
“Nevertheless, as part of the Delivery Board process, significant work has been undertaken to determine the efficiencies that can contribute to the established savings targets, largely focussed on the reduction in staff where they become duplicated, for the new Council. These have concentrated on identifying fewer management roles, achieving economies of scale in service delivery and savings made through back office and support functions.”
In terms of Council Tax, the proposed 2019/20 budget is based on the assumption that BCP Council will adopt the Council Tax harmonisation strategy that states no current Council Tax levels levied by the BCP Unitary Authority will rise at a rate exceeding the Government’s cap and that the amount charged in Christchurch will be frozen or reduced until the harmonised rate has been achieved. It was previously decided by the Shadow Executive and endorsed by the Government that an alternative approach which harmonised the rate of council tax on day one was unacceptable as it would lead to many residents having increases above the referendum limit.
Therefore, in the proposed budget, Poole’s Council Tax will rise in line with the Government’s cap of 2.99%, Christchurch’s will be frozen until Poole’s rate has caught up, and Bournemouth’s will increase by slightly less than the Government cap until it too catches up with Christchurch (for 2019/20 this equates to a 2.4% increase). The 2019/20 BCP unitary charge in Christchurch will appear slightly lower than the combined 2018/19 Council Tax charge levied by Dorset County Council and Christchurch Borough Council due to the cost of services transferring to the two new Town Councils (Christchurch Town and Highcliffe & Walkford).
Not including any precepts which may be applicable for some, including the Fire and Police precepts, a BCP unitary band D Council Tax bill for 2019/20 will be:
Bournemouth: £1,473.40 compared to £1,438.92 in 2018/19
Christchurch: £1,598.30 compared to £1,607.16
Poole: £1,441.53 compared to £1,399.68
BCP Council’s Capital programme for the next three years includes £112 million of investment into Council assets and infrastructure and £119 million of Housing Revenue Account spend on local council housing provision.
Unallocated reserves will stand at £15.4million, which is approximately 5.6% of the proposed net revenue expenditure. Under the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy regulations, unitary authorities must hold reserves at between 5% and 10% of net revenue expenditure.
The budget proposal will also recommend a scheme for Members Allowances and the Chief Officers’ Pay Policy.
Officers investigating an assault in Bournemouth are releasing a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.
At around 11.15pm on Friday 1 February 2019 a verbal altercation occurred between two men off Westover Road. One of the men then headbutted the other.
The victim – a man aged in his 20s from the Oxfordshire area – sustained bruising and swelling to his forehead. He did not require medical treatment.
Police Community Support Investigator Chris Wilson, of Bournemouth police, said: “Following enquiries I am now in a position to issue a CCTV image of a man we would like to speak to in connection with the incident.
“I would ask anyone who can identify him to please contact Dorset Police.”
Manor Steps beach near Boscombe is preparing to welcome more overnight visitors with the installation of an extra nine fully equipped Beach Lodges, providing an alternative to traditional overnight accommodation.
The Beach Lodges, which sleep up to four adults and two children, offer the opportunity to wake up with the beach on your doorstep. There are currently 15 Lodges nestled in the cliffs half a mile east of Boscombe Pier, but with demand high, Bournemouth Council has invested in the additional nine Lodges which will be available to book from Easter. An additional lodge is being installed as a Lodges office.
Each bright, airy Lodge has its own hot shower; toilet; kitchenette with electric hob, fridge and microwave; private decking; and WiFi, providing all the comforts of home in a beautiful, tranquil location on our award-winning beaches, with spectacular, uninterrupted sea views.
Councillor John Beesley, Leader, Bournemouth Borough Council commented: “Investing in additional Beach Lodges is an opportunity for Bournemouth Council to generate revenue, whilst providing more of what has proved to be an immensely popular getaway destination. Residents and visitors to Bournemouth are enjoying this innovative offer on the seafront and waking up in this truly superb location.”
The Beach Lodges were installed in dramatic fashion by crane and will be ready for use at Easter. See more at bournemouthbeachlodges.co.uk
Officers are appealing for help from the pubic to find a missing Bournemouth woman.
Searches are being carried out to find Monica Streat, aged 59, who was last seen at an address in Gresham Road at around 9am today, Monday 11 February 2019.
Monica is described as around five feet four inches tall and of medium build with brown, shoulder-length hair that has highlights in. She may have been wearing a red cardigan.
It is believed she may be travelling in a grey Seat Arosa, with the registration number HF05 FXT.
Chief Inspector Lance Cliff, of Dorset Police, said: “We understand Monica has been upset recently and we are becoming concerned for her welfare.
“We are currently carrying out a number of searches in the Bournemouth area and are also making attempts to trace the vehicle she is believed to be driving.
“I would urge anyone with information as to her whereabouts, or who comes across the vehicle described, to contact us.
“I would also like to make a direct plea to Monica if you see this appeal to please contact us or your family as we all want to ensure you are safe and well.”
Detectives investigating a reported burglary in Bournemouth and alleged subsequent card fraud are issuing a CCTV image of a suspect.
Sometime between 3.30pm and 6.30pm on Tuesday 11 December 2018 it is reported a burglary occurred at a flat on Westby Road. A wallet containing bank cards and other personal items was stolen.
It was subsequently reported that a number of failed attempts were made to use one of the bank cards in local shops.
A 40-year-old man from Bournemouth was arrested on suspicion of burglary and has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.
Detective Constable Michelle Lawrence, of Bournemouth CID, said: “As part of my investigation I am now in a position to issue a CCTV image of a suspect for the alleged attempted fraudulent use of the bank card. I would ask anyone who knows who this man is to please contact Dorset Police.”
A burglar who targeted a number of commercial premises in Bournemouth has been jailed.
Harrison Jack Archer, aged 21 and of Holdenhurst Road in Bournemouth, was sentenced to 12 months in prison at Bournemouth Crown Court on Friday 8 February 2019 after admitting five counts of burglary and an attempted burglary.
At around 9pm on Thursday 15 November 2018 two men were seen to smash a window of the Cherries Café in Curzon Road in Boscombe before throwing out a till and leaving the premises.
A further burglary occurred at Grade 92 Barbering in Southbourne Grove between 6pm on Saturday 17 November and 8am on Monday 19 November 2018 with a window smashed and till stolen.
Shortly before 1am on Friday 23 November 2018 entry was gained to Delice de Champs café in Gervis Place. The offender was seen to walk round the counter to the till but nothing was stolen.
Another break-in was reported to have occurred on the night of Tuesday 4 December 2018 at Little Pickles Café in Christchurch Road. Again nothing was stolen but a window was smashed to gain entry.
Following enquiries, evidence was found to link Archer to all four crime scenes and he was arrested on Thursday 6 December 2018.
He also admitted a burglary on Sunday 6 January 2019 at the Nail Lounge in Ashley Road and an attempted burglary involving a garage in Hares Green on the same evening. These offences were committed after he had been released on bail by the court with an electrically-monitored curfew following a hearing on Friday 4 January 2019.
Police Sergeant Adam Gill, of Dorset Police’s Priority Crime Team, said: “Harrison Archer is a repeat offender who targeted a number of commercial premises in the Bournemouth area, even when he had been released by the court on bail. We are determined to protect businesses in the town from offenders such as Archer and I’m glad that through our investigative work we were able to identify him as the man responsible for these offences and bring him before the court to be sentenced.
“We recognise the emotional and financial impact this kind of offending can have on members of the business community and will continue to work with them to ensure they have appropriate security measures in place to help deter offenders such as Archer.
Dorset’s Police and Crime Panel has confirmed that current Chief Constable James Vaughan will continue the job in a permanent capacity.
James Vaughan, who was awarded a Queen’s Police Medal in the 2019 New Year’s Honours list, was appointed to the role at a Confirmation Hearing by the panel at County Hall in Dorchester on Thursday 7 February.
Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill, who interviewed Mr Vaughan for the role and proposed him to the panel, said: “I am delighted with the decision to appoint James Vaughan as the permanent Chief Constable of Dorset and I would like to congratulate him.
“He has shown excellent leadership skills over the last nine months and I am sure James will continue to perform an outstanding role leading the Force as we face the challenges that the next few years have in store.”
James Vaughan began his career in Wiltshire, in 1992, in various uniform and detective roles up to the rank of Chief Superintendent.
He joined Dorset Police as Assistant Chief Constable in 2012 and after being promoted to Deputy Chief Constable in 2013, led on strategic change, performance, professional standards, people and community focus, and media and communication.
He also led various regional programmes, including the forensic service collaboration and the strategic alliance with Devon and Cornwall Police.
In February 2017, Mr Vaughan was appointed Deputy Chief Constable (Chief Operating Officer) for the Dorset, Devon and Cornwall Strategic Alliance. In April 2018, he was appointed Temporary Chief Constable for Dorset.
Police and Crime Panel members have approved plans to raise the amount of money households pay to fund Dorset’s police service by £2 a month.
Martyn Underhill, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Dorset, held a six week consultation into proposals to raise the precept – the part of a council tax bill which funds policing – by £24 a year following on from the advice of the Home Secretary to raise the precept to the maximum permitted.
Now, after just under 70% of those surveyed supported the idea, members of the Dorset Police and Crime Panel – which scrutinises the PCC – gave it their backing at Dorchester’s County Hall on Thursday February 7.
All 15 members of the 17-strong panel who were present during the meeting voted unanimously to approve the plans. Two members were not in attendance.
Martyn Underhill said: “I’m extremely grateful to all of those people who took the time to respond to my survey, and to panel members for supporting the proposals. I’m well aware that many households in the county are struggling financially, and the fact so many have said they would be prepared to pay this extra amount demonstrates how important an effective police service is to them.”
The results of the consultation were presented at the panel meeting. A total of 4,829 people responded – either online, via social media or face-to-face at a series of public events – with 69.31% saying they would be prepared to pay the additional amount. As well as consulting on the proposed precept increase, residents were also asked if they felt that Dorset Police needed more money. 85% agreed that it did.
The enhancement will amount to £7.8m in extra income for Dorset Police, going some way to offset cuts in central funding.
The panel also heard how a £1m Innovation Fund will be set up – funded by a combination of recurring efficiencies in the Force’s budget and from a surplus of previously uncollected council tax receipts – which will pay for initiatives such as extra officers in the rural and marine crime units, improving road safety and providing more help to homeless people.
Martyn Underhill said: “I’ve had a lot of conversations with Dorset residents over the last few weeks and something I’ve heard time and time again is ‘we shouldn’t be paying for this – the government should!’
“I couldn’t agree more – central government have adopted a policy of public sector funding being devolved to local taxpayers for several years now, something I inherently disagree with, as over time, it disadvantages poorer communities.
“This consultation was launched following real terms cuts of more than £25m over the last eight years, while Dorset Police’s budget has had to absorb growing inflation and an unfunded pay increase for officers.
“We’ve also seen a 10% increase in reported crime last year, a 9 % increase in the number of emergency calls, and we’re seeing a huge rise in the number of serious sexual offences.
“Our financial troubles are far from over and I will continue to press the government for a fairer settlement in the new funding formula. However, with prudent saving we will now be able to invest more resources in areas of key concern, such as tackling County Lines drug gangs.
“We’re also going to introduce a volunteer cadet service to help young people play a role in their communities and create a Bobby Van scheme to help vulnerable and older people across the county.”
Today’s meeting concludes the consultation process and the Commissioner’s decision to raise the policing precept stands. The change will come into effect from 1 April 2019.
A man who carried out two knifepoint robberies and committed a string of other theft offences has been jailed for five-and-a-half years.
Gary Boothe, 40 and of no fixed address, was handed the prison term at Bournemouth Crown Court on Monday 4 February 2019 after pleading guilty to two robberies, three theft offences and three counts of possession of a bladed article. He also asked for two theft offences and one attempted theft offence to be taken into consideration.
The first robbery charge relates to an incident which occurred at 9.30am on Thursday 15 November 2018 at Coral bookmakers on Oakdale Road in Poole.
Boothe approached the counter and spoke to a member of staff before walking around the store. He then returned to the counter, opened a burgundy and cream bag and pulled out a breadknife, which was around six inches long. Boothe made numerous demands for money. He then climbed onto the counter and crawled along it. The member of staff, fearful for his safety, emptied the contents of the till and safe into the bag. Boothe left the store with approximately £720.
The second robbery occurred at 11.12am on Saturday 17 November 2018 at Bet Fred on Commercial Road in Bournemouth. Boothe entered the shop, waited for a male member of staff to go on his break and approached a lone female cashier. He pulled a knife from his holdall and threatened the cashier. He then jumped over the counter and ordered her to empty notes and change from the till and safe into the bag. He left with around £2,240.
Boothe was arrested and interviewed over two days on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 November 2018 after he was positively picked out during an identity procedure and his fingerprint was forensically linked to the scene.
He was also arrested and charged in connection with a cash theft at Co-op on Queens Road in Bournemouth on Monday 15 October 2018, theft of a large quantity of stock from Vape of Good Hope on Fairmile Road in Christchurch on Tuesday 16 October 2018 and theft of an iPad Mini from Solutions Inc. in Old Christchurch Road in Bournemouth the same day. He later pleaded guilty to these offences.
During the incident at Co-op a member of staff attempted to shut Boothe’s hands in the till as he stole the money. As Boothe ran out of the store, he dropped a Co-op bag containing a large kitchen knife.
At sentencing Boothe was told once released from prison he would have to serve an extended licence period of a further five years and three months due the danger he poses to the public. The judge praised the victims of the robberies and theft at the Co-op for their “impeccable bravery” with what they were faced with.
Detective Constable Aimee Lloyd, of Bournemouth CID, said: “Gary Boothe was responsible for targeting businesses in and around the Bournemouth and Poole areas over a sustained period of time.
“He took a knife to the bookmakers and threatened a member of staff for his own gain. This must have been a terrifying experience for them.
“Dorset Police takes offences such as this extremely seriously and we will do everything in our power to investigate these incidents and bring offenders such as Boothe before the court.”
Bournemouth Borough Council has erected a No U-Turn sign on the Blackwater slip-off along the A338 to stop motorists trying to jump ahead of the queues.
Commuters heading south on the A338 must use the right lane if heading to Bournemouth as the roadworks approach, but some have been using the left lane, which typically has less traffic, doing a U Turn then getting back on at the same junction.
In a message to road users, the council says: “We encourage road users to be considerate of others and refrain from using the exit off at Blackwater Junction to jump ahead of the southbound traffic. There is a legitimate property access at Blackwater and we ask you to drive safely and avoid making U-turn manoeuvres in this area, on the slip roads or at the traffic lights.
“Please think ahead, follow the traffic signs and get into the appropriate lane as soon as possible. Lane one southbound approaching Blackwater is a dedicated lane for those motorists wishing to exit off the slip road to the B3073. All motorists heading to Bournemouth should use lane two of the southbound carriageway.”
The roadworks are set to continue till June 2019.
More than £58,000 worth of drugs and cash has been seized by Dorset Police during a crackdown week on suspected ‘county lines’ dealers.
Between Monday 21 and Friday 25 January 2019, 38 people were arrested on suspicion of drug-related offences during a week of targeted action.
Of these arrests, five were juveniles and are being safeguarded by partner agencies.
Safe and well checks were conducted at vulnerable adult addresses and relevant safeguarding has now been put in place to support these individuals.
Superintendent Caroline Naughton said: “Safeguarding vulnerable people is one of our biggest priorities. County lines exploit vulnerable young people and coerce them to commit criminal activity. This week was an intensification of our existing work to tackle suspected drug-related crime. While I’m extremely pleased with the work carried out this week, our efforts to tackle county lines are ongoing and relentless.”
County lines is the name given to urban drug dealers expanding their activities into smaller towns and rural areas.
Gangs will use people, including teenagers from other parts of the country, to come to Dorset and supply drugs. They will often target vulnerable people and move into their address against their will. Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill said: “County lines is a growing problem, not just in Dorset but across the country. It is something that the police can’t tackle alone. We need the support of our communities to continue to provide information to Dorset Police about suspected drug-related offences.”
Detective Inspector Charlotte Tucker, Regional Coordinator for County Lines, said: “With 90 arrests and more than £50,000 seized across the South West in the past week alone, it’s clear there is targeted action being taken against Lines operating in our region. Equally important is the work done to identify vulnerable young people and adults being exploited by drug gangs, which included visits to more than 200 currently or previously ‘cuckooed’ addresses.
“But, we know that every day more young people and vulnerable adults are being targeted by these gangs and the challenge of dismantling these Lines is a very real one, not just for law enforcement, but for safeguarding, health and education professionals as well. As a region, we continue to strengthen our response.”
Detectives investigating a robbery in Poole are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
Dorset Police received a report that at around 8pm on Saturday 2 February 2019 two male victims, aged 17 and 18, were in a black Vauxhall Corsa in Arne Avenue when they saw a group of four white male teenagers, aged around 16 to 17.
One of the victims shouted out to the group as he thought he saw someone recognised, but it turned out not to be him.
The group then approached the car and demanded that the victims get out and give them everything they had. It was reported that they shot at the victims with what was believed to be a BB gun and also smashed the car windscreen using a hammer or crowbar.
The group took one of the victim’s keys before making off when he told them that police would be on their way.
Officers attended and a search of the area was carried out but the offenders were not located. Neither of the victims sustained any serious injuries that required hospital treatment.
Detective Constable Neil Causebrook, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This must have been a very distressing incident for the victims and I would like to reassure members of the public that a full investigation is underway to identify those responsible.
“We are carrying out a number of enquiries and I would ask anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area around the time of the offence, or who has any information that can assist our investigation, to contact us.”
Officers investigating a theft at a store in Poole are issuing CCTV images of the suspects.
At around 12.40pm on Saturday 12 January 2019 two men entered Halfords in Ringwood Road and took three bike turbo trainers, with a total value of just under £680, before making off without paying.
Police Sergeant Carmel Ryan, of Dorset Police, said: “As part of our ongoing investigation into this incident we are issuing CCTV images of the two men in the hope that someone will recognise them.
“We would also like to hear from anyone who has been offered a turbo trainer for sale in unusual circumstances.”
