Police crack down on violent crime and anti social behaviour in Romford Town Centre.

Police officers from Romford Town centre yesterday (Thursday 2 March) held a briefing on South Street just after 6pm following the multiple stabbings this week.

Sergeant Sarah Wolf and Sergeant James Gaskin spoke openly and frankly about the amount of work teams are doing in the area to crack down on violent crime and anti social behaviour. The two officers clearly addressed residents concerns and worries and informed them that there are teams out everyday working in uniform and plain clothes across Romford town centre.

Residents wanted to see an increase in stop and search and Sergeant Gaskin stated that officers were undertaking stop and search but every time an arrest is made, officers are then off the beat for many hours completing paperwork.

Members of the public were also unhappy to see youths wearing balaclavas and gloves and were keen to stop this in Romford. Sergeant Wolf answered that the wearing of balaclavas was not illegal, however officers were actively clamping down on antisocial behaviour.

Anti knife crime campaigner Sue Hedges who lost her son Ricky Hayden to the knife in 2016 spoke out against the inadequate justice system that sees police officers arrest suspects and the courts then release the individual who goes on to repeat again.

The two officers were clear and open about their work and the difficulties they face. Well done to them for hosting the meeting and answering all the questions thrown at them.

Unfortunately the police have faced years of brutal cuts that has left the service short on officers. They are also criticised for under taking stop and search and then complained for not doing stop and search, so seem to not win what ever they do.

The meeting was held to inform residents of the work officers are doing and to reassure them that they are out on our streets.

Havering Council Leader, Councillor Ray Morgon attended alongside Cabinet Member for policing Councillor Barry Mugglestone. GLA Member for Havering Keith Prince was also present.

‘We are making sure that Romford is not a friendly place for those wishing to come and commit crime here,’ finished Sergeant Wolf.

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!

We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.

Support Local Journalism
We at The Havering Daily appreciate your support of quality journalism. Your generous donation, no matter the size, allows us to continue bringing unbiased and informative news to the community. Your contribution helps us maintain our independence and allows us to continue providing high-quality journalism. Thank you for valuing the work we do and for supporting our mission

Thank you