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Message From Inspector 1144 Head |
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Good morning all,
I would like to begin by acknowledging the tragic news regarding the death of a 16-year-old boy who lost his life after getting into difficulty whilst swimming at Swanholme Lakes. Sadly, this is the second incident this summer in which a teenager has drowned at this location. This heartbreaking incident serves as a timely reminder of the dangers associated with open-water swimming. Whilst it may be tempting to enter open water to cool down during periods of hot weather, many locations contain hidden hazards, unpredictable currents and the risk of cold-water shock. I would strongly encourage everyone to use only designated swimming venues where lifeguards are present and appropriate safety measures are in place. You can read our update on this incident here: Update: Incident at Swanholme Lakes, Lincoln | Lincolnshire Police
I am pleased to report that our new Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) have now officially joined the team and are currently undertaking a 10-week tutorship period on their respective beats before being signed off as independent officers. From my interactions with them so far, I have been extremely impressed by the progress they have made during their training. They are a welcome addition to the team and bring our staffing levels to the strongest position we have seen since I have been in post.
I would also like to make residents aware of the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) funding available through Lincolnshire Police. Administered by the Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner, these funds are dedicated to supporting local crime prevention and community safety initiatives. The funding is not solely intended for policing operations and can instead be invested in projects that help reduce crime, tackle anti-social behaviour and improve community wellbeing. Organisations and individuals can apply for grants of up to £5,000. I am keen to work with local groups and community organisations across West Lindsey to ensure strong applications are submitted and that money seized from criminals is reinvested into the communities affected by crime. If you would like more information, or have ideas for projects that could benefit from this funding, please contact me by responding to this message via Lincs Alert or by email.
Following concerns raised with both the police and West Lindsey District Council regarding street drinking and alcohol-related anti-social behaviour affecting local businesses in Gainsborough, a 48-hour dispersal order was implemented. The order achieved its intended purpose by providing businesses with immediate relief, whilst partnership working with West Lindsey District Council enabled longer-term measures to be developed. This work has already resulted in five individuals being issued with Community Protection Warning Notices in relation to the impact of their behaviour on the wider community. It sends a clear message that the police and partner agencies are committed to addressing the issues that matter most to local residents and businesses and to delivering lasting solutions.
Finally, I would like to highlight the commendation awarded on 30 June to three Gainsborough-based officers: Acting Sergeant Greensmith, PC Pilfold and PC Clark. The officers responded to an incident involving a young child who had suffered a cardiac arrest. Whilst maintaining contact with ambulance services, they took turns delivering lifesaving CPR until further medical assistance arrived. All three officers worked in excess of 15 hours during what was an exceptionally demanding shift, and their actions ultimately saved the child's life. I am immensely proud of their professionalism, dedication and resilience, and it is only right that their outstanding efforts are recognised.
I am fully aware of the concerns sometimes raised regarding police attendance times. Like many forces across the country, we must prioritise our resources using a threat, harm and risk-based approach. Incidents involving an immediate risk to life will always take precedence and often require significant staffing and resources. Such incidents occur more frequently than many people realise and can, unfortunately, result in delays to our response to other calls for service. I hope the example above helps demonstrate the difficult decisions officers and staff must make every day whilst striving to keep our communities safe.
Officer recruitment is currently open. If you are interested in learning more about joining Lincolnshire Police, please visit our website: Apply now to become a police officer | Lincolnshire Police
For residents in West Lindsey who are considering a career in policing, I would be happy to offer advice and guidance throughout the application process. I can be contacted at:
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