Local inspector quarterly update

Local inspector quarterly update

Hello, I’m Dan Gahagan. I’m the Local Policing Unit (LPU) Inspector for Derby West, which covers the areas of Mickleover, Littleover, Abbey, Rosehill & Normanton. I write to bring you the quarterly policing update for the LPU.

We have experienced a very busy summer across all areas, but I’m pleased to say we are achieving good results despite this. The 5 response teams have continued to work tirelessly to service all incoming demand from reported incidents and crime. By working closely with neighbourhood policing teams and partner agencies, response officers not only deal with immediate incidents but also help identify longer-term solutions that keep our communities safe. I am proud of the commitment shown by our response teams, who continue to work towards providing an outstanding service while facing the daily challenges of modern policing with resilience, compassion, and professionalism.

My Safer Neighbourhood Teams continue to be led by Sergeant’s Neil Dutton & Mark Sharma, and PCSO Supervisor Sam Coleman. Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNT) play a vital role in building trust, tackling local concerns and maintaining a visible policing presence within our communities. By working closely with partners, the team develop a detailed understanding of the issues that matter most to local people. Whether addressing anti-social behaviour, identifying vulnerable individuals, preventing crime, or supporting community initiatives, their proactive approach helps create safer and stronger neighbourhoods. Through regular engagement and problem-solving, Safer Neighbourhood Teams ensure that policing remains connected to the communities we serve and responsive to their needs.

Both SNT’s have achieved some impressive results recently with several proactive operations resulting in numerous arrests for drug supply offences. Not only this, but they also continue to work with the Project Flex team to deliver the clear phase, of Clear, Hold & Build. This work is amongst their ‘normal business’, which in turn works towards making your areas safer to live in, work in, and visit.

An exciting initiative has also started, funded by the Home Office, within Abbey & Rosehill areas called the Knife Crime Concentration Fund. The objective of the initiative is to reduce knife related crime through a problem-solving approach, using the money granted to us to fund long term solutions to knife related offending. We have commenced this work and invite suggestions from the community. Our online contact options are available on the website, comment on this post, or speak to a member of the team at any of our events.

The final quarter of the year started on 1st October 2026, and I have agreed the SNT priorities for each area for this quarter. The priorities can be found on the Derbyshire Constabulary website in the ‘Your Area’ section. These priorities are agreed based on data we have from reported incidents and crime, community voice, and the local knowledge of our officers. This is where reporting matters to us is important, so that we can properly understand the issues within your area and target resources appropriately to them.

I wish you all well over the autumn and winter months and look forward to bringing you my next update, which will be in the New Year.