Message From Inspector 1144 Head

Message From Inspector 1144 Head

Good afternoon, all,

As the darker mornings and earlier evenings continue, we are experiencing a seasonal increase in acquisitive crime, particularly burglaries, across West Lindsey.

On 29th October 2026, police received a report of a residential burglary on Prebend Lane, Welton. During the incident, a handbag containing a small amount of cash and a bank card was stolen. The offence is believed to have occurred between 11:00am and 7:35pm, with entry gained through an insecure front door. 

Later that day, at approximately 6:00pm, police were called to a burglary at a construction site on Foxby Hill, Gainsborough. Offenders forced entry to the site by breaching the perimeter Harris fencing. A container was targeted, with wiring and diesel stolen, and a mini digger was also taken from the premises.

On 30th October 2026, police received a report of a burglary at a property on Caistor Road, Market Rasen. The occupant had been away from the address between 25th and 30th October and returned to find a window ajar. Enquiries into the circumstances remain ongoing.

On 2nd November 2026, officers attended reports of a house fire on Salisbury Street, Gainsborough. Due to the severity of the blaze, two fire engines attended alongside police officers. Following initial information received, a 55-year-old male was identified as a suspect and arrested on suspicion of arson. However, as enquiries progressed, he was released with no further action. The investigation culminated on 5th November when Anthony Waring, aged 50, was charged and remanded in custody for arson with intent to endanger life, arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered, and possession of a Class A controlled drug.

In the early hours of 5th November, at approximately 4:00am, police received a report from a member of the public that an individual was trying vehicle door handles on Kestrel Avenue, Gainsborough. Following a prompt response by officers, a 52-year-old male was detained and arrested on suspicion of vehicle interference. At the time of writing, he remains in police custody while enquiries continue.

Halloween saw a notable increase in reports of antisocial behaviour across Gainsborough. These incidents predominantly involved a small group of individuals already known to both Lincolnshire Police and West Lindsey District Council. I fully understand and share the community's frustrations regarding the time required to progress through the enforcement processes available to both organisations, as these do not always deliver the immediate resolution residents understandably expect. I am currently working with a local councillor to arrange a community meeting where residents will have the opportunity to discuss the impact of antisocial behaviour and hear about the measures being taken to address it.

We have also seen an increase in reports of so-called “Nottingham Knockers”. These individuals typically cold-call at residential addresses attempting to sell household items, often claiming to have recently been released from prison. Several residents have reported that these individuals have been persistent, verbally aggressive, or intimidating when attempting to make sales. I would encourage residents not to open the door to anyone they do not recognise or are not expecting. Free “No Cold Callers” stickers are available from Lincolnshire Police upon request.

I continue to seek volunteers to support the development of the Police Cadets programme. Cadet sessions will run on Wednesday evenings from 7:00pm to 9:00pm during school term time. Anyone interested in volunteering as a Cadet Leader can find further information via the Lincolnshire Police website under Cadet Leader Volunteer (Ref: 38).

Finally, I would encourage residents to ask family members, friends and neighbours to sign up to Lincs Alert. This free service provides local policing updates, crime prevention advice and community safety information directly from Lincolnshire Police.

Thank you for your continued support.

Stay safe, remain vigilant, and please continue to work with us to help keep our communities safe.