At a Glance
- 5,400 hours of high-visibility patrols across Southend this summer
- 105 arrests made and 167 stop searches conducted
- 63 drivers reported for traffic offences, many linked to seafront car cruises
- Essex Police praised for teamwork and maintaining a positive atmosphere
- Year-round patrols continue to keep Southend safe
T he officers who policed the busiest areas of Southend this summer spent more than 5,400 hours on high-visibility patrols and answered 407 calls for assistance.
A team of ten PCs and two sergeants were based at the Jubilee Beach office from mid-May until mid-September, covering an area from the top of Southend High Street down to Marine Parade and along to Shoeburyness and Old Leigh.
In total, officers made 105 arrests across the 116 days of the operation for offences including drug possession and breaches of public order.
There were 167 stop searches conducted – 61 of which ended with the discovery of prohibited items – and 63 Community Resolutions were issued. Sixty-three drivers were reported for traffic offences, many relating to seafront car cruises.
Officers Praised for Efforts
The operation was coordinated by T/Inspector Steve Wells who said his officers had played their part in the positive atmosphere in the city:“Southend continues to be an incredibly popular summer destination and it was great to see so many families having fun and enjoying the good weather.
“We know the public like to see us out on patrol, so we’ve been as visible as possible and made sure people know we’re there to help them and deal with any incidents before they escalate.
“When we have needed to step in and take action, our team have been on the spot quickly but on the whole, it’s been very peaceful and there’s been a really good feeling in the city with lots of great events going on.
“We’ve had excellent support from the seafront traders and colleagues at the council, BTP and our two main trainline operators. It’s been a real team effort, and we all have the same aim – to make sure everyone in Southend enjoys themselves and stays safe.”
Year-Round Patrols Continue
“Although the operation on the seafront is over for another summer, officers from our Neighbourhood Policing Team are out on patrol across the city throughout the year, preventing crime and helping people.”
Cllr Martin Terry, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services, added:
“This summer has gone very well in Southend, with high police visibility and swift action taken where necessary.
“Our Community Safety Unit has worked tirelessly alongside the police and the business community to keep our streets safe and welcoming. Southend is a city that’s open for business, not for crime.”
By Essex Police
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