Agenda item

Update from Chief Superintendent Chris Bowen, District Commander Oldham.

Consideration was given to a presentation from the Chief Superintendent of Oldham which advised Members on Policing in Oldham.

Members were informed of the purpose of the Police which was to fight, prevent and reduce crime, keep people safe and care for victims. It was explained how those goals would be met underpinned by their values. It was explained that all Councillors would be receiving quarterly updates from Greater Manchester Police which would be area specific.

Members were advised that crime in Oldham had massively increased as reported in the end of year report following criticism that crimes were not being reported. There had been an increase in stalking, domestic abuse and coercion. It was noted that although incidents could have around four crimes associated, the majority of the time involved one victim. Logs were now being looked at on a weekly basis and the number of crimes recorded had significantly increased. It was explained that no locality would record 100% of all crimes however, Oldham was recording a high 80%. Crime numbers were being compared to the 2019/20 year to get a more accurate representation due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Members were provided a breakdown of call and the grading system. For grade 1, Officers were expected to be at the scene within 15 minutes. Oldham had reached a target of 64.1% which was inadequate compared to the target rate of 90%. A new grading system was being introduced in February 2022 which would ensure crimes were given the correct grades. For those that would be considered grade 3, victims would be given a mutually convenient appointment time. This would solve the issues of discouragement from callers in reporting crimes.

Members were informed of the recent operation Vortex which had the following outcomes:

·         Arrests – 17 prisoners for an array of offences.

·         Weapon seizures – 3 x knives, 1 x machete and 1 x axe

·         Drugs seizures – Significant quantities of cannabis along with quantities of cocaine, heroin and crack cocaine (values not known at this time).

·         2 x Cannabis street warnings issued.

·         16 vehicles seized (13 for no insurance and or license and 3 stolen motor vehicles originally taken from different areas of Greater Manchester.

·         17 individuals summonsed to court for driving offences

·         5 Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency prohibition notices issued.

Members asked for and received clarification on the following:

·         How crimes were being handled with not enough Officers on the streets. It was explained that two major reviews were in process that would look at both patrols and neighbourhood teams. It was hoped for a net gain for Oldham however, this had not yet been confirmed.

·         The length of time to respond to Elected Member queries. It was noted that there was no data available on this however, queries would be responded to as quickly as possible. Members would also be given a direct number for the inspectorate team to help speed up the process.

RESOLVED that:

1.    The presentation be noted.

2.    An update be provided to the Committee in March 2022.