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A businessman has been convicted of keeping a group of men as slaves – after he made them work 90-hour weeks in return for takeaway food and alcohol. Landlord Hargit Singh Bariana, 46, targeted vulnerable men who were left without homes due to alcoholism and drug addiction. The victims were all white British men – which the lead investigator said should challenge peoples’ perceptions of these types of cases which have previously predominantly seen victims trafficked from abroad. Bariana provided the men with accommodation, took all their housing benefit as payment and forced them to work. They were made to clean sewage pipes by hand and work 13-hour days in their bare feet. They did not receive a wage. Instead they were offered takeaway food and alcohol. Bariana would rely on their addictions and lack of accommodation to force them to work. If the victims refused he would then resort to violence and intimidation. It wasn’t until officers raided a property in the town linked to anti-social behaviour and drug use that police uncovered the offences. They found a number of men living in horrendous conditions who were initially too terrified to speak about their ordeal. When they did disclose the whole story to police, Bariana was arrested and later charged with eight offences under the Modern Day Slavery Act. Bariana, of Blue House Farm, Netherton, Bedlington, was charged with eight counts of requiring a person to perform forced or compulsory labour between 2009 and 2015. And at Newcastle Crown Court today (16 May) he was found guilty by a jury of six of those offences. He was also convicted of being concerned in the supply of Diazepam. Bariana was found not guilty of two of the force labour charges and also acquitted on a single count of robbery. He was remanded into custody by a judge and will be sentenced on the week commencing June 18 at the same court. Following the conviction, Chief Inspector Helena Barron said: “Hargit Bariana preyed on vulnerable victims for his own gain. “He relied on the fact that they were homeless with addictions to keep them under his control. “If they did not work then they feared they would lose their home and be unable to feed their addictions. “Previous slavery cases have highlighted the trafficking of vulnerable victims from abroad to work in this country. However, in this case all of the victims were white British men – which challenges people’s perception of this type of crime and highlights the fact anyone could find themselves subject to such offences. “It is a lesson for everyone that a victim of modern day slavery can come from any walk of life and any background. “Our message is that if something doesn’t look right then it probably isn’t right and we would encourage people to contact the police. “Often people don’t realise they are victims of slavery – so it is important in order to tackle this type of crime that we encourage local communities to stay vigilant and alert. “I want to take this opportunity to thank the victims in this case who have shown great bravery. “I would also like to recognise the hard work of our officers on this case, and for their continued efforts to target offenders benefiting at the expense of others. “Under the banner of Sanctuary, protecting those who find themselves vulnerable through a whole range of crimes including modern day slavery, is Northumbria Police’s number one priority.” Anyone who thinks they are a victim or any members of the public who have concerns about modern day slavery happening near them should ring police on 101 or call the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700.

A man has appeared in court after being charged following a spate of robberies in Newcastle. Andrew Robinson, 38, from Newlands in Gosforth, Newcastle has been charged with three counts of robbery, two counts of possessing an offensive weapon and one count of imitation firearm. One incident occurred at around 2.30pm, on March 15, at Nisa Local, St James Street in Gosforth, where the offender used a hammer to threaten staff into handing over money. The other two took place on March 23, the first at around 6.15am at the Shell Garage in Gosforth where the offender used an imitation firearm to steal a quantity of cash. The second robbery that day was at around 5.30pm, at Omers Convenience Store, Addycombe Terrace in Heaton, where the offender again used a hammer to threaten staff into handing over money. Robinson appeared at Bedlington Magistrates Court on March 26 and will next appear at Newcastle Crown Court on April 23.

Police investigating the death of a man found unconscious in Bedlington this morning can now confirm that they do not believe there to be any third party involvement. Officers were called to the Spar on Station Road, Bedlington at 5.40am, today (March 6), after the body of a man was found. Emergency services attended and the man was taken to hospital where he sadly died. Police believe that the man may have been a victim of robbery prior to his death however, that his death is not linked to the incident. A 43-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of robbery and is currently in police custody. Police are asking anyone who saw anything suspicious to get in touch with Northumbria police and quote reference number 115 06/03/18 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

More than £750,000 in cash and suspected Class A drugs has been seized by police after raids in Gateshead this week. The raids were conducted by officers from Northumbria Police on Monday following an intelligence-gathering operation into the suspected supply of Class A drugs in the North East. During the operation £250,000 in cash and more than 5kg of what is believed to be cocaine was seized which has an estimated street value of more than £500,000. Detective Inspector Don Gibson, who has been leading on the operation, said it was satisfying to be able to take a significant amount of what are believed to be Class A drugs off the street. He said: "We have carried out months of intelligence gathering into suspected drugs supply and this has enabled us to seize a significant haul of what is believed to Class A drugs. "It is believed to be cocaine and so what we have seized could be worth as much as £1 million which is one of the biggest seizures we have had. "Illegal drugs have a huge impact on our local communities whether that be through the supply itself or the associated violence and disorder that comes with it. "Our officers will continue to gather intelligence on any suspected illegal activity and would encourage the public to report suspicious behaviour to us. "By working together to take illegal substances off the streets, we can continue to make the Northumbria area a safer place for residents and visitors alike." During the raids four men and one woman were arrested by police and this morning the four men were charged in connection with the seizures. They appeared before magistrates in Bedlington today charged with being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs. Three of the men were remanded in custody until the next hearing at Newcastle Crown Court while a fourth man was released on bail. The woman arrested following Monday's operation has been released under investigation.

Neighbourhood police officers in Bedlington are out on patrol and you can see where they have been. Throughout January, officers in Bedlington are using the tracking Strava to show the public where they have been on patrol that day. Strava is a website and app most commonly used to track athletic activity using GPS. A different officer each day will be using the account to track their movements on patrol, posting their route once finished, as well as take photos engaging with the public. This comes after a survey claimed more than 50% of the public hadn’t seen a uniformed officer in the last 12 months. The Strava account can be accessed by anyone through searching for Bedlington Police on the website or alternatively you can follow their progress on their Twitter @Bedlingtonpol. Neighbourhood Sergeant Rebecca Felton said: “This is a great way of not only engaging with the public, but also showing the community we are on patrol and have a visible presence. “We encourage members of the public to log on and see the route and distance covered that day. You can always try to beat our step count and see if you can see us out and about.”

A burglar is behind bars for Christmas thanks to quick action by local residents in Newcastle. At around 11.45pm officers on the Newcastle North Neighbourhood Policing Team received a report that a man was attempting to break into vehicles and garages on the Great Park estate. Officers responded and a man was arrested nearby matching the description provided by the public. Karl Devlin, 27, of no fixed abode, was charged with burglary other than dwelling, two counts of interfering with a motor vehicle and two counts of possession of a class B drug. And at Bedlington Magistrates Court this morning (Tues) Devlin pleaded guilty to the charges against him and was sentenced to 17 weeks in prison. He is one of a number of burglars convicted as part of Operation Sleigh – Northumbria Police’s festive campaign to put burglars behind bars this Christmas. PC Gareth Welsh said: “We just want to say thank you to residents in Great Park who were vigilant and reported this incident to police. “We were able to respond quickly and identify a suspect in the area before anything of significant value was stolen. “As a result of their quick action a burglar is now behind bars for Christmas and he won’t be able to ruin this time of the year for any other members of our local communities. “It is always really positive when the public can work together with police to help us take opportunist thieves like Karl Devlin off the streets.”

Police have released CCTV footage of two people they would like to speak to in connection with the use of a suspected stolen bank card. The bank card was used at The Premier shop in Blyth on Monday, October 16. It followed an overnight house burglary, Sunday into Monday, October 15-16, at Woburn Drive, Bedlington Station, where a bank card was reported stolen. Anyone who recognises either person is asked to ring 101, quoting reference 0185 of 16/10/17 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Three men have been charged after four armed robberies targeting taxi drivers in recent weeks in Newcastle and Gateshead. The robberies were carried out by offenders who initially got into the taxis, acting as fare paying passengers, directing the driver to a destination and then threatening and robbing them of cash and other property. The first happened on Diana Street in Newcastle, in the early hours of Thursday, October 19, when a taxi driver was robbed at gunpoint, by two men. Next, a driver was the victim of a knifepoint robbery with three offenders near Priory Court in Gateshead on Friday morning, November 3. Two further gun point robberies took place in Byker with two offenders responsible, both crimes in the early hours of Monday, November 6, both on Brinkburn Street after they earlier picked up fares from other locations. The taxi drivers targeted in these crimes were shocked by the incidents but otherwise unharmed and have been helping police. Detectives in Newcastle investigating these crimes have charged three men: A 20-year-old man from Gateshead, charged with one robbery, and threatening a person with a bladed instrument. An 18-year-oold man, from Newcastle, charged with three robberies and two counts of possessing an imitation firearm and threatening a person with a bladed instrument, they both appeared before Bedlington Magistrates' on Thursday, November 9. The third man is due before Bedlington Magistrates court today, Friday, November 10. He is also aged 18, from Newcastle, charged with four robberies, three counts of possessing an imitation firearm and threatening a person with a bladed instrument.

From Monday November 13th, until the end of Sunday November 26th, Northumbria Police will take part in Operation Aztec. Operation Aztec is part of a National Firearms Surrender, giving members of the community an opportunity to safely and anonymously dispose of firearms and ammunition. The purpose of the surrender is to reduce the risk of harm to the public as well as protecting our communities. Previously such items have included weapons that have been overlooked, antiques, inheritances or that belong to family and friends. This is a surrender not an amnesty. This surrender does not mean that the police will not investigate any offences prior to its surrender and the public should be reassured that we will continue to vigorously investigate offences linked to any firearm we receive. Northumbria Police’s Chief Inspector Dave Gould our local lead on the surrender said: “This surrender gives people an opportunity to safely and anonymously dispose of firearms and ammunition in a safe environment. “The more firearms and ammunition out of harm’s way helps us keep our communities safe, avoids the risk of them getting into the wrong hands and the possibility of them being used in crime. “The surrender not only applies to firearms and ammunition, but includes replica firearms, air weapons, BB guns, imitation firearms, component parts and other ballistic items. No firearm will be refused. “Fortunately Northumbria has a low number of firearm related crimes however, we want to do all we can to get these types of weapons off our streets and out of our communities. Every weapon we retrieve has the potential to save a life and I urge people to get involved and do the right thing.” While there are designated police stations for the surrender, the public can go to any police station and they will accept any and all firearms and ammunition. For a list of designated police stations please see below: Alnwick Prudhoe Street, Alnwick, NE66 1UJ - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Ashington Lintonville Terrace, Ashington, NE63 8HD - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Bedlington Schalksmuhle Road, Bedlington, NE22 7LA - 8am to 8pm (7 days a week) Berwick Church Street, Berwick upon Tweed, TD15 1DZ - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Byker Clifford Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 1EA - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Etal Lane Etal Lane, Westerhope, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 4AW - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Gateshead High West Street, Gateshead, NE8 1BN - 8am to 8pm (7 days a week) Hexham Shaftoe Leazes, Hexham, NE46 3DG - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Houghton-le-Spring Dairy Lane, Houghton le Spring, DH4 5BL - 10am to 2pm (5 days a week) Newcastle City Centre Forth Banks, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3PH - 8am to 8pm (7 days a week North Shields Upper Pearson Street, North Shields, NE30 1AB - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) South Shields Millbank, Station Road, South Shields, NE33 1RR - 8am to 8pm (7 days a week) Southwick Church Bank, Southwick, Sunderland, SR5 2DU - 8am to– 8pm (7 days a week) Wallsend Middle Engine Lane, Wallsend, NE28 9NT - 8am to 8pm (7 days a week) Washington The Galleries, Washington, NE38 7RY - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Whickham Front Street, Whickham, NE16 4HE - 9am to – 5pm (5 days a week) For frequently asked questions please see below: Q1) How long will the surrender campaign last? A) Police forces are encouraged to run the campaign for two weeks between 13 and 26 November this year. Q2) What is the main purpose of the firearms surrender? A) To reduce the volume of guns in circulation in the UK which could get into the hands of criminals. A surrender could save lives. Q3) How effective are these campaigns for targeting real criminals? A) Several forces have held gun surrenders since the last national surrender three years ago and this has resulted in hundreds of firearms and rounds of ammunition being handed in. This can only be a good thing. It takes the weapons out of circulation and out of the hands of criminals. Q4) What items do you think will be handed in? A) In previous campaigns there have been various weapons handed in including antique guns, air weapons, rifles, shotguns. We hope many weapons will be surrendered across the UK. If you want to safely dispose of a firearm you can contact your local police force for advice by dialling 101. Q5) What is the difference between an amnesty and a gun surrender? A) An amnesty exists around a particular point in time when a firearm is surrendered to a lawful authority. Any possession or use of the gun prior to that may be considered for prosecution. The amnesty is not valid for the lifetime of the firearm. Police may still consider prosecution linked to any offences committed before the weapon is handed in during a surrender campaign. The message we want to get out is that anyone with a gun they don’t want or do not legally hold should give it up during the surrender campaign and not wait for the police to turn up at their address. Q6) What will happen to all the guns handed in? A) A proportion of the firearms will be destroyed but some may be retained by armourers if they are of significant interest, unusual, etc. Any guns which can be proved to be linked to crime will be kept as evidence and retained for any future court case proceedings. Q7) If gun crime levels have been falling why do we need surrender campaigns? A) It is true that gun crime levels generally have dropped in the last decade and compared to other countries our gun crime levels are low. However latest figures show gun crime is now on the rise and we cannot be complacent about the continued threat to our communities from criminals with access to guns. NABIS, working together with UK police forces, are determined to carry on suppressing the threat. Gun surrenders are one way to show the public how seriously we all take this issue. We want to get as many firearms out of circulation and off the streets as possible. One gun in the wrong hands can have catastrophic consequences.

From Monday November 13th, until the end of Sunday November 26th, Northumbria Police will take part in Operation Aztec. Operation Aztec is part of a National Firearms Surrender, giving members of the community an opportunity to safely and anonymously dispose of firearms and ammunition. The purpose of the surrender is to reduce the risk of harm to the public as well as protecting our communities. Previously such items have included weapons that have been overlooked, antiques, inheritances or that belong to family and friends. This is a surrender not an amnesty. This surrender does not mean that the police will not investigate any offences prior to its surrender and the public should be reassured that we will continue to vigorously investigate offences linked to any firearm we receive. Northumbria Police’s Chief Inspector Dave Gould our local lead on the surrender said: “This surrender gives people an opportunity to safely and anonymously dispose of firearms and ammunition in a safe environment. “The more firearms and ammunition out of harm’s way helps us keep our communities safe, avoids the risk of them getting into the wrong hands and the possibility of them being used in crime. “The surrender not only applies to firearms and ammunition, but includes replica firearms, air weapons, BB guns, imitation firearms, component parts and other ballistic items. No firearm will be refused. “Fortunately Northumbria has a low number of firearm related crimes however, we want to do all we can to get these types of weapons off our streets and out of our communities. Every weapon we retrieve has the potential to save a life and I urge people to get involved and do the right thing.” While there are designated police stations for the surrender, the public can go to any police station and they will accept any and all firearms and ammunition. For a list of designated police stations please see below: Alnwick Prudhoe Street, Alnwick, NE66 1UJ - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Ashington Lintonville Terrace, Ashington, NE63 8HD - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Bedlington Schalksmuhle Road, Bedlington, NE22 7LA - 8am to 8pm (7 days a week) Berwick Church Street, Berwick upon Tweed, TD15 1DZ - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Byker Clifford Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 1EA - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Etal Lane Etal Lane, Westerhope, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 4AW - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Gateshead High West Street, Gateshead, NE8 1BN - 8am to 8pm (7 days a week) Hexham Shaftoe Leazes, Hexham, NE46 3DG - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Houghton-le-Spring Dairy Lane, Houghton le Spring, DH4 5BL - 10am to 2pm (5 days a week) Newcastle City Centre Forth Banks, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3PH - 8am to 8pm (7 days a week North Shields Upper Pearson Street, North Shields, NE30 1AB - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) South Shields Millbank, Station Road, South Shields, NE33 1RR - 8am to 8pm (7 days a week) Southwick Church Bank, Southwick, Sunderland, SR5 2DU - 8am to– 8pm (7 days a week) Wallsend Middle Engine Lane, Wallsend, NE28 9NT - 8am to 8pm (7 days a week) Washington The Galleries, Washington, NE38 7RY - 9am to 5pm (5 days a week) Whickham Front Street, Whickham, NE16 4HE - 9am to – 5pm (5 days a week) For frequently asked questions please see below: Q1) How long will the surrender campaign last? A) Police forces are encouraged to run the campaign for two weeks between 13 and 26 November this year. Q2) What is the main purpose of the firearms surrender? A) To reduce the volume of guns in circulation in the UK which could get into the hands of criminals. A surrender could save lives. Q3) How effective are these campaigns for targeting real criminals? A) Several forces have held gun surrenders since the last national surrender three years ago and this has resulted in hundreds of firearms and rounds of ammunition being handed in. This can only be a good thing. It takes the weapons out of circulation and out of the hands of criminals. Q4) What items do you think will be handed in? A) In previous campaigns there have been various weapons handed in including antique guns, air weapons, rifles, shotguns. We hope many weapons will be surrendered across the UK. If you want to safely dispose of a firearm you can contact your local police force for advice by dialling 101. Q5) What is the difference between an amnesty and a gun surrender? A) An amnesty exists around a particular point in time when a firearm is surrendered to a lawful authority. Any possession or use of the gun prior to that may be considered for prosecution. The amnesty is not valid for the lifetime of the firearm. Police may still consider prosecution linked to any offences committed before the weapon is handed in during a surrender campaign. The message we want to get out is that anyone with a gun they don’t want or do not legally hold should give it up during the surrender campaign and not wait for the police to turn up at their address. Q6) What will happen to all the guns handed in? A) A proportion of the firearms will be destroyed but some may be retained by armourers if they are of significant interest, unusual, etc. Any guns which can be proved to be linked to crime will be kept as evidence and retained for any future court case proceedings. Q7) If gun crime levels have been falling why do we need surrender campaigns? A) It is true that gun crime levels generally have dropped in the last decade and compared to other countries our gun crime levels are low. However latest figures show gun crime is now on the rise and we cannot be complacent about the continued threat to our communities from criminals with access to guns. NABIS, working together with UK police forces, are determined to carry on suppressing the threat. Gun surrenders are one way to show the public how seriously we all take this issue. We want to get as many firearms out of circulation and off the streets as possible. One gun in the wrong hands can have catastrophic consequences.

Police are appealing for witnesses to a fire at a school in Bedlington. The fire at St Benet Biscops High School, Ridge Terrace is being treated as arson. It happened at approximately 1.30am on Thursday, October 26, when substantial damage was caused to one classroom and spread to a second. Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote reference 220 26/10/17.

Three people have been charged by police with a spate of burglaries just hours after officers received the call. In the early hours of Wednesday morning police received a number of reports of burglaries in the Greenside area. Three houses were targeted as well as a shed and a number of vehicles on the Rookwood Hill estate. One vehicle was also stolen. A number of items had been taken during the incidents including high value power tools. Officers from the Gateshead West Neighbourhood Policing Team launched an investigation and within hours they had made three arrests. Further enquiries into the incidents have been ongoing and property from the burglaries has been returned to their owner. In the early hours of the morning three men were charged with a string of burglary offences and today they have appeared in court. - Peter Robinson, 43, of Tweed Street, Chopwell, charged with four counts of burglary, three counts of theft from motor vehicle, theft of a motor vehicle, driving without insurance and driving without a licence. - Jonathan Gregory, 37, of No Fixed Abode, charged with four counts of burglary, three counts of theft from motor vehicle and theft of a motor vehicle. - Colin Urwin, 43, of Blyth Street, Chopwell, charged with four counts of burglary, three counts of theft from motor vehicle and theft of a motor vehicle. They all appeared before Bedlington Magistrates Court yesterday where they were released on bail to appear at Newcastle Crown Court. Anyone with information about the burglaries cans till contact police by calling 101 extension 64336 quoting log 332 24/10/17.

Northumbria’s Mini Police has gone from strength to strength as the newest recruits have all now enrolled on to the scheme. Last month the force announced it was extending the popular scheme, aimed at year five primary school children, after its successful launch in April. Now, all of the new recruits have taken up their position as Mini Police and are playing their part in policing. The scheme gives primary school children the chance to work with their local police and learn about a host of topics to help keep them and their friends safe. Superintendent Sarah Pitt has been instrumental in setting up the scheme. She said: “I’m really proud we’ve been able to extend the Mini Police scheme, it has proved to be really popular and it’s been encouraging to see how many schools want to get involved and I hope our newest recruits enjoy their new role.” Unique to the Northumbria scheme the Mini Police is led by the force’s Volunteer Police Cadets. Supt Pitt added: “Our Volunteer Police Cadet scheme has ran for a number of years now and we’re very impressed by the young individuals who join the scheme as young teenagers and develop into confident young adults and wanted to give them the opportunity to develop their leadership skills even further and they play an instrumental part in delivering the Mini Police.” Recruitment for the Volunteer Police Cadet scheme is currently open and will run until the end of October. Visit Northumbria Police’s Career website for details on how to apply. There are no school children enrolled on the Mini Police scheme with the schools now involved including:- In Northumberland: Newborough School, Hexham Grange Primary School, Blyth Meadowdale Academy, Bedlington Chantry Middle, Morpeth In North Tyneside: St Columba’s RC Primary School, Wallsend Riverside Primary School, North Shields In Newcastle: Westgate Hill Primary School, Newcastle St Bedes Primary School, Newcastle Thomas Walling Academy, Newcastle In Gateshead: Falla Park Primary School, Felling Eslington School, Gateshead In South Tyneside: Laygate Community Primary, South Shields St Mary’s Primary School, Jarrow In Sunderland: Academy 360, Sunderland Easington Lane Primary School, Houghton Southwick Community Primary, Southwick View the full news release

Man jailed following fatal collision in Bedlington. Today, Jordan O’Donnell, 20-years-old of Waverley Court in Bedlington, has been sentenced to 6 years in prison following a fatal collision earlier this year. The incident took place at around 1.45am on 19th August 2017, on Victoria Terrace, Bedlington and involved a car colliding with a number of parked vehicles. The driver of the car, Jordan O’Donnell, left the scene without reporting it to police and later tried to claim his vehicle had been stolen to try and avoid prosecution. A passenger in Jordan’s car, 19-year-old Bethany Fisher, sadly died at the scene and another woman sustained serious injuries as a result of the collision. Jordan appeared at Newcastle Crown Court on 18th September 2017, where he pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, causing death whilst uninsured, attempting to pervert the course of justice and failing to stop after a road traffic collision. Sergeant Steve Armstrong, Northumbria Police Motor Patrols said: “Jordan O’Donnell’s actions that evening were extremely dangerous. He drove his Ford Mondeo motor car in a dangerous manner at speeds well in excess of the speed limit through a built up residential area and showed no regard to the safety of members of the public or his passengers. At the time of the fatal collision Jordan was under the influence of alcohol and his vehicle was not insured. “I would like to thank the local community in Bedlington for their help and support during this investigation and my thoughts are with the family and friends of those involved at this difficult time. “Northumbria Police are committed to dealing with those who think that it is acceptable to drive motor vehicles on the road in a dangerous manner, under the influence of alcohol or uninsured and anyone who is identified as doing this will face prosecution.”

A coach at a Newcastle trampoline club has appeared in court charged with child sex offences. Louis Murray, 22, from Blakelaw, has been charged with engaging in sexual activity with a child and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. He appeared before Bedlington Magistrates Court on Monday morning where he was remanded in custody to appear at Newcastle Crown Court at a later date. Specialist officers are supporting the male victim in this case who attended the club ran by Louis Murray. Police will continue to work with the local authority as their investigation continues but officers are encouraging anyone who thinks they have information that would be useful to police to get in touch by calling 101 quoting log 821 07/10/17.

A man has been jailed after he repeatedly stamped on a stranger’s head as he was celebrating a Christmas night out in Bedlington. Jack Stevenson, 25, launched an unprovoked attack on David Wailes as he was in The Grapes Pub in the Northumberland town on 23 December last year. Stevenson, of Carlton House, Bedlington, was convicted on September 4 at Newcastle Crown Court for wounding, assault and breaching a suspended sentence and as a result, handed down a five year sentence. There was no altercation or argument that provoked Stevenson to attack the victim. He launched a single punch that sent Mr Wailes to the floor and then proceeded to stamp on his face. Stevenson then punched an 18 year old man before fleeing the scene. Less than two weeks later, officers caught up with him and swooped in to make an arrest. Detective Sergeant Jason Kell said: "The victim was left with a fractured eye socket but given the ferocity of the attack, his injuries could have been much more severe. Thuggish behaviour like this is simply not acceptable. We want people to feel safe to enjoy their night out, at whatever time of year, without worrying about people like Stevenson. "We're pleased with the sentence that's been handed down to the offender and hope that this serves as a warning to others about the consequences of launching a mindless attack like this."

Northumbria Police has taken on more of its youngest ever recruits as its successful Mini Police scheme is extended. Earlier this year Northumbria Police’s Mini Police was launched with seven primary schools across the force area signing up to the scheme. School children were selected from the participating schools to become Mini Police where they work with their local police and volunteer police cadets to learn about a host of topics to help keep them and their friends safe. Mini Police, recognisable by their uniform, also carry out work in the community and since the scheme began have attended some of the region’s biggest events such as the Sunderland International Airshow - at the airshow they played a vital role and helped hand out wristbands to children their own age and younger, the wristbands included the contact details of the child’s parents or guardian so that if they did become separated they could quickly be reunited with them. Now, due to the success of the scheme it has been extended with eight more schools now signing up and an extra 88 nine and ten year olds becoming Mini Police - meaning there are now 164 primary school children enrolled on the scheme. Superintendent Sarah Pitt was instrumental in launching Northumbria Police’s Mini Police. She said: “Since we launched the scheme in April we’ve had a lot of interest in our Mini Police with people getting in contact to see how their children or school could get involved. It’s been a great success so far and we’re really pleased we’ve been able to extend it and welcome more children into the police family.” Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Dame Vera Baird QC, said: “This is a brilliant opportunity for children to engage with their local communities and learn more about how our officers tackle crime and help people who need it. It’s great that we have more youngsters signing up – I hope their involvement inspires them and they have lots of fun as new Mini Police recruits. “ The schools now involved in the scheme are:- In Northumberland: Newborough School, Hexham Grange Primary School, Blyth Meadowdale Academy, Bedlington Chantry Middle, Morpeth In North Tyneside: St Columba’s RC Primary School, Wallsend Riverside Primary School, North Shields In Newcastle: Westgate Hill Primary School, Newcastle St Bedes Primary School, Newcastle Thomas Walling Academy, Newcastle In Gateshead: Falla Park Primary School, Felling Eslington School, Gateshead In South Tyneside: Laygate Community Primary, South Shields St Mary’s Primary School, Jarrow In Sunderland: Academy 360, Sunderland Easington Lane Primary School, Houghton Southwick Community Primary, Southwick View the full news release

A man who went on a six month crime spree across Bedlington is now behind bars, following a long-running investigation from Northumbria officers. Local man Andrew Jackman, age 27, of no fixed address, appeared before Newcastle Crown Court on 1 September to face 20 separate charges committed between March to August this year. Jackman has been handed a 23 month sentence, having been found guilty of all charges, for: Driving while disqualified Theft Failure to surrender to custody Making off without payment Driving offences Threatening behaviour During the peak of his offending, Jackman stole an Audi A3 from a residential address in Bedlington Station and went on to use the car to commit multiple offences. He was also found slumped behind the wheel of another car in Guidepost, having been found intoxicated by a member of the public and was arrested shortly afterwards for driving while under the influence and without insurance or a licence. He was found to have repeatedly stolen from local shops and as a result in July, was handed a 12 month ban from a number of Morpeth premises under the Shopwatch scheme. Chief Inspector Helena Barron said: “This was a reckless crime spree from a man who is best described as a habitual offender. Quite often we see offenders spiral out of control in this way when trying to fund a form of addiction and there is very little thought of the impact this behaviour has on others. “His numerous driving offences could have led to serious injuries and his actions put our local community in danger. “Jackman was a familiar face in Bedlington and was well-known to use bullying tactics and to intimidate residents and business owners. He brought about a culture of misery as he moved around the town and as such I hope local people feel reassured now that he has now been removed from our community for a considerable period of time. "Getting individuals like Jackman off our streets to allow our communities to thrive is our absolute priority. ”

Police are appealing for witnesses following a one vehicle collision in the early hours of this morning in Bedlington. The incident took place at around 1.50am on Victoria Terrace and involved a car colliding with a number of parked vehicles. A 19 year old woman has sadly died from her injuries. Another female has been taken to hospital with serious injuries. Three men, two aged 20 and a 17 year old, have been arrested for causing death by dangerous driving and are currently in custody. Police are appealing for witnesses and ask anyone who was in the area at the time and who saw anything suspicious to contact them on 101 quoting reference 125 190817 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Police are appealing for witnesses following a collision Hartford Road, Bedlington in Northumberland at 10.07am, on Friday, July 28, when an elderly woman pedestrian was injured. A Ford transit tipper van towing a trailer was travelling south on Hartford Road when it collided with a 78-year-old woman who was crossing the road. The woman suffered serious injuries and was taken to the RVI for treatment. Her condition is described being critical but stable with suspected serious head and leg injuries. The road was closed for two hours to allow for the casualty to be dealt with and the scene to be investigated. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference 270 of 28/07/17

A man has been charged following a spate of thefts in the Blyth area. Since June 1 this year 40 thefts from vehicles have been reported in Blyth, mainly within the Crofton Grange and South Shore estates. The majority of the offending took place overnight during a weekend. A full investigation was launched by the Blyth Neighbourhood Police team and more than 20 hours of CCTV footage was reviewed by officers. Now police have charged Dylan Woods, 20, of Barnard Street Blyth with five counts of theft from a motor vehicle. Woods appeared before magistrates in Bedlington and is now remanded in custody until a further court hearing later this month. Another male, age 16, was arrested and released under investigation. Neighbourhood Sergeant for Blyth, Jonny Pallace, said: "We take burglary very seriously in Northumbria and we hope local people feel reassured by the swift response to the incidents reported to us recently. High visibility crime prevention patrols were put in place as soon as we saw the pattern of offending. "However, local residents can take preventative measures themselves. Of the 40 thefts from vehicle crimes reported to us, 35 were due to the vehicles being unlocked. Our advice is simple: lock your vehicles, look after your property and always report anyone suspicious you see hanging around streets and neighbourhoods. You could be helping stop thefts from happening and helping us keep our communities safe. We'd also encourage anyone who hasn't reported a crime of this nature in the area to come forward - we will follow up and take action." Anyone who has information about the incidents in Crofton Grange and South Shore estates should call officers on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Two males have been charged following a spate of thefts in the Blyth area. Since June 1 this year 40 thefts from vehicles have been reported in Blyth, mainly within the Crofton Grange and South Shore estates. The majority of the offending took place overnight during a weekend. A full investigation was launched by the Blyth Neighbourhood Police team and more than 20 hours of CCTV footage was reviewed by officers. Now police have charged Dylan Woods, 20, of Barnard Street Blyth with five counts of theft from a motor vehicle. Woods appeared before magistrates in Bedlington where he was released on bail pending a further court hearing later this month. His bail conditions exclude him from entering the Crofton Grange estate. A 13 year old boy has been charged with two offences of interfering with a vehicle and will appear in court next month. Another male, age 16, was arrested and released under investigation. Neighbourhood Sergeant for Blyth, Jonny Pallace, said: "We take burglary very seriously in Northumbria and we hope local people feel reassured by the swift response to the incidents reported to us recently. High visibility crime prevention patrols were put in place as soon as we saw the pattern of offending. "However, local residents can take preventative measures themselves. Of the 40 thefts from vehicle crimes reported to us, 35 were due to the vehicles being unlocked. Our advice is simple: lock your vehicles, look after your property and always report anyone suspicious you see hanging around streets and neighbourhoods. You could be helping stop thefts from happening and helping us keep our communities safe. We'd also encourage anyone who hasn't reported a crime of this nature in the area to come forward - we will follow up and take action." Anyone who has information about the incidents in Crofton Grange and South Shore estates should call officers on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police have charged two people after seizing a huge haul of Class A drugs in Newcastle. On Tuesday evening officers carried out a search of a property on Murrayfield Road in the Cowgate area of the city. Durign that search they found a haul of Class A drugs believed to be heroin and amphetamine. An investigation into the drugs led officers to two further addresses on Wansfell Avenue in Cowgate and Bothal Street in Byker. More drugs were found by police and in total it is believed that detectives have taken an estimated £450,000 worth of drugs off the streets. Six people were arrested following the operation but four of those have been released under investigation. Now detectives from Central CID have charged two people in relation to the seizure. They are: - Karl Glendinning, 39, of Wansfell Avenue, Cowgate, was charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply heroin, possession of a drug to supply amphetamine, possession of a drug with intent to supply cannabis and possession of heroin. - Neil McFarlane, 30, of Waterbeach Place, Slatyford, was charged with posession with intent to supply amphetamine. They will both appear before Bedlington Magistrates Court tomorrow morning (Friday). Anyone with any information about the drugs, or information that may help police with their enquiries, should contact officers on 101 quoting log 1174 04/07/17.

Police are appealing for witnesses after an assault at a Newcastle nightclub. At around 2.30am on Thursday, June 1, police received a report that a 20-year-old man had been assaulted at Perdu on Collingwood Street in the city centre. Officers and paramedics attended and the man was taken to hospital with serious injuries but he has since been discharged. A 24-year-old man was arrested following the incident and has since been charged. He will appear before Bedlington Magistrates Court this morning. But police are still appealing for any witnesses to the incident to get in touch. Any witnesses, or anyone who has any information that could assist the investigation, should contact police on 101 quoting log 101 01/06/17 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

This is an update in connection with an incident where chemicals were recovered from a property in Ashington. On Wednesday, May 31, police received a report of a male with a suspected firearm at an address in Chestnut Street, Ashington. Officers attended the address and following a search of the premises a quantity of chemicals, paraffin and paraphernalia were recovered. No firearm was found at the address. A 43-year-old man was arrested and tests are ongoing in relation to the chemicals recovered. Today Police have charged William John Rae, 43, of Chestnut Street, Ashington with offences relating to explosive substances. He has been remanded in custody and will appear at South East Magistrates' Court in Bedlington on Monday, June 5. Chief Superintendent Sharon Scott, of Northumbria Police, said "Extra officers have been in the area to carry out a number of inquiries and residents are thanked for their patience. "A number of materials were found at the address but we want to reassure the public that this is very much an isolated incident. "We understand that an arrest of this nature may cause people some concern but we do not believe that there is any risk to the public. "We always encourage people to report suspicious behaviour and anyone who has any concerns can call police on 101."