Police present update to city council on arrests following riots

At a full council meeting on September 5th, Staffordshire Police briefed the city's leaders on the progress made so far, outlining the steps being taken to address the unrest and ensure justice is served.

Following the civil unrest that took place in the city centre in early August, Staffordshire Police have presented Stoke-on-Trent City Council with an update on their ongoing investigations.

At today’s full council meeting (5th), Staffordshire Police briefed the city's leaders on the progress made so far, outlining the steps being taken to address the unrest and ensure justice is served.

To-date, over 60 arrests have been made in connection to the riots, a further 25 people have been charged, and three have been convicted through the courts.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council leader, Jane Ashworth, praised the police action taken. She said: “Hate will not be tolerated in our city. The violent behaviour from that weekend will not linger, and we will not allow it to tarnish our city. Our city is renowned for its kindness, a place where people from all backgrounds live harmoniously.

“I want to give my thanks to Staffordshire Police and all front-line teams who were unwavering in their commitment to keep residents safe, and their swift and diligent efforts to identify the perpetrators.”

Chief Superintendent Elliott Sharrard-Williams, who oversees policing in the city, said: “Robust action is continuing every single day against those who subjected our communities to the violence we experienced in August.

“Most of the officers who responded to the disorder are sons and daughters of the city. They have families and friends here, live here and care deeply about the people they serve on a daily basis.

“Our commitment to this investigation is unwavering and we are continuing to review all the evidence we have, and will come down strongly on those who are responsible.”

The police also took the opportunity to present a wider picture of violent crime across the city.

Police report that over the last 12 months, there has been a decrease in violent crime.

It follows joint working between Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire Police on a high-profile community safety initiative - Making Great Places campaign - which was launched in the Fenton in February this year.

Through a coordinated partnership approach, arrests were made by Staffordshire Police, search warrants were executed and vehicles were seized. The council cleared fly-tipping, trading standards seized illegal goods, private rented properties were inspected and checks on known rough sleepers are ongoing. Community development work then took place to rebuild trust and community confidence and the project to combat crime and antisocial behaviour continues.

Councillor Ashworth continued: “We are dedicated to joining forces with Staffordshire Police to effectively combat crime and antisocial behaviour across our city. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their community, whether at home or at work.

“However, we understand that too often, residents express concerns about safety and the impact of antisocial behaviour.

“Our determination is unwavering in ensuring that the recent improvements are not only maintained but further advanced. Moving forward, we aim to strengthen the relationships between the local community, Staffordshire Police, and the council, working together to build a safer and more secure environment for all.”

Members of the public who can help with the ongoing police investigation are urged to report it via the police public portal: Public Portal (mipp.police.uk)