News 8 September to 14 September
 Police chase van driver through Southend
Watch as the driver of this van failed to stop for us and tried very hard to make sure he wasn’t caught.
It didn’t work and he was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, failing to stop and driving without insurance.
We also have a wider investigation into a number of motor vehicle theft offences in north Essex as well as a breach of a serious crime prevention order.
Adam Pipe, head of roads policing in Essex, said:
“In a year which has seen a tragic number of road deaths in our county, it is deeply concerning to see this kind of driver behaviour on our streets; with no regard for public safety.
“Thankfully, the officer’s skill meant there really was ultimately nowhere for the driver to go and the arrest was safely made.”
A man aged in his 40s and from Southend has been released under investigation whilst our investigations continue.
 Southend: Update in Patricia Finnie disappearance
We continue to seek answers in the disappearance of Patricia Finnie, who was last seen in Southend in May 2017. Following a review in 2022, her case was treated as a homicide and a man was arrested in 2023.
After thorough investigation and consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), we have decided there is insufficient evidence to proceed, and no further action will be taken against him.
However, no case is ever closed. If you have any information that could help, please get in touch.
Basildon: Woman in court on multiple shop theft charges and breaches of court ban
A Basildon woman has been charged with 21 shop thefts and 13 breaches of a court ban following a neighbourhood policing investigation. The 38-year-old is accused of stealing over £2,500 worth of goods from BP garage shops, Morrisons Daily, and Tesco Express between June and August. She had previously been banned from entering those stores under a criminal behaviour order issued in May 2024.
Her case has been adjourned until 7 October at Basildon Crown Court.
 Lee Farrugia and Charlie Farrugia
Harlow: Three men jailed following robbery
The family of a teenage boy who was seriously injured in a robbery in Harlow earlier this year have thanked Essex Police for securing justice. They praised Detective Constable Jon Nottage for his kindness and professionalism throughout the investigation.
Three men were jailed for more than 10 years at Chelmsford Crown Court, including brothers Lee and Charlie Farrugia from Harlow, and Jason Millard from London, for offences including GBH, robbery, burglary and handling stolen goods.
A brave survivor has spoken out following the conviction of a man who assaulted and falsely imprisoned her at a hotel in Saffron Walden. Thanks to a quick emergency response and a strong investigation by Essex Police, Danny Chandler was found guilty after a three-day trial.
The victim, who suffered multiple injuries, praised the officers and support services that helped her through the ordeal. She now hopes her story encourages others facing domestic abuse to seek help.
At Essex Police, we’re here to listen and support you.
Colchester: Man now faces 29 charges in investigation spanning 40 years
A 62-year-old man from Chappel, near Colchester, is now facing 29 charges after being accused of serious offences dating back over 40 years. He was originally charged with 26 offences, including 12 counts of rape, following an investigation linked to a 2014 assault in Colchester.
As the investigation continues, he has now been charged with three more offences - one count of rape and two counts of indecent assault.
Detective Inspector Lydia George, who’s in charge of the investigation, is urging anyone with information to come forward:
“We’re working at substantial pace through all the information which has been reported to us, and I would continue to urge anyone with any information to contact us via the Major Incident Public Portal and the investigation team will provide you with any specialist support required.”
We’re continuing to investigate a tragic collision on the M11 near Harlow, which sadly claimed the life of 34-year-old Daniel Elmes. Daniel was riding his motorbike when it was involved in a collision with a car on Sunday 17 August. His family have paid tribute to him as a brilliant, brave, and truly extraordinary person whose warmth and kindness touched many lives. We’re appealing for anyone with dashcam footage or information to come forward and help with our enquiries.
A traffic stop in Heybridge led to the arrest and jailing of Haxhi Deva, 26, after officers found cocaine hidden in a vape and cigarette packet. Acting on intelligence, our Maldon Neighbourhood Policing Team also seized cash and a phone linked to drug dealing. Deva was sentenced to 31 months in prison for possession with intent to supply. We’re committed to keeping drugs off our streets and protecting our communities.
We’ve taken firm action in Epping following recent incidents to protect residents and maintain public order. Over the past week, our officers have made arrests, issued dispersal orders, and managed protests to prevent disruption and ensure safety. We’re investigating reports of criminal damage and want to reassure the public that no one has been arrested for unfurling a flag - contrary to social media claims. Our presence in the town continues, and we remain committed to supporting the community.
 1,100 more offences solved shows commitment to tackling real crime
Essex Police has solved over 1,100 more offences in the past year compared to the previous 12 months, showing our continued focus on tackling real crime. This includes more solved cases of rape, sexual offences, domestic abuse, burglary, vehicle crime, and shop theft. We’ve also secured over 14,200 charges - nearly 4,000 of those for violent offences.
Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington said:
“There’s a myth that we’re too distracted to focus on real crime. That’s just plain wrong. Our officers and staff are working tirelessly to support victims and bring offenders to justice.”
We are now in a position to confirm the man who died following a collision on the A414 last week was 23 year-old Louie Day.
Louie, who was a serving PC with the Met Police, died after his black Vauxhall Corsa left the road and struck a tree between Chelmsford and Ongar shortly before 3.30am on Friday 5 September.
In a tribute to Louie, his family, who are being supported by specialist officers, described Louie as a "beautiful soul who has left this world and will be greatly missed by all who loved him."
 Braintree: Investigation secures prison sentence for child abuser
Jayden Russell, 26, of Mundon Road, Braintree, has been sentenced to 16 years following a complex investigation by our Child Abuse Investigation Team. He admitted multiple serious offences against a child under 13, including rape, assault by penetration, and sexual communication. The abuse involved manipulation, threats, and attempts to hide his actions. Russell will serve 12 years in prison with an additional four years on extended licence. He is also banned from working with children for life and subject to indefinite notification requirements.
As part of Emergency Services Day, we’re proud to celebrate the dedication of twin brothers Dave and Steve Gardiner, who have each spent over 20 years serving the public. Dave is an Inspector here at Essex Police, while Steve works as a paramedic with the East of England Ambulance Service.
Their journey began as volunteer first responders and St John Ambulance volunteers, and they’ve continued to support their communities in different branches of the emergency services. Their story is a great example of the teamwork and shared commitment that brings us all together.
 Kieran Shepherd
Chelmsford: Three Found Guilty After Death of Kieran Shepherd
Three men have been found guilty following the tragic death of 30-year-old Kieran Shepherd in Chelmsford last October. Kieran was fatally stabbed while walking his dog in Meadgate Avenue. One man was convicted of murder, while the other two were found guilty of manslaughter. After the attack, they tried to destroy evidence and fled the area, but were arrested within days. All three are now in custody and will be sentenced in October.
Basildon: Man admits to 24 shop thefts
A man from Basildon has admitted stealing items from local shops 24 times between May and September. More than £1,600 worth of goods were taken from two BP garage stores in East Mayne and Nether Mayne. He was arrested after being spotted by an officer who recognised him and as wanted. He’s now on bail with conditions not to enter either store and will be sentenced in October
 Three charged in relation to vehicle theft investigation
Three men have been charged after police carried out eight early-morning warrants on Monday 8 September as part of a major operation tackling vehicle crime in south Essex. Officers recovered suspected stolen cars and parts, tools linked to thefts, drugs, and weapons during the raids in Westcliff, Wickford, and Rayleigh.
A 34-year-old from Southend, a 33-year-old from Wickford, and a 25-year-old from Westcliff have all been charged with conspiracy to steal motor vehicles. One of the men also faces a drug supply charge. They appeared at Southend Magistrates’ Court on 9 September and were released on bail with strict conditions.
 Last chance to have your say and help shape future of police social media
Love it or hate it, social media is part of modern policing.
Whether our posts make you feel informed, concerned, curious or reassured - we want to hear from you.
If you follow us on social media (as well as subscribing to Dispatch) we want you to tell us how you think social media should be used in policing.
Your feedback will help shape how we use it going forward.
Complete our short survey to have your say.
Apology - errors in last week's issue of Dispatch
Sorry for the missing content last week for jobs, 'We Remember' and obituaries.
 Let's talk
Upcoming community police events across Essex this week
Monday 15 September
10am to 11am
Morrisons Supermarket, Centenary Way, Little Clacton
10am to 11am
Safe to Go Stow hub, 28 The Stow, Harlow
12pm to 1pm
McDonalds Hadleigh, 124 High Street, Hadleigh, Benfleet
2pm to 3pm
Sainsbury's Supermarket, Samson's Road, Brightlingsea
Tuesday 16 September
10am to 11:30am
Lister House, Abercrombie Way, Harlow
10am to 11am
McDonalds, Hartley Brook Road, Clacton on Sea
11am to 12pm
Miracle House, Silver Island Way, Wickford, SS12 9NR
12pm to 1:30pm
South Essex College, High Street, Grays
Wednesday 17 September
10am to 11am
Human Kind Cafe, 111 High Street, Billericay
10:30am to 11:30am
Dovercourt High Street, Dovercourt
10:30am to 11:30am
Flowers Community Hall, Lime Close, South Ockendon
11am to 12pm
Starbucks Coffee Shop, 49 Eastgate Centre, Basildon
11am to 1pm
Christian Church Woodham Ferrers Congregational, 4 Main Road, Chelmsford CM3 8RN
11am to 12pm
McDonald's 36/37 High Street, Chelmsford
12:30pm to 1:30pm
The Beacon Centre, Drake Road, Chafford Hundred
2pm to 3pm
Costa Coffee, T Grove Brook Park West, Clacton
2:30pm to 4:30pm
Maldon Promenade Park, Park Drive, Maldon CM9 5JQ
3:30pm to 5:30pm
Delaware Estate, Shoebury
Thursday 18 September
10am to 12pm
Walton Forum, 61 High Street, Walton on the Naze
10am to 11am
Priors Hall, Lindsell
10am to 12pm
Touch Point, Crafton Green, Stansted
11am to 12pm
Fyfield Village Hall, Houchin Drive, Ongar
11am to 1pm
Outside M&S, 43-45 High Street, Brentwood, United Kingdom,
1pm to 2pm
Thremhall Park Cafe, Start Hill, Great Hallingbury
Friday 19 September
9am to 10am
Coffee Wagon, Tanton Road, Flitch Green
9am to 10am
Flitch Green Coffee Wagon, Tanton Road
10:30am to 11:30am
Clements Hall Leisure Centre, Hawkwell SS5 4LN
10:30am to 11:30am
Ashfields, Green Street, Great Canfield
11am to 1pm
John Lewis Store, Bond Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1GD.
11:45am to 12:45pm
Old School Community Cafe, Dunmow Road, Takeley
Saturday 20 September
9am to 10am
Chelmsford Park Run, Central Park, CM20FQ
10am to 11am
Quadrant Store, High Street, Chelmsford, CM20LS
10am to 4pm
Leigh Fire Station, Mountdale Gardens, Leigh
10am to 11:30am
Woody's Restaurant, Thurrock garden Centre, South Road, South Ockendon
10am to 12pm
The Skate Park, Hall Lane, Walton on the Naze
12pm to 1pm
Wickes Chelmsford, 1 Baynes Place, Waterhouse Lane, Chelmsford, CM1 2QX
12pm to 4pm
Loughton Community Day, Loughton Cricket Ground, High Road, The Uplands, Loughton
1:30pm to 4pm
Balmoral Community Centre, Salisbury Avenue, Westcliff
2pm to 3pm
Marks & Spencer Foodhall, 12-24 Eastwood Road, Rayleigh SS6 7JQ
5pm to 6pm
Sainsburys Rayleigh Weir - 21 Stadium Way, Benfleet
Sunday 21 September
12pm to 3pm
Museum of Power, Hatfield Road, Langford, Maldon, CM9 6QA
4pm to 6pm
Rayleigh Train Station, Station Road, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7HJ
For full details of upcoming events, please visit the Essex Police website and enter your postcode.
 Romance & Red Flags: An Evening Exploring Romance Fraud
We’re teaming up with author Becky Holmes and the library services across Essex for three insightful events focused fraud prevention.
Becky will share her personal journey and eye-opening experiences in the world of fraud. Our Fraud prevent expert will offer practical advice on what to do if you’ve been targeted and how to protect yourself and others. Plus, Victim Services and Trading Standards will be there to provide support and further guidance. Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and stay safe.
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Tue 23 Sept 6pm
Westcliff Library, 649 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9PD
Get your free ticket for Westcliff Library event
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Wed 24 Sept 5.30pm
Grays Library, Orsett Road, Grays RM17 5DX
No ticket needed
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Thu 25 Sept 5.30pm
Chelmsford Library, Chelmsford County Hall, Market Road, Chelmsford CM1 1QH
No ticket needed
 Crime prevention advice
Don’t give burglars an open invitation
We all love to let the fresh air in during hot weather, but open windows and unlocked sheds can be an easy opportunity for thieves.
Here’s how to stay safe while keeping cool:
- Lock windows when you leave the room.
- Hide valuables from view.
- Lock sheds and gates so they can’t access the tools that might help to break into your home.
Be fraud smart
Report scam text messages
Did you know you can report scam text messages simply by forwarding the message and the phone number to 7726?
Its free and by reporting the message your phone network provider can investigate where the text came from and take action to stop the scam.
 Join our team
Police staff jobs
Roads Policing Primary Investigation Officer £26,106
Small Works - Project Manager £40,170
Supplier Relationship Manager - Operations and Community Services £51,291
Contact Centre Officer £26,106 to £28,650
Geographic Contact Officer £26,106
Head of Finance £74,226
Community Support Officer £26,106 to £31,293
Visit our website for full advert, job descriptions and application form.
 This week we remember
Joseph Watt
Joseph Watt served with Essex County Constabulary from 2 April 1906. On 27 August 1913 Joseph was on duty in Romford High Street when he saw a runaway horse drawing a four wheeled van coming towards him. The horse had been startled by a motorbus while it was having a nosebag, and one man had already been injured in trying to stop the terrified animal. As the horse drew level, he managed to grab its mane, running beside it while he tried to bring it to a halt.
Sadly he caught his foot on the pavement and fell beneath the van wheels. He died later from his injuries on 8 September 1913.
Alexander Henry Barlow Mackay
Alexander Mackay served with Essex County Constabulary from 5 February 1935. After completing training at Headquarters, Alexander served in Chelmsford, Ongar, HQ and Romford before joining the R.A.F. on 15 September 1941. He was killed in a flying accident on Thursday 10 September 1942 whilst serving as Leading Aircraftsman 1335668 in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He was aged 28 and left a widow, Phyllis Mackay.
John Noel Rumsby
John Rumsby served with Essex County Constabulary from June 28, 1937 after working as a gardener for Captain Angus of Houghton. Having completed his training at Headquarters he was posted to Romford and then Upminster. John left the police on April 5,1942 and joined the R.A.F. the following day. He went missing presumed killed on Monday September 11,1944 whilst serving as Flight Sergeant 1586158 Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He was aged 27.
Francis William Tarry
Francis Tarry served with Essex County Constabulary from July 9, 1936. After training at Headquarters he worked at Braintree, Headquarters and Grays. Francis joined the army on September 14, 1943. Within a year, on Monday September 11, 1944, he was killed in action whilst serving as Trooper 14664847 with Nottinghamshire Yeomanry, R.A.C. He was aged 28.
Ernest William Wedlock
Ernest Wedlock served with Essex County Constabulary from December 17, 1986 as Constable 267. He was initially posted to Southend and latterly served in Colchester, Harwich, Boxted, Braintree, Coggeshall and Maldon. On May 31, 1915, Ernest enlisted with the Essex Regiment where he served in France where he was injured. He was transferred to 141st Company, Labour Corps and died on September 13, 1918.
William Munro Sim
William Sim served with Southend Borough Constabulary from November 17, 1938 after serving with the Scots Guards. After initial training, William was posted to the Southend Eastern Section on February 20, 1939 and in November he was recalled to the army, along with his colleagues Herman De Leur and Bert Pegrum.
He died on Thursday September 19, 1940 after an anti-aircraft shell splinter passed through his heart as he ran down Newgate Street, London. He was Lance Corporal 2695069 in the Scots Guards based at the Tower of London, and was assisting the Auxiliary Fire Service at the time of his death.
Alfred Wilson
Alfred Wilson applied to join the Southend Borough Constabulary and was attested as Constable 83 on the March 10, 1915. Just nine months later in December 1915, Alfred volunteered to enlist with the 16th Rifle Brigade.
Alfred’s division fought in the Third Battle of Ypres – Passchendale in August 1917. It was here on September 20, 1917, close to the Menin Road, that Lance Sergeant S/14598 Alfred Wilson gave his life. He was twenty-seven years old.
Hermanus Herman Bertrum De Leur
Police Constable Hermanus 'Herman' Bertram De Leur served with Southend Borough Constabulary from September 1, 1938. Not long after joining he was recalled to the army - being mobilised on December 1, 1939. He is believed to have died on or shortly after Wednesday September 20, 1944 during the Battle of Arnhem while serving as Sergeant 2614295 with the 11th Battalion of the Parachute Regiment, A.A.C.
Read more about other Essex officers on the Essex Police Memorial Trust website.
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