News 3 December to 9 December
 Essex heroes recognised at the Police Public Bravery Awards
Tanja Munro bravely entered her neighbour’s home in Colchester after hearing cries for help and found a man, Ertan Ersoy, with stab wounds and his wife, Dr Antonella Castelvedere, critically injured. Tanja administered first aid and attempted CPR on Dr Castelvedere, but she tragically died at the scene. Tanja’s evidence later helped convict Ertan Ersoy, who received a life sentence for murder.
Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington, who attended the awards alongside Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst, said:
He said: “The bravery of the award winners was extraordinary, and they all thoroughly deserve this recognition. It was a privilege hear to their incredible stories again.
Click Read more for more details.
Retailers welcome NPT shop theft initiative
“Store has seen a massive reduction in theft.”
“Very happy with police visits – it’s been very good for staff confidence and reassurance.”
“There used to be thefts every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, now there are none.”
These are just three of the comments from retailers following a Colchester Neighbourhood Policing Team initiative focusing on stores most prone to shop theft.
Since June 1, alongside their usual patrols in the city and surrounding villages, neighbourhood policing officers have regularly been dropping in on these shops.
During their visits, officers help staff to identify security gaps and offer practical crime prevention advice, tactics and strategies to reduce future shop thefts.
Click Read More for more detail.
Day of action on Road Safety
Despite the rainy weather on Saturday 29 November, our roads policing officers were out in Colchester, keeping you and our roads safe.
As part of Neighbourhood Policing they were targeting drink and drug drivers ahead of the annual road safety campaign. Throughout December, you will see them patrolling roads in Essex watching out for poor and dangerous driving committed by those who show signs of being over the limit.
On this day, shockingly, they arrested 17 drivers during their targeted patrols – all for drink and drug related offences.
We know we say this a lot, but it is illegal.
Please, don’t do it.
We also know that one form of crime is often followed by another: five drivers stopped for a mobile phone offence, speeding, defective light, document checks and a bald tyre all failed roadside drugs tests and were arrested.
In addition, they issued 82 traffic offence reports, seized eight vehicles for no insurance and captured on camera 62 speeding offences.
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Upcoming community police events
Monday 15 December
9:30am-11:30am - Highwoods Community Centre
Tuesday 16 December
10am-11am - Wimpole Road Church
11am to 12pm - Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, Essex
 Crime prevention advice
The festive season is a time for celebration, but it’s also a peak period for opportunistic crime. With homes full of gifts, busy shopping trips, and increased online spending, criminals see opportunities. Here’s how to keep your Christmas merry and secure:
At Home
Avoid leaving presents in plain view of windows – they’re tempting for burglars. If you’re going away, make your home look occupied by using timer switches for lights and asking a neighbour to keep an eye out. Dispose of packaging discreetly; leaving boxes for expensive items outside advertises what’s inside.
Shopping & Online Safety
Stick to reputable websites and use secure payment methods. Beware of fake delivery texts or emails asking for payment – these are common scams. When out shopping, keep bags and gifts out of sight in your car and lock doors every time you leave the vehicle.
Out and About
Christmas markets and events are busy, so keep wallets, phones, and bags close. Plan your journey home in advance and avoid walking alone late at night if possible.
Vehicle Security
Never leave your car running unattended while defrosting – it’s an easy target for thieves.
By taking a few simple steps, you can enjoy the festive season without unwanted surprises. Stay alert, stay safe, and have a wonderful Christmas!
Be fraud smart
Christmas is a time for giving, but fraudsters see it as a time for taking. With more people shopping online and expecting deliveries, scams are on the rise. Here’s how to protect yourself:
Online Shopping
Stick to trusted retailers and avoid deals that look “too good to be true.” Always check the website URL and look for secure payment options. If a site asks for unusual details or payment via bank transfer, it’s a red flag.
Delivery Scams
Fake texts and emails claiming to be from delivery companies are common. They often ask for a small payment or personal details to “release” your parcel. Never click on suspicious links—visit the official website or app instead.
Social Media & Marketplace Fraud
Be cautious when buying from online marketplaces. Fraudsters may advertise items at bargain prices, take payment, and disappear. Use secure payment methods and avoid sending money via bank transfer to strangers.
Gift Card & Charity Scams
Scammers may ask for payment in gift cards or pose as charities. Always verify charities through official channels and never share gift card codes.
Stay Alert
If something feels off, trust your instincts. Report suspicious activity to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk.
A few simple checks can keep your Christmas joyful and fraud-free. Stay safe and spread the word!
 Read about crime in your local area by clicking the below link.
Visit the Essex Police website for last week's crime data. Especially useful to Essex Watch and Neighbourhood Watch groups.
 Question
What is the law on racial and religious hatred and hatred on the grounds of sexual orientation?
Answer: It is an offence to use threatening behaviour or words which are intended to stir up religious hatred or hatred on the grounds of sexual orientation. The law covers the spoken word and written material, including plays, recordings, visual images or audio sounds.
The legislation makes specific mention that the law does not affect freedom of speech and that it is still permissible to criticise, discuss or dislike a religious belief system or sexual orientation.
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