News 11 February to 17 February
 Marine Unit patrols along the River Stour
While aboard our police boat Toby Speller, officers from our Marine Unit carried out patrols along the River Stour.
Our Marine Unit officers have specialist training, specialist equipment and strong local knowledge. They work closely with marine communities to help keep everyone safe.
During the patrol, the team checked the moorings at Wrabness and spoke with people on a yacht heading upriver to make sure everything was okay, before arriving at Mistley Quay.
Marine Unit Sergeant Alex Southgate explained why maintaining good relationships with marine communities is so important. They know what normal activity looks like – and can quickly spot when something doesn’t seem right:
“The Stour is one of our more isolated rivers. We occasionally receive reports of suspicious behaviour at night in this area, so we encourage anyone who sees something that doesn’t look right to call us straight away.
“By working together, we can help keep everyone safe and catch those who try to use our rivers to commit crime.”
 Working together for safer roads
On Friday 13 February, officers conducted community engagement alongside casualty reduction work in Great Bentley.
During a 30‑minute period at Thorrington Road by the Green, six drivers were recorded exceeding the speed limit.
A further 30‑minute check at Plough Road, Aingers Green, identified four additional speeding drivers.
The highest speed recorded was 43mph in a 30mph zone.
Several residents stopped to discuss local road safety concerns, and we received positive engagement from passing motorists.
Working closely with our communities remains key to improving road safety and keeping our roads safe for everyone.
Holland on Sea: Clacton man charged with eight shop thefts
A Clacton man has appeared in court after being charged with a series of shop thefts in Holland on Sea.
Barry Smith, 46, of Langham Drive, is accused of eight counts of shop theft involving beauty gift sets, meat, chocolate, and various groceries taken from the Tesco Express in Holland on Sea. The alleged offences took place between 15 November 2025 and 6 January 2026.
Smith appeared before Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on 9 February and is due to return for his next hearing on 19 March.
 A truly inspiring visitor at Coleman Court
On Tuesday 10 February, residents at Coleman Court in Clacton were delighted to welcome retired Essex Police Dog Baloo and her handler Mandy for a very special visit arranged by our local PCSOs.
Baloo is a courageous Belgian Malinois with an extraordinary story. During her service with Essex Police, Baloo was seriously injured in October 2018 while helping officers detain a suspected criminal. She was struck by a car, suffering severe injuries that led to metal plates being fitted to both sides of her pelvis, and the amputation of her front leg.
Although her injuries ended her active police career, Baloo has continued to inspire everyone she meets with her resilience, gentle nature, and determination.
Her visit brought smiles, comfort, and lots of tail wags, a wonderful moment for everyone involved.
A huge thank you to Mandy for sharing Baloo’s journey, and to our PCSOs for arranging such a meaningful experience for the residents.
 Swift action by PCSOs removes scooter from the streets
On Tuesday 10 February, while out on patrol in Clacton, our PCSOs were alerted to an abandoned scooter hidden in a car park.
It’s believed the scooter had been ridden around the local area by a group of youths. Thanks to the community reporting it, it has now been seized and taken safely off the streets.
By working together, we can help keep Tendring safer for everyone.
 Sorry doesn’t cut it – it's time to #Reflect on your abusive behaviour
Essex Police and Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Board have launched the next phase of the Reflect campaign, encouraging people using harmful or controlling behaviours to recognise their actions, take responsibility and seek support.
The campaign highlights that abuse can include obvious harm as well as behaviours people often minimise, like jealousy, checking a partner’s phone or undermining comments.
Assistant Chief Constable Lucy Morris said this approach helps prevent future abuse and keeps victims safe. The refreshed campaign includes new visuals, a film and the message “Sorry doesn’t cut it - Reflect on your abusive behaviour”.
Anyone who recognises their behaviour is urged to contact Essex Compass for specialist support and behaviour‑change programmes.
|
