From your District Commander
 Chief Inspector Martin Richards
Welcome to our new-look Dispatch.
This summer, my officers’ focus continues to be rural crime. We’re strengthening support to our farming communities through targeted patrols, engagement and prevention work.
We’re tackling issues you tell us matter most: anti-social behaviour, speeding, road safety, shop theft and hare coursing.
But we’ve also carried out a lot of engagement and early intervention work with young people – both vital in helping to build awareness of, and prevent, crime and exploitation before issues escalate.
My officers supported Crucial Crew programme alongside Uttlesford Community Safety Partnership, engaging with more than 1,000 Year 6 pupils from 26 primary schools during sessions on anti-social behaviour, road safety, shop theft and healthy relationships.
And our recent Towards Excellence conference brought together partner agencies and volunteers, who provide vital support to young and vulnerable people, to share best practice, strengthen partnerships, and align on key policing priorities.
PC Ryan McNamara showcased his successful Teenage Kicks weekly football kickabouts, which help young people in Saffron Walden engage positively with local officers.
My officers attended 43 community engagement events, including an inter-school football tournament and several bicycle security-marking sessions.
We’ve a busy summer ahead. I increased the number of officers on patrol during England World Cup matches and you will also see us at various local events – do come and tell us if you have any policing concerns.
Martin
Top news stories from around the county
Our Business Crime Team is reminding people to be careful when buying heavily discounted items at markets, car boot sales and from unofficial sellers. What looks like a bargain could actually be stolen or counterfeit goods, which may be unsafe, faulty or out of date.
In recent weeks, officers have been visiting markets and car boot sales across Essex to speak to sellers and check goods are being sold legally. During one visit, officers seized 505 suspected stolen items worth around £2,500 after a seller was unable to provide proof of purchase.
Buying stolen goods can put people at risk, harm local businesses and help fund criminal activity. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. We encourage shoppers to buy from trusted retailers and ask questions if they're unsure where goods have come from.
A man has been found guilty of murdering Stephen Morrisson, who was fatally stabbed in an Epping car park in June 2020.
After a four-week trial at the Old Bailey, Ellis Heather was convicted, nearly six years after Stephen, 30, was killed following a confrontation during a music video shoot. Despite leaving the scene to get help, Stephen later died in hospital.
The investigation was extensive, with officers reviewing more than 200 hours of CCTV and examining over 1,000 pieces of evidence. A second man was found not guilty. Heather is due to be sentenced in July.
Ahead of the first anniversary of the tragic incident at Chalkwell Park in Southend, we have shared a tribute from the family of seven-year-old Leonna Ruka, who sadly lost her life when a tree partially collapsed in the park on 28 June 2025. Leonna, from Dagenham, was visiting family in Southend when the incident happened.
As the anniversary approaches, Leonna's family have reflected on the past year and thanked the people of Southend and beyond for the kindness and support shown to them. A memory book was made available at Chalkwell Park, giving those who knew Leonna, or who were touched by her story, the opportunity to share messages and remember her life and legacy.
Leeble officers continue to support Leonna's family and others affected by the incident. Our investigation, which is being carried out with support from specialist experts including the Health and Safety Executive, remains ongoing. As a complex and sensitive investigation, it continues to require detailed forensic examination and careful consideration of all the available evidence.
As we remember Leonna one year on, our thoughts remain with her family, friends, and the communities affected by this tragedy.
 Let's talk
Upcoming community police events
Our officers are out meeting residents across the district.
These events are your chance to:
- Speak directly to your neighbourhood team
- Raise concerns
- Hear about the work happening in your area
Keep an eye on our channels for upcoming dates near you or visit the Essex Police website and enter your postcode.
Crime prevention advice
 Protect your car this summer
Hot weather can make it tempting to leave your car windows slightly open, but even a small gap can attract opportunistic thieves. If someone can see inside or reach through, it only takes seconds for items to be stolen.
To reduce your risk, always fully close and lock your windows and doors, even if you’re only away for a short time. Remove valuables from sight or take them with you, including bags, phones and loose change, and avoid leaving items on display. Park in well-lit, busy areas where possible, and consider using a steering wheel lock or alarm for added security.
Taking these simple steps can make your vehicle a much less attractive target.
Be fraud smart
Watch out for investment scams
Investment and pension scams can be very convincing, especially if you’re new to investing. Fraudsters often contact people out of the blue, claiming to offer high returns on things like rare metals, land, wine or new energy projects. These “opportunities” are often worthless or don’t exist at all.
They may sound legitimate and even know personal details about your finances, but this is part of how they build trust over time. Be cautious of anyone who pressures you to invest quickly or keeps contacting you to build a relationship.
Always check a company is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority and get independent financial advice before investing.
If you’ve already lost money, be wary of anyone offering to recover it for a fee, as this could be another scam.
 Visit the Essex Police website for last week's crime data. Especially useful to Essex Watch and Neighbourhood Watch groups.
Next issue: August 2026.
Subscribe to the weekly edition of Dispatch which covers the latest news from across Essex Police. Out every Monday at 10am.
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