More than 1,000 arrests in crackdown on wanted people
More than 1,000 people have been arrested as part of a crackdown on wanted criminals across West Yorkshire.
At the beginning of December, a new operation was launched by West Yorkshire Police targeting those wanted for a number of criminal offences. All five districts across the county were given additional resources and support, which was funded through the Proceeds of Crime Act.
The force said there were 1,072 arrests made during this period. Of those arrested, 222 have been charged with offences, with another 25 dealt with by way of caution or community resolution.
A number of others have been interviewed and released under investigation or on bail while inquiries continue.
“The aim of this proactive operations was to detain and secure convictions for as many of these wanted individuals as possible and provide reassurance to not only victims of crime but for the communities across the county that West Yorkshire is safe, and we will do all we can to deter any criminality,” said West Yorkshire Police.
Assistant Chief Constable Pat Twiggs said all of the teams across the five districts achieved “some incredible results” as part of this operation.
He added: “In three weeks, we’ve made over a thousand arrests and this has already made a positive impact on the streets of West Yorkshire.
“We are hoping to conduct another phase of this operation in the New Year, as we are dedicated to tracking down those who break the law and try to avoid justice.”
Detective Superintendent Andy Cass, who led the operation, said: “The criminals we have been targeting include those who know they are wanted but are doing all they can to avoid justice and, in some cases, continuing to offend.”
He is urging communities with any information about criminals active in their area to contact their local neighbourhood policing teams.