January 24, 2024

Huddersfield Man Sentenced Over 2018 Shooting Miscalculation

James Shaw, a 49-year-old resident of Huddersfield, has been sentenced to three years and eight months in prison after admitting his role in a 2018 shooting that mistakenly targeted the wrong victim. The sentencing took place at Leeds Crown Court on January 23, 2024, following Shaw’s guilty plea to conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm.

The incident, which unfolded on September 16, 2018, saw emergency services responding to Hammond Street around 18.15. The victim, a 16-year-old male, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries when suspects in a car pulled up alongside him and shot him in the back.

As investigations progressed, it became evident that the criminals had mistakenly identified the victim, thinking he was someone else. The motive behind the shooting was revealed to be retribution for a prior incident, leading to the innocent young man becoming an unintended target.

DCI Zaheer Abbas from the HMET investigation Team underscored the terrifying nature of the ordeal for the victim, who had no involvement in criminality or gangs. Abbas stated, “The streets of West Yorkshire belong to law-abiding citizens, not criminals, and I hope today’s sentence sends that message loud and clear.”

Highlighting the success of police efforts in reducing firearms-related incidents, Abbas pointed out that 2023 recorded the lowest number of firearms discharges in the force, with Kirklees experiencing a notable decline from 17 incidents in 2019 to 2 in 2023.

While Shaw was sentenced for his role, authorities believe he did not act alone, prompting an ongoing investigation. DCI Abbas urged individuals with information about other conspirators involved in the shooting to contact the police at 101, quoting reference number 13180462836.

RSPCA Investigates Muzzled XL Bully’s Death in Sheffield

The RSPCA has initiated an investigation into a distressing incident where the lifeless body of a muzzled XL bully was discovered beneath the A57 flyover in The Washlands area of Beighton, near Sheffield, on Monday, January 22. The dog, a black and white XL Bully, is believed to have suffered fatal injuries after being thrown from the road above.

Inspector Kristy Ludlam expressed the grim details of the case, stating, “From the injuries sustained and the location where she was found, it appears that the poor dog was thrown from the flyover and died due to blunt force trauma injuries as she hit the ground.”

The RSPCA is urging anyone with information related to the incident, especially if they observed anything suspicious around the time the dog was found, to come forward. The dog was discovered on a route frequently used by dog walkers, and Inspector Ludlam underlined the urgency of the investigation.

The dog, microchipped to a breeder in Wigan, lacked registered details for the new owner. The incident adds a tragic layer to the recent classification of XL bullies as dangerous dogs under UK law. Owners were required to obtain exemptions by January 31 to retain their dogs, subject to stringent measures such as muzzling and leash requirements in public spaces.

Failure to secure an exemption could result in the seizure and euthanasia of the dogs by the police.

Suspect Charged in Court Following Robbery of Pensioner in Darenth

A suspect is set to make an appearance in court, facing charges related to the robbery of a pensioner in Darenth. The incident, which occurred on January 19, 2024, sent shockwaves through the community. [block_2] The victim, a woman in her 70s, was walking along a footpath near Gore Road at approximately 11:10 am that […]

Tragedy Strikes as Man Loses Life in Staffordshire House Fire

A devastating house fire in Staffordshire claimed the life of a man earlier today, in an incident that underscores the bravery of emergency responders but ultimately ended in tragedy. [block_2] The West Midlands Ambulance Service received a distress call at 5:53 am, summoning them to Peel Street in Stafford. Responding swiftly to the emergency, the […]

Coventry Man charged with stealing £15k iPads from School

In a recent development, 50-year-old Darren Reid from Coventry has been charged with the theft of over £15,000 worth of computer equipment from Frederick Bird school. The incident, which occurred in September, involved the burglary of a significant number of iPads and Chromebooks.

Authorities apprehended Reid on January 21, and he now faces charges related to the theft. The stolen devices, crucial for educational purposes, were reported missing from the school, prompting a thorough investigation.

Reid has been released on bail, pending a future court date, while ongoing inquiries aim to trace the stolen technology and facilitate its return to the school. The local community awaits the resolution of this case, as the impact on the school’s educational resources is felt by students and educators alike.

Car Fire on M20 Near Detling, Maidstone: Kent Fire and Rescue Service Responds

Kent Fire and Rescue Service swiftly responded to reports of a vehicle on fire along the M20 London-bound, in proximity to Junction 7 for Detling, Maidstone. The incident unfolded on Wednesday, 24th January 2024, around 13:09. [block_2] Upon receiving the alert, two fire engines were dispatched to the scene to address the developing situation. Equipped […]

Wiltshire Police Launch Appeal for Witnesses Following Pedestrian-Car Collision in Swindon

The Wiltshire Police is seeking witnesses to come forward after a pedestrian sustained leg injuries in a collision that occurred in Swindon. The incident took place on Sunday, January 21, at approximately 5:30 pm, involving a silver BMW, believed to be a 5 series model. [block_2] According to preliminary information, the silver BMW was making […]

MP Flynn Urges PM Sunak to Intervene in Israel-Hamas Conflict

In a dramatic turn of events during Wednesday’s prime minister’s questions, Member of Parliament Stephen Flynn urged Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to endorse a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This plea comes on the heels of an ITV News report that unveiled distressing footage from Gaza, showing the moment an unarmed Palestinian man carrying a white flag was shot dead in what was supposed to be a ‘safe zone.’

Flynn, addressing Mr Sunak, condemned the act as a potential war crime, stating, “Prime Minister, such an act constitutes a war crime, does it not?” Sunak, in response, stressed the importance of respecting international humanitarian law and protecting civilians.

The ITV News report, presented by John Irvine, depicted a group of men in Gaza holding a white flag, expressing their intention to rescue family members left behind after evacuating their homes. Tragically, one of them, 51-year-old Ramzi Abu Sahloul, was shot in the chest minutes later, with his death seemingly instantaneous.

During the exchange in Parliament, Flynn pressed Sunak further, highlighting the need for urgency and intent in addressing this incident, drawing a parallel to the House’s previous actions following an ITV drama.

In response, Sunak expressed a desire to see an “immediate and sustained humanitarian pause” in the conflict, acknowledging the public’s concern over the ongoing situation in the region.

The ITV News report has ignited calls for action and intervention to address the escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas.

Metropolitan Police Seek Info on Antisemitic Attack in NW9

The Metropolitan Police are seeking information regarding an antisemitic attack that occurred on Kingsbury Road, NW9, on Friday, 13 October 2023. The victim, a man who reported the assault, stated that a group of men approached him and inquired about his Jewish identity. Upon attempting to take a photo of the group, one of the individuals returned and punched him in the face.

PC Catherine Brady, leading the investigation, expressed concern over the incident’s impact on the victim and the wider community. Stressing a zero-tolerance approach to hate crimes, Brady stated that efforts are underway to identify those responsible.

An image of a man relevant to the investigation has been released, and authorities are urging anyone who recognizes him or possesses information about the attack to contact 101, referencing case number 4001/13OCT23. Additionally, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

Man Killed in Road Rage Altercation Remembered as a Vibrant and Caring Individual

The tragic death of 30-year-old Sadiq Al-lami, known affectionately as ‘Pitbull’ among friends, has left the community in shock and mourning. Sadiq was killed following an altercation in what has been described as a ‘road rage row’ at traffic lights in Didsbury, Greater Manchester, in the early hours of yesterday morning. [block_2] According to police […]

End of an Era: Meridian Centre Closes, New Morrisons To Come

The Meridian Centre, a landmark in the heart of Peacehaven, closed its doors for the last time on Saturday, marking the end of an era for the community it has served since April 1979. The closure of the Co-op, the last operating store in the centre, at 5 pm on Saturday, has left residents with a sense of loss and nostalgia.
Credit @dmoonuk Dnaiel Moon For nearly 45 years, the Meridian Centre has been a hub of activity and commerce, playing a vital role in the daily lives of Peacehaven’s residents. Its closure has now left the town without a major supermarket, causing inconvenience and concern among the local population.
The site, however, is set for a transformation. Morrisons has purchased the property, and planning permission has been granted for a new supermarket. Construction is scheduled to start around Easter, but this development means the town will be without a major grocery store for approximately two years.
Photo – Sussex News In light of this, residents have voiced the need for a shuttle bus service to the Morrisons store in Seaford during the interim period. Recognizing the community’s concerns, Sussex News reached out to Morrisons for a statement.
A spokesperson for Morrisons responded, “We understand the anticipation of Peacehaven residents for a new supermarket in the town. We aim to provide a detailed update on our plans soon. The project has been several years in the making, but we are committed to starting construction by this Easter. In the meantime, residents can use Morrisons.com for their grocery needs or visit our stores in Seaford or Brighton. We are also exploring the possibility of a temporary limited service and will update the community as soon as we can.”
The closure of the Meridian Centre and the anticipation of the new Morrisons store reflect the changing landscape of retail and community needs in Peacehaven. While the town adapts to this transition, the memories of the Meridian Centre and its role in the community will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of many.
Read more on www.Sussex.News

Fatal Collision on A695 Ryton Spark Police Appeal for Witnesses

A tragic incident unfolded today, Wednesday, January 24, shortly after 06:10 GMT, when a collision between a black Volkswagen Golf and a male pedestrian occurred on the A695 Ryton, between Woodside Lane and Stargate Lane in Gateshead

Despite the quick response of emergency services, the 42-year-old pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim’s family has been informed and is currently receiving support from specialised officers.

The road was closed in both directions for nearly five hours as authorities conducted their investigation. The driver of the vehicle cooperated with enquiries, and a formal investigation is now underway.

The Northumbria Police Motor Patrols team has already interviewed several witnesses but is eager to hear from others who may have information about the incident. Individuals who were in the area at the time and have dashcam or CCTV footage are especially urged to come forward.

Expressing condolences to the victim’s family and friends, a police spokesperson stated, “Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time, and we will continue to support them in any way we can. An investigation has been launched, and we are determined to establish the full circumstances surrounding the collision.”

The police are appealing to the public for assistance, stressing that any information, regardless of how insignificant it may seem, could play a vital role in the ongoing investigation. Those with relevant details are encouraged to use the ‘Report’ tool on the Northumbria Police website or call 101, quoting log number NP-20240124-0116.

Lewisham Man Jailed and Banned From Owning Dogs After Vicious Attack

A Lewisham man has been jailed and banned from owning dogs after his Staffordshire bull terrier attacked someone in the street.

Billy Lane, 26, from Armoury Road, was jailed by Bexley Magistrate Court after his dangerously out-of-control dog attacked a man in 2022.

The incident happened on the street where Lane lived on December 16.

The court heard how the black Staffordshire bull terrier, new to Lane, was off its lead before it caused “significant injury” to the man.

“You knew you might have difficulty with it,” Lane was told by the court.

Lane was found guilty of being the person in charge of dog dangerously out of control causing injury.

He received a sentence of 26 weeks imprisonment due to the severity of the case.

In additional to this, he has disqualified from having custody of a dog for a period of three years, and was instructed to pay £750 in compensation.

A destruction order was not made as the dog had already been put to sleep.

Tragic Altercation at Manchester Traffic Lights Ends in Murder

In the early hours of Tuesday, January 23, 2024, a tragic altercation at a set of traffic lights in Manchester resulted in the death of a 30-year-old man. The incident unfolded shortly before 1:40 am at the junction of A34 Kingsway and Parrs Wood Lane to Queensway, located in East Didsbury, Manchester. [block_2] Two men, […]

Quick Response to 999 Call Leads to Arrest in Hextable

A suspected shop thief has been arrested following an armed robbery with a hammer near Swanley [block_2] Officers acted swiftly to a 999 call to secure an arrest just minutes after the incident, which happened at a post office in Hextable.

10-Year-Old Boy in Stable Condition Following Thamesmead Collision

A 10-year-old boy has been taken to hospital after a crash with a car in Thamesmead.

The incident happened in Central Way at around 3.25pm yesterday (January 23).

Emergency services were called to the scene and found a boy injured.

He was taken to hospital for treatment where he remains in a stable condition.

The driver of the car stopped at the scene.

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: “Police were called at about 15:25hrs on Tuesday, 23 January to reports of a car in collision with a child on Central Way, SE28.

“Emergency services attended. The 10-year-old boy was taken to hospital where he remains in a stable condition.

“The driver stopped at the scene.

“Enquiries continue.”

An arrest has been made after a woman was assaulted in a chemical incident in Orpington

An arrest has been made after a woman was assaulted in a chemical incident in Orpington.

Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade were called to Riverside Court at 9.55am yesterday (January 23).

A woman was found with head injuries, and she reported that a glue-like substance had been left on her door.

A search of the building was carried out by the brigade and four flats were evacuated as a precaution.

The fire brigade confirmed the substance was not hazardous.

A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of assault and criminal damage, and remains in custody.
Police enquiries into the circumstances continue.

The incident was over for fire crews just before 11.45pm.

Riverside Court can be seen partially cordoned off by police officers in pictures as the incident is was dealt with.

Firefighters from Sidcup, Bexley, and Bethnal Green Fire Station attended the scene.

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: “Police were called at approximately 09:55hrs on Tuesday, 23 January by a woman who reported she had been assaulted and a glue-like substance put on her door in High Street, Orpington.
“Officers and London Ambulance Service attended and the woman was assessed at the scene for a head injury.

“LFB attended and confirmed the substance was not hazardous.
“A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of assault and criminal damage, and remains in custody.
“Enquiries into the circumstances continue.”

A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade said: “Firefighters were called to a report of a chemical incident on High Street, Orpington.”

“Crews carried out a sweep of the building, and four flats were evacuated as a precaution whilst firefighters conducted their work.”

“The Brigade was first called at 0951, and the incident was over for crews at 1144.

“Firefighters from Sidcup, Bexley and Bethnal Green Fire Station attended the scene.”

Cruel Romance Scam Couple Preyed on Elderly Victims, Conning Thousands of Pounds

A couple tricked elderly people into sending thousands of pounds in a cruel romance scam.

Ibrahim Moro, 33, from Bromley, and Rebecca Patrick, 32, from Croydon, used dating sites to convince old people that they were in the loving relationships they desperately craved.

One elderly Australian man who believed he was in a relationship with Patrick was initially asked for small amounts to buy her clothes for the winter.

But Patrick then told him she was entitled to 78kg of gold in Ghana and had to pay for it to be released.

She told the elderly man that when it was released she would move to Australia and live with him.

The man transferred almost £138,000 to the fraudsters.

The Australian man died before Moro and Patrick were sentenced.

Moro and Patrick also convinced an elderly woman that she was in a relationship with a man she met online, but in reality that man didn’t exist.

They persuaded her to send £18,000 by telling her they were having insurance problems.

Another woman was tricked into sending money to a man she thought was a German widower living in Ascot who was buying gold, silver and diamonds for clients.

The woman told officers that although she had never met the man, she regarded him as a “close friend and confidant”.

In March 2016 she was told he was overseas and had bought some precious stones, but was unable to leave the country until he had paid taxes on them.

She was asked to pay the amount and was told “if you don’t loan me the money, that means you don’t care about me”.

In the end she sent £2,500, which went straight into Patrick’s account.

Prosecutors said hundreds of thousands of pounds taken from victims are believed to have gone straight into Moro’s bank accounts in Ghana.

Investigators from the National Crime Agency linked Moro to an email account used to defraud one victim.

They also found that Moro and Patrick provided their victims the same address that they had given to their banking providers.

But the pair were convicted and on Tuesday (January) Moro was sentenced to five-and-a-half years in prison while Patrick got an 18 month suspended sentence.

The couple denied the offence – Moro claiming the money was from a clothing business while Patrick claimed she had given Moro access to her accounts.

NCA Operations Manager Paul Boniface said: “These defendants exploited the vulnerability of their victims, selling them a relationship story they desperately wanted to believe.

“The Australian victim that Moro and Patrick so cruelly manipulated has sadly died before seeing these defendants sentenced.

“Romance fraud affects victims not only financially but also emotionally – many victims find it too painful to contemplate they have been scammed by someone they thought they could trust.

“Criminals may pretend to be a trusted person when they message but if something seems suspicious or unexpected, such as requests for money, listen to your doubts and do not send funds.”

Day: January 24, 2024