Crime Busted: Maidstone Task Force Nets 100 Arrests in Seven Months
A dedicated task force launched in October 2020 is smashing crime and anti-social behaviour across Maidstone. Made up of Kent Police, local councils, housing, probation, and government partners, the team has made a huge impact in the community.
Arrests, Seizures and Stolen Goods – Big Wins Against Crime
- 100 arrests made in seven months
- 29 charged with serious offences including possession of class A drugs, theft, assault, and criminal damage
- 24 offenders recalled to prison or brought before courts on outstanding warrants
- Seven search warrants executed, seizing stolen items and cash worth over £56,000
- Drugs valued at around £10,000 recovered along with £11,000+ in cash
- 46 vehicles suspected of crime seized and multiple traffic offences reported
The task force hits hotspots daily, stopping and searching 253 people and cracking down hard on suspicious activity.
Community Focused: Helping Residents, Tackling Nuisance
Not just about arrests, the team visits individuals harming the community. They offer advice, help with housing, and support job prospects to encourage better behaviour.
“We’ve been very visible, bringing offenders to justice and offering support where needed,” said Inspector Steve Kent of Maidstone Community Safety Unit.
“The success comes from combining our resources and engaging with residents and businesses. We encourage locals to keep reporting issues so we can act quickly.”
Engagement with local youth is a priority, with referrals to support programmes like the Youth Drug Intervention Scheme. The task force issued 10 community protection warnings to teens and set up behaviour agreements with younger children and parents.
Support for Vulnerable Locals and Partnership Action
Multi-agency efforts have helped vulnerable individuals too. This has included home moves and delivering food parcels in partnership with local charities.
The task force also targets major issues like knife crime, domestic abuse, fly-tipping, drug abuse, and exploitation of victims through coordinated days of action.
Martyn Jeynes, Maidstone Borough Council’s Community Protection Manager, said: “We want Maidstone to feel safe and are already bringing positive, lasting change.”
Stephen Timms from local landlord Golding Homes added: “Information sharing and targeted responses mean real improvements for our residents. We will keep going until anti-social behaviour is stamped out.”
This task force shows what can be achieved when all hands are on deck. Maidstone’s streets are safer, and the message is clear — troublemakers won’t get a free pass.
