Crime clinic launched in Roffey after machete fight

Horsham police has dealt with a number of drug related offences in the area this year, Chief Inspector Howard Hodges, Horsham district commander, told the County Times.

Although police response has been swift and arrests have been made, officers will team up with Horsham District Council and other partnerships to host a drop-in crime clinic in Roffey on Thursday July 18.

The public were first made aware of the incidents at a public meeting at County Hall North in Chart Way, Horsham, on Monday June 24.

Giving a general update on crime, Sergeant Ian McNab, of Horsham police, said: “On anti-social behaviour we had a rather large scale fight in Roffey. In April there was a large fight there.”

He went on to explain that the fight involved a firearm and machetes.

However, no firearm was recovered from the scene.

No-one was seriously injured and the incident is being treated as affray.

At least five people were arrested and the incident led to Operation Serpent which is targeting Class A drug dealing in the area.

Sgt McNab said that crime trends for Roffey showed the highest level of anti-social behaviour and violence in the Horsham district.

Officers are working with Quadrant, the housing association, and the Horsham Community Safety Partnership.

The day of action, dubbed ‘Let’s Crimeproof Roffey’, will be held at Roffey Millennium Hall in Crawley Road from 10am until 4pm.

Officials will be on hand to offer crime and fire advice.

Information on low-cost crime prevention equipment will be available including property marking.

Horsham District Council says it will advise Roffey locals how to make their family, home and car safe from crime, how to deter doorstop callers.

The local authority wants to hear from any residents who have concerns about crime in their area.

Chief Inspector Hodges said: “What we’re focusing on is a small number of individuals and a small number of premises in the Roffey area. It is important to say that we are incredibly pleased with the community response and support on our current activities.”

For details about the day of action contact 01403 215115.