Tag: Police Scotland

Edinburgh Napier students join the front line as Special Constables

Innovative training while they studied sees students join Police Scotland Covid-19 response

Five Edinburgh Napier students are ready to support Police Scotland in its Covid-19 response after becoming the first individuals to qualify in the country as Special Constables through a new on-campus training programme.

The students – Larissa Engelmann, Campbell Cunningham, Annelise Hoey, Sumaiyah Shafique and Amy Murphy – who all study within the University’s School of Applied Sciences – have been training as Special Constables since January and have completed 136 hours of training while studying at Edinburgh Napier.

The project to bring the Special Constable training in-house was led by Edinburgh Napier’s Dr Andrew Wooff, who worked with Police Scotland to adapt the training to allow it to be built into the students’ timetable.

Regular Special training requires three full weeks at the Scottish Police College at Tulliallan or every weekend for 12 weeks. The in-house training saw the students undertake their training every Wednesday at Edinburgh Napier’s Sighthill campus, allowing them all to continue their studies and work part-time as they trained.

The training also included a visit to Tulliallan for officer safety training alongside giving the students a chance to meet other probationers and to learn about the discipline required to be a member of Police Scotland.

The programme was devised because of a growing demand from students to get involved as Special Constables, with the five students now ready to go out onto the front line and join Police Scotland community teams in working across their areas. The students will be available to help Police Scotland with its Covid-19 response, alongside offering support during periods where officers may be self-isolating because of the virus.

Dr Andrew Wooff, Lecturer in Criminology at Edinburgh Napier University, is delighted to see the first cohort of the training pass out as qualified Special Constables.

He said: “We are delighted that Edinburgh Napier could be the first to use this new on-campus training module so that our students could train to become Special Constables as they continue their studies at the University.

“Our main priority when devising – and carrying out – the on-campus training was maintaining the high Police Scotland standard while supporting students to become Special Constables. Their time at Tulliallan also gave them an insight into the discipline and standard required by a member of Police Scotland. The training is rigorous and will hopefully facilitate the successful candidates in pursuing a rewarding career with Police Scotland.

“The feedback from both the students and Police Scotland has been great and we’re really proud to see them out on the frontline already, supporting the Force in its community operations. Planning for the next cohort is already underway and we’ve had more than 50 individuals express an interest so far. We feel this type of flexible training benefits our students greatly and we look forward to playing our part in strengthening Police Scotland’s Special Constabulary in the coming months.”

Assistant Chief Constable John Hawkins said: “Police Scotland is extremely grateful to all five students for the time and effort they have already dedicated to their roles as Special Constables, from juggling their studies alongside training to now deploying on the frontline.

“Special Constables have always been a vital and valued feature of policing in Scotland, however during this extraordinary time the significance of their role is greater than ever and we have been humbled by the response of our volunteers.

“Our thanks also goes to Dr Andrew Wooff at Edinburgh Napier for committing his time to working with Police Scotland to adapt the training to allow it to be built into the students’ timetable.

“While Police Scotland undoubtedly benefits from the experience our volunteers bring, we also hope the opportunity is unlike any other where you gain confidence, new skills and get the chance to help people in need. I wish our new recruits the very best for their future on the beat.”

PhD student Larissa Engelmann recently completed her first shifts as a Special Constable. She said: “I decided to become a Special Constable to explore other ways of giving back to the community as I’ve already been involved in a lot of different volunteering opportunities within Edinburgh and beyond.

“The training – even though it was over three months, rather than three weeks – was still very intense. We had to learn a lot of legislation too but nevertheless it was really enjoyable. We had really great police officers who helped us with the training – and we had a lot of fun as well.

“I’ve had my first shifts at the weekend and although it was quiet, it was great to see some of what we have learned in training in practice and develop our own way of working in Police Scotland as a Special Constable.”

The Special Constable role is diverse, demanding and rewarding. Special Constables could be doing anything from policing a football match to assisting at a road accident. Special Constables also police major sporting and public events and provide an excellent bridge between the Police Service and the public, representing both the community within the police service and the police service within local communities.

More details on Police Scotland’s Special Constabulary can be found here.

For Edinburgh Napier students interested in becoming a Special Constable, they can contact Andrew Wooff on a.wooff@napier.ac.uk

Witness appeal after assault in King George V Park

Detectives are investigating after a man was assaulted in Edinburgh on Saturday (25 April 2020).

At around 2pm on Saturday afternoon, a 21-year-old man was in King George V Park when he was verbally abused by a group of four men. The man continued on his journey, walking towards a tunnel which leads to Broughton Road.

As the man got towards the end of the tunnel, the four suspects followed him, continuing to shout at him. They then demanded money from him before racially abusing him and assaulting him.

Suspect one is white, in his early 20s, around 6 ft. tall with a slim build. He was wearing a block hooded jacket with white lining and black jeans.

Suspect two is black, in his early 20s around 5 ft. 4 inches in height with a muscular build. He was wearing a black hooded top, blue jeans and dark coloured gloves.

Suspect three is white, in his early 20s, around 5 ft. 10 inches in height with a medium build. He was wearing a black hooded top and blue jeans.

Suspect four is black, in his early 20s, around 5 ft. 6 inches in height and wearing a dark coloured puffer jacket.

Officers continue to gather and review CCTV footage for any additional information on the suspects.

Detective Inspector Kevin Tait said: “I am appealing to anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident.

“I appreciate the number of people out and about is limited during these times but for those who were out, I would ask them to consider if they saw these men or witnessed the incident to contact us. It is unacceptable for people to be targeted in this way and we will do everything we can to trace the men responsible.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 2925 of 25 April 2020. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.

Missing Person – body found in Granton

MISSING PERSON – ELAINE MCARTHUR

Police Scotland can confirm that the body of a woman was found in Granton View around 11.15am today (Saturday, 25 April, 2020).

The family of local missing woman Elaine McArthur, missing since Saturday, 18 April, have been made aware of the discovery.

Formal identification is yet to take place and a post mortem will be carried out in due course to establish the exact cause of death. The death is being treated as unexplained.

Edinburgh communities thanked for Covid-19 support

Chief Superintendent Sean Scott has praised the Capital’s communities for their commitment to physical distancing over the past few weeks. The Divisional Commander also called on everyone to keep playing their part in helping fight the spread of coronavirus.

He said: “This has been a difficult and testing time for many of us, but I am delighted by how positively the overwhelming majority of people within Edinburgh have responded to the restrictions.

“Deputy Chief Constable Malcolm Graham has today urged the public across Scotland to continue and stay at home, avoiding the temptation of the good weather. I echo these sentiments.

“Please do not leave the house unless it is for an essential activity such as buying food and medicine, or for travelling to work, if you are a key worker.

“You are also allowed to go out for daily exercise, but please stay within your local area and where possible keep driving to a minimum.

“We have a number locations which attract residents such as Portobello Beach, The Meadows, Inverleith Park, Cramond foreshore and the Pentland Hills, all of which are beautiful in the sunshine, but the safe and responsible thing to do at this time is to avoid these areas where possible to ensure physical distancing.

“The Chief Constable has previously spoken about the importance of police taking a common-sense approach at this time and so Police Scotland officers are committed to engaging with the public, highlighting the necessity of staying indoors and encouraging people to return to their properties.

“If, and only if, these options have been exhausted, will we consider enforcement of the coronavirus legislation.

“Please also remember that house parties and gatherings with anyone out with your household are not permitted at this time. However, there are plenty of other ways to stay connected with family and friends, such as by telephone or by using online platforms.

“Thank you so much for all of your efforts to date but you still have a vital role to play in preventing the spread of coronavirus. Please stay at home, protect our NHS and save lives.

“Figures issued today show that 118 fixed penalty notices have been issued in Edinburgh between Friday 27th March and Thursday 23rd April.”

Public encouraged to be vigilant and report scams

MSP for Edinburgh Pentlands, Gordon MacDonald, has encouraged people in the capital to be aware of scams and fake news following an increase in reports across Scotland about scam emails, text messages, and doorstep callers.  

Across the UK there is evidence fraudsters are increasingly targeting members of the public, as well as organisations of all sizes, with emails, texts, telephone calls, social media messages and online shopping scams relating to the outbreak.

Police Scotland have now launched a new Shut Out Scammers resource to protect the public and businesses from COVID-19 related scams. The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has also launched an email reporting service, which the public can use to report any suspicious activity.

SNP MSP Gordon MacDonald said: “While the community response to the coronavirus outbreak across Edinburgh has been overwhelmingly positive, it’s disappointing to see a few individuals taking advantage of the situation with unsolicited emails, phone calls and text messages.  

“During this coronavirus crisis, everyone should take extra care to ensure that they only share information from trusted sources, ask for identification from all doorstep callers, and never hand over any personal information. 

“It’s vital that people in our capital remain vigilant against scams during this challenging time and report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.”

Across the UK we are seeing evidence that fraudsters are increasingly targeting the public and organisations with emails, texts, telephone calls and WhatsApp messages offering advice and treatment for the coronavirus.

They are setting up fake websites selling products and offering ‘cures’ or testing kits. Scammers have also been setting up bogus websites asking for donations for victims or promoting awareness and prevention tips. Cold callers have been contacting organisations suggesting they must have specific measures in place by a certain deadline.

To help members of the public protect themselves from becoming a victim of fraud:

  • Be vigilant and on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly
  • but don’t rely on them. Identity cards can be faked – phone the company to verify their identity
  • Never let people try to persuade you to let them into your home even if they are asking for or offering help – they may not be genuine. If someone is persistent, ask them to call at another time and arrange for a friend or family member to be with you
  • Don’t feel embarrassed – genuine callers expect you to be careful
  • Never provide any personal data such as your full name, address and date of birth – scammers can use this information to steal your identity
  • Don’t keep large amounts of money in your home
  • If in doubt, don’t answer the door.
  •  Never feel pressured into making a decision on the spot. Any legitimate trader/helper will be happy to return at a later date
  •  Never be afraid to say ‘No thank you’ and close the door
  •  Be sceptical if you receive an email, text or WhatsApp message about the Coronavirus, and never click on any attachments or links
  •  Don’t allow yourself to be pressured into donating money, and never make donations by cash or gift card, or send money through transfer agents such as Western Union or Moneygram
  •  Remember, it’s your home. There’s no reason why anyone should ever enter your home against your wishes.

    Who can help me?

    To report a crime call 101 or in an emergency 999.

    If you have concerns about a purchase that you have made, contact Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000. – www.advice.scot

    Further information on dealing with scams and fraud is available from our partner sites, who can offer further information, support and advice:

 

 

Your Police 2020 – 2021: Police Scotland launches consultation

A Message from Chief Superintendent Sean Scott. Divisional Commander, Edinburgh City Division, Police Scotland:

I wish to convey my sincere thanks for your cooperation, support and fortitude during this period of unprecedented challenge.

Many of you will have been directly affected by the unfolding coronavirus pandemic and my thoughts are with you and your families during these uncertain times.

The sacrifices made by colleagues in health and social care are truly humbling and Police Scotland is committed to supporting NHS Lothian, the City of Edinburgh Council, statutory partners and the third sector to meet the welfare requirements of those in need.

I wish to reassure you that, as ever, we stand ready to serve Edinburgh’s communities and keep people safe.

You can contact us in the following ways should you require our assistance:

• In an emergency dial 999
• For non-emergencies call 101
• Contact online at: https://www.scotland.police.uk/contact-us/contact-us-form

The Police Scotland website provides helpful crime prevention guidance and practical advice to stay safe, it can be accessed at: https://www.scotland.police.uk/

I have been heartened to witness, first-hand, Edinburgh’s communities pulling together and supporting each other in this time of crisis. Please continue to play your part by following our Government’s instructions and adhering to social distancing requirements.

It’s important to me that we best meet your needs and those of your community. Therefore, I’d be grateful if you’d take a few moments to share your views and suggestions by completing the ‘Your Police 2020-2021’ survey which is available at the following link: https://consult.scotland.police.uk/surveys/your-police-2020-2021/

Edinburgh is a strong, resilient and adaptable city, as are its people and your help and continued forbearance will see us through this testing period.

Seafield murder: man appears in court

Edinburgh Police have launched a murder inquiry following the death of a woman in Seafield.

Around 7.50am on Saturday, 18 April, the body of Jadwiga Szczygielska, aged 77, (pictured) was found within her home in Pirniefield Bank following a call to the Scottish Ambulance Service.

Roman Frackiewicz, 44, was arrested and charged in connection with her death, and he appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court earlier today. He made no plea and was remanded in custody.

Detective Inspector Bob Williamson, of the Major Investigation Team, said: “Our enquiries indicate that this was an isolated incident but we are keen to speak to anyone who may be able to help with our investigation.

“If anyone saw anything suspicious in the early morning of Saturday, 18 April, or who may have information that would help us then please call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 0756 of 18/04/2020 or make a call anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Have you seen Elaine?

Police are appealing for information to help trace a 48-year-old woman who went missing in North Edinburgh at the weekend.

Elaine McArthur was last seen around 12.40pm on Saturday (18 April) outside a shop on Crewe Road North. She has not been seen since and officers are growing concerned for her welfare.

Elaine is described as white, 5ft 2in tall, slim build, long blonde hair tied up. She was last seen wearing a khaki green waterproof jacket, blue jeans, green trainers and carrying a green rucksack.

Inspector Scott Kennedy of Corstorphine Police Station said: “Elaine has not been seen since 12.40pm on 18 April and we are concerned for her welfare.

“I would ask anyone who has seen Elaine, or recognises her description, to contact police as soon as they can.

“Likewise I would ask Elaine, if she does see this message, to get in touch to let us know she is ok.”

Anyone with information regarding Elaine’s whereabouts is asked to contact officers on 101, quoting incident number 1604 of 18 April 2020.

Police condemn ‘astonishing’ driving offences over Easter weekend

Police Scotland is reminding motorists of the importance of being safe on the roads after a number of people were detected driving at high speeds as well as drink or drug driving over the Easter weekend.

Between 10 and 14 April, 10 people were detected for high level speeding offences and 16 people were detected for drink or drug driving offences by Road Policing officers.

Notable incidents include:

• A 23-year-old man has been reported in connection with dangerous driving after being detected travelling at 70mph in a 40mph limit and in excess of 100mph in a 60mph limit on the A96 near Forres on 10 April.

• A 56-year-old man has been charged in connection with drink driving after being observed by officers driving in an erratic manner in Kirkcaldy on 10 April. He was found to be 4 times over the alcohol limit.

• A 25-year-old man has been reported after being detected at 118mph on the M8 near Chapelhall on 10 April.

• A 28-year-old woman detected at over three times the alcohol limit on the A9 near Halkirk, Caithness on 11 April.

• On 11 April, a 21-year-old man in Inverness was arrested in connection with alleged drug driving after failing a roadside drug test and had his vehicle seized due to having no insurance. Enquiries are ongoing.

• A 19-year-old man involved in a collision in Wick on 12 April was found to be over three times the alcohol limit.

• A 29-year-old man has been reported in connection with dangerous driving after being detected in excess of 130mph on the A90 between Peterhead and Ellon on 12 April.

• A 34-year-old man was charged after being stopped on 12 April on the A9 near to the A824 Auchterarder and arrested after failing a roadside drug test.

• A 26-year-old woman has been charged with road traffic offences including drink driving, failing to stop and report a collision, no insurance and careless driving following a crash in Alness during the early hours of 13 April.

• In Edinburgh, three men and three women have been charged after being detected driving at speeds between 61mph and 71mph in a 40mph limit on the A90 at Cramond during the morning of 14 April.

• A 35-year-old man has been charged after being detected driving at 90mph in a 70mph limit and 80mph and 70mph in a 50mph limit on the A720 Edinburgh City Bypass.

Superintendent Simon Bradshaw, from the Road Policing Division said: “Drink or drug driving is never acceptable and it is astonishing to see people behave so recklessly, particularly when we all need to be doing our bit to stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives.

“Officers remain on patrol on the road network and in local communities to deal with illegal driving behaviour in order to keep people safe. While the roads may be quieter as the majority of people stay at home, there still remains the potential for unexpected changes to road conditions, such as the presence of pedestrians or deer and other wildlife.

“Nobody can predict what is around the corner and speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly increases your chances of being involved in a crash.

“The consequences of speeding or drink or drug driving can be fatal and it simply is not worth the risk. Now, more than ever, we urge motorists to drive safely and legally and to pay heed to government guidance on staying at home.”

Three charged following local thefts

Three men were arrested following a call to Strathalmond Green after people were observed acting suspiciously at a garage there. Stolen property from another break-in to a garage in Queensferry Road was recovered in their possession.

The men, aged 20, 20 and 21, have been charged in connection with a total of six acquisitive crime offences and will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court at a later date.

Two stolen bicycles with a value of a £1,000 have been recovered and returned to their owners as a result of this inquiry.