More than 1,750 people arrested in Cheshire throughout Christmas period

Officers arrested 1,752 people across the county in a bid to keep people safe throughout the Christmas period.

Arrests were made for a number of offences including assault, drink or drug driving, theft and criminal damage.

The Force’s operation – which ran throughout December - saw officers targeting perpetrators of anti-social behaviour, violence against women and girls, domestic abuse and drink and drug driving – with a particular focus on night-time economy hotspot areas.

High visibility policing activity took place throughout December in areas across the county, which saw more officers helping make the county’s city and town centres safe so law-abiding people could enjoy their Christmas safely.

Officers were also out stopping drivers as part of a crackdown on drink and drug driving, and as a result 224 people were arrested for these offences.

The Special Constabulary was also hugely valuable throughout the month, supporting frontline neighbourhood policing and carrying out targeted operations to help support the Force’s operation.

Warrington Town Centre in particular saw 19 special constables reporting for duty on Friday 20 December, giving up their free time to keep communities safe.

Chief Inspector Jamie Lewis, lead for the Force’s festive operation, said:

“Throughout December we urged the public to think before they act, or face action from officers, and while the majority of people enjoyed their Christmas safely and responsibly, there were still far too many people who ignored our warning and chose to commit crime regardless.

“I hope the visibility of our officers – and the action taken against those who tried to spoil it for others – will have reassured our communities that we were working hard to keep them safe over the Christmas period.

“Our efforts to keep people safe and keep criminals off our streets doesn’t end with Christmas. We will continue working hard to make sure anyone who believes they are above the law face the consequences of their actions - all year round.

“I also want to say a massive thank you to all the officers, staff and volunteers who worked really hard over the Christmas period - some missing spending time with their own families - to keep the people of Cheshire safe.”

If you have been a victim of crime, report it via 101 or contact police via www.cheshire.police.uk