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My name is Inspector Leanne Craig, and I am the Local Policing Inspector for South Derbyshire. I lead both our Response Teams and our Safer Neighbourhood Teams across the local policing unit. This month marks my first year in this post, and my commitment to you remains unchanged: to engage with our communities, to solve problems collaboratively, and to ensure that those who cause harm are held accountable. I am dedicated to working alongside residents and partners to keep South Derbyshire safe.
As we move into Spring 2026, I would like to share our updated community priorities for the year ahead, along with progress on the priorities set in January 2026.
South Derbyshire is a large and diverse area, divided into six policing areas, each with its own local community priorities. These priorities are shaped by what you tell us matters most, supported by local crime and incident data. Each area will receive a detailed update shortly, but here are some key highlights for the Local Policing Unit as a whole.
Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB)- We know ASB continues to be a significant concern. In response, we have implemented a range of targeted patrol strategies, guided by analysis to ensure they are as effective as possible. We also use an incremental approach to tackling ASB alongside South Derbyshire District Council. This joint work has led to action against individuals causing harm, long term problem solving initiatives, and educational inputs for the public and young people on both prevention and enforcement. We will continue to prioritise this work.
Drugs Enforcement- Our teams continue to execute warrants under the Misuse of Drugs Act, removing drugs and criminal assets from those involved in offending. In one example, officers located a significant quantity of Class A drugs, cash, and weapons—including zombie knives. This led to charges, remand, and a successful conviction, helping to disrupt criminal activity and protect our communities.
Serious Acquisitive Crime- In my previous update, I shared details of our operation targeting serious acquisitive crime, including travelling criminals, burglary, and vehicle theft. The operation ran in the early winter months and contributed to a measurable reduction in these offences. We recently relaunched the operation and, just recently, have:
• Checked 1,237 vehicles
• Arrested or summonsed 25 suspects
• Recovered two stolen vehicles
• Seized 11 vehicles linked to theft or other road related offences
• Identified and arrested suspects for drug offences
• Located individuals wanted for recall to prison and failing to appear
This work continues, and we will share further updates soon.
Crime Prevention- While responding to and investigating crime is a significant part of our daily work, prevention remains a key priority. Alongside targeted patrols based on forecasting analysis, we work closely with South Derbyshire District Council to promote crime prevention initiatives. This includes improving home security, reducing repeat victimisation, and protecting vulnerable residents
Road Safety- We recognise that road safety is a major concern for many residents, and it features heavily in local priorities. We are actively working with partners such as Community Speed Watch and CREST. Since January 2026, we have seized numerous vehicles for road traffic offences, as shown in our acquisitive crime operation results, and have also removed illegal vehicles causing ASB under the Police Reform Act.
Community Priorities Are Set Together, Your feedback is vital. It has shaped our latest community priorities alongside crime data. Some priorities remain unchanged due to ongoing concerns, while others have evolved to reflect what matters most to you now. Thank you to everyone who has engaged with us so far. Please continue to share your concerns and information—it truly makes a difference. You can stay involved by signing up to Derbyshire Alert and completing the survey here: https://orlo.uk/8So6L
For crime prevention advice or referrals to Safer Homes, please visit: https://orlo.uk/7heZ4 and https://orlo.uk/vuJlE
I will provide a further update towards the end of Summer 2026.
Thank you for your continued support. Inspector Leanne Craig. Local Policing Inspector, South Derbyshire | 
