Our patrols today

Community Policing in Action – Acton Patrol Update

Today, PC Traie Dale and PC Dave Loveday carried out a proactive patrol across Acton, both on foot and in a vehicle, allowing them to cover a wider area and engage with more members of the community. Their route included Acton Hill, Heathfield Gardens, and Morrisons Car Park—areas that have seen varying levels of street activity and anti-social behaviour.

We’re already seeing positive results in Heathfield Gardens, where recent environmental changes—specifically the cutting back of dense bushes arranged by PC Cooper—have made a noticeable difference. The increased patrols by us, and your reports continue to have an impact.

The area has been cleaner and quieter over the past few visits, with no individuals loitering or engaging in drug use. It’s a great example of how small, targeted interventions can have a big impact on community safety and wellbeing.

At Morrisons Car Park, officers engaged with a group who appeared to be using the space inappropriately. They were spoken to and warned, and further action will be taken if the behaviour continues. We remain mindful of the challenges posed by colder, wetter weather, but we also expect a basic standard of conduct—especially in public spaces that affect local residents and businesses.

Later in the day, officers responded to a robbery incident, where a male suspect threatened staff with a bottle of wine in an attempt to steal it. He was swiftly arrested and taken into custody. What stood out during this moment was the presence of two young children nearby, watching with their mothers. Despite the seriousness of the situation, PC Dale and PC Loveday took a moment to engage with the children and gave them each an “I’ve met the Met” sticker—turning a potentially frightening experience into a positive one.

This is what real community policing looks like: balancing enforcement with empathy, being visible and approachable, and making sure even the youngest members of our community feel safe and supported.

Well done to the team for their continued dedication and professionalism. 👏

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