Dedicated officers celebrate over 800 weapons seized in seven years, contributing to a decline in knife crime across Nottinghamshire
It has been over seven years since Nottingham introduced its dedicated knife crime team, and their relentless efforts have proven instrumental in making the city’s streets safer. Specialized officers have successfully confiscated approximately 800 knives and offensive weapons during this period, demonstrating their commitment to reducing weapon-enabled crime in the region.
Over the last 12 months alone, the knife crime team has taken 76 weapons out of circulation through their targeted patrols. These patrols, covering thousands of miles across Nottingham, involve officers splitting into teams to proactively seek out potential knife carriers. Combining their own observations with the latest intelligence, the team identifies suspects, particularly those involved in criminal activities such as drug dealing.
The officers employ a strategic approach, selecting specific areas for focus during their shifts and utilizing police cars for efficient mobility. Spotting individuals deemed likely to be carrying knives, the team conducts stop-and-search procedures at the roadside, often revealing concealed weapons that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.
Sergeant Matt Daley, leading the city knife crime team, emphasized the team’s dedication to their primary goal: “Everything we do is geared towards taking knives off the streets and putting anyone who carries them before the courts, in order to try and make our communities safer.”
The team’s diligence extends beyond visible patrols, with officers in plain clothes strategically monitoring suspects to decide whether stop-and-search powers are warranted. Sgt. Daley highlighted the effectiveness of their approach, noting that for every five people stopped, three result in significant discoveries, including knives, drugs, or other contraband.
Despite the successes achieved since the team’s inception, Sgt. Daley acknowledges the ongoing challenges, stating, “We’re fully aware that more can be done, so are absolutely committed to trying to do that whenever we go out on shift.”
Nottingham took a groundbreaking step in 2016 by becoming the first city outside of London to establish a dedicated knife crime team. In addition to the city team, a second unit covering the wider county has been in operation for several years, contributing to a three percent reduction in overall knife crime across Nottinghamshire in the past year. This decrease contrasts with a five percent rise nationally, showcasing the positive impact of targeted efforts by the knife crime teams.
Nottinghamshire Police also collaborates with partner organizations to prevent knife crime, engaging with young people to educate them about the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife. Recent initiatives, such as introducing lesson plans on knife crime in primary and secondary schools, exemplify the multifaceted approach taken to address this issue.
Superintendent Kathryn Craner, knife crime lead for Nottinghamshire Police, reassured the public that tackling knife crime remains a top priority, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures. She stated, “Having this visible presence on the streets can have a real impact in helping to deter this type of criminality, while allowing us to rapidly respond to any offences that take place.”
While the overall decline in knife crime is encouraging, Nottinghamshire Police remains committed to maintaining this trend through continued enforcement, engagement, and partnership initiatives.