Latest News
HEADLINES
Here you will find the latest news from the Criminal Justice System in Kent. Please click on the headlines below to be taken straight to the story you would like to read. There are also a number of news features available on the left hand side of this page, as well as archive news from the last year.
Minister praises police as magistrates' court results go online
Providing skills cuts re-offending
Court plans fun-filled Open Day
Teamwork prevents more than 440 crimes
Support for victims of sexual violence
Helping those bereaved by murder or manslaughter
Help for sexually-abused children and their families
Never a better time to volunteer
Making sure crime doesn't pay
£94,000 Cashback for community projects
Improved environment for witnesses
Celebrating a right Royal anniversary
Court confiscates £98,929 of sex trafficker's assets
Tonbridge Grammar School students in Court
Test your criminal justice knowledge!
Serious sexual offences on the agenda at KCJB conference
Criminal justice stars shine at national awards ceremony
Local projects secure criminals' cash
Neighbourhood tasks teams at work in Tonbridge
Criminal justice stars reach final of national awards
Armed robber told to pay back £37,000
Asset recovery update
Offenders pay back to Military Foundation
HM Prison Service celebrates its shining stars
Your county needs you!
POCA hits another criminal where it hurts - the pocket
Communities invited to share their views on criminal justice
Have your say in how criminals' cash is spent
Public have say on how offenders must payback
Medway Magistrates' hosts Criminal Justice Open Day
New ward level newsletters introduced
Multi million pound seizure of criminal assets
National Tackling Drugs Week launched
A day in the life of a Judge
March 15, 2010
In the latest in a series about the people who work in the criminal justice system, His Honour Judge Statman writes about his daily life - from the school run to watching his beloved Tottenham Hotspur on the television with his two young sons, via early morning case reviews and meetings with offenders battling to control drug or alcohol addiction and the dramas of the courtroom.
Judge Statman, pictured right, also gives an insight into his view of the criminal justice system, the importance of trial by jury and the need to support victims and witnesses.
To read A Day In The Life of a Judge - in his own words, click here
Minister praises police as magistrates' court results go on online
March 8, 2010
The Justice Minister has praised Kent Police for their scheme to publish selected magistrates court results on their website.
Launching the new Justice Seen, Justice Done feature Claire Ward MP said: “I think this is a great initiative by Kent Police and I congratulate them on producing a system that appeals to the public and reflects the issues that concern them. This is a great way to tell people in Kent what is happening.”“
"People want to know what happens to criminals in their area once they are convicted because it shows that there are consequences to breaking the law.
“Individual crimes often get a lot of media coverage and news can spread across communities quickly that a crime has been committed. However, the news that someone has been caught, prosecuted, convicted and sentenced does not travel as far.
The minister, pictured second from left with, from the left, Assistant Chief Constable of Kent Gary Beautridge, Kent Police Authority chair Ann Barnes and Chief Crown Prosecutor for Kent and Head of the CPS South East Group and KCJB member Roger Coe-Salizar, continued: “We want to make sure that communities know that criminals will not escape the consequences of their crimes and are encouraging the authorities to publish details of crimes and the punishments criminals have received - Kent is one of those areas leading the way.”
It’s believed Kent is the first force in Britain to be publishing details of selected cases from the magistrates’ courts. These are based around the key issues identified by the people of Kent as of concern to them – including anti-social behaviour, speeding, drink driving and criminal damage.
Assistant Chief Constable Gary Beautridge said :“Ninety-five per cent of court cases are dealt with by the magistrates courts and that’s what the people of Kent want to know about. The public are often aware when we arrest people but haven’t always been finding out how they are then dealt with. Working with our website, our newsletters and with the newspapers across Kent we hope to bridge that gap.
”“We’ve had extensive talks with the public and with local newspaper editors and everyone says the same thing – what people want to read is what matters to them, the issues that affect them in their communities.”
Ann Barnes, Chair of Kent Police Authority said: ‘I’m delighted that once again Kent Police is at the forefront nationally. Local communities will welcome this exciting new initiative. Now for the first time they will be able to find out how people who break the law are dealt with in the court system by visiting the Kent Police website."
The move is part of a wider Government drive to make justice more visible and provide better information in a way that is easy to find and understand.
This follows a Government poll in 2009 that showed more than two thirds of people think it is important for the public to be told about the sentences handed out to offenders, but only a quarter currently feel well informed.
The decision to publicise sentencing outcomes comes amid efforts to set straight the misconception that human rights and data protection laws prevent criminals and their punishments from being exposed.
The government published clear guidance, in December 2009, that sets out exactly what information can and can not be disclosed by agencies.
Verdicts and sentences are given out in open court and are already a matter of public record. Copies of the court register, containing the outcomes of criminal cases and details of upcoming court cases, have been available to local newspapers and regularly reported for many years.
Click here to visit the Justice Seen, Justice Done website.
Providing skills cuts re-offending
March 4, 2010
A PARTNERSHIP that cuts crime by improving the skills and employment prospects of offenders in Kent has celebrated its first birthday with an event marking an extremely successful year.
The New Skills, New Lives project is the product of a partnership between criminal justice agencies, further education colleges, training providers and employers.
A mini-conference was held in Maidstone on March 3 to take stock of a successful first year and look to the future.
This included the launch of a New Skills, New Lives project specifically tailored for young offenders following on from the success of the adult scheme.
The audience, including representatives of prison, probation, police, youth offending services, employers’ organisations, councillors and council officers and voluntary sector organisations, was told that 50 per cent of people in prison had poor reading skills and 70 per cent had poor writing skills.
They also heard that 52 per cent of Kent Probation’s 2008/9 case load of 5,431 clients had education, training or employment needs.
New Skills, New Lives works with offenders both while they are serving prison sentences and after their release via probation offices in Medway, Gravesend, Canterbury, Folkestone, Thanet and Maidstone, at West Kent College, Tonbridge, and via a specially kitted-out bus that tours the county.
It aims to enhance basic life skills such as literacy and numeracy and vocational training tailored to individual employer’s needs and is specifically designed to deliver tangible business benefits while improving the skills and employment prospects of offenders in Kent.
New Skills, New Lives offers an innovative and cost-effective ‘Try before you buy’ route to staff recruitment, providing highly motivated staff on work placements and aims to deliver work ready employees on completion of the placement through vocational qualifications.
The conference heard that of the 460 offenders taking part in its Skills for Life training during 2009, 202 achieved a qualification and 53 gained paid employment.
Only 32 went on to re-offend.
For more information about New Skills, New Lives click here to visit its website.
To read or download the latest New Skills, New Lives newsletter's special report on the March 3 conference click here
Court plans fun-filled Open Day
Court plans fun-filled Open Day
February 26, 2010
IF you have ever wanted to witness a trial, sit on the jury - or even dress up as a judge – now is your chance as Her Majesty’s Courts Service prepares to hold an open day at Maidstone Law Courts on Saturday, April 24.
A multi-agency steering group is pulling together plans for an entertaining and informative event for all the family.
The event, which will be open from 10am to 4pm, will give the people the opportunity to visit the court building in Barker Road to learn more about the work of Crown, County and Magistrates’ Courts.
Those attending will be able to witness and take part in a series of mock trials and hearings, where 'you, the jury' decide the outcome of the case. There is also a chance to visit the cells.
The day will also see presentations and demonstrations from other Criminal Justice System agencies, including high-profile police teams, and staff and members of the Judiciary will be on hand to answer questions.
Watch this space over the coming weeks to find out more details about the events lined up at what promises to be an exciting, informative and fun-filled event.
Offenders named and shamed
Offenders named and shamed
February 17, 2010
A PIONEERING scheme to combat anti-social behaviour in Kent sees offenders being named and shamed in their neighbourhood.
In a multi-agency initiative, Thanet Community Safety Partnership is making sure that an offender’s photograph; name, age, address, offence type and sentence appear on leaflets distributed door-to-door within their immediate neighbourhood.
People who receive Anti-Social Behaviour Orders or court injunctions and tenants evicted for being nuisance neighbours all run the risk of being named and shamed.
From next month (March) the partnership will team up with local newspapers to also name and shame people in print.
This initiative will feature those guilty of the things that research within the local community shows bothers people most, including non-payment of fines for offences such as dog fouling, littering, fly-tipping and vehicle crime.
Tiffany Hall, Community Safety and Neighbourhood Crime and Justice Co-ordinator for Thanet District Council, said: “We want people to see local justice in action. We want to show them that the criminal justice system is on their side and they can be confident that offenders and people whose behaviour makes life a misery for others, can and are being dealt with.”
Teamwork prevents more than 440 crimes
February 11, 2010
A FORMER prolific offender who used to have a £500-a-week drug habit has told how criminal justice agencies working together have helped him turn his life around.
At the start of 2009 Doug hit rock bottom when he realised that if he continued with his life of drugs and crime he might lose his family and partner for good.
But as a result of help and support from Kent Police, particularly the drug liaison officer, Kent Council for Addiction and other agencies, Doug has now been clean from heroin for almost a year.
He was given his third Drug Rehabilitation Requirement by a court at the beginning of last year and vowed this time he would give up drugs for good.
He said: “I was fed up with waking up every day and feeling ill and spending my whole day thinking how I was going to get enough money for my heroin.”
As part of the multi agency approach Doug received regular visits and contact from his police drugs liaison officer.
He said: “When I was on drugs I always saw the police as the enemy and thought they were meddling, but now I see them in a totally different way."
Not only have Doug’s attitudes changed so has his offending behaviour.
His DLO highlighted the potential number of crimes that have been prevented - Doug was “committing at least two crimes a day but hasn’t been for the past eight months.”
That works out at around 440 fewer crimes and at least 440 fewer victims of crime.
Support for victims of sexual violence
February 10, 2010
Applications for grant funding are now invited from voluntary sector organisations that provide support to victims of sexual violence.
The fund, which amounts to a total of £2.25m is aimed primarily at frontline services at risk of reduction or closure. To help simplify the application and administration process for voluntary organisations in this sector, the fund now combines the Office for Criminal Justice Reform's (OCJR) Victims Fund and the Government Equalities Office's (GEO) Special Fund into a single application process.
If you'd like to apply for a grant from the fund, please read the guidance and eligibility criteria, and complete the application form by clicking here.
Application forms should be returned to victims.fund@justice.gsi.gov.uk by 22 February 2010.
Helping those bereaved by murder or manslaughter
February 9, 2010
APPLICATIONS for grant funding are being invited from voluntary sector agencies that provide support to victims of homicide in Kent.
The £250,000 fund is available to agencies that provide support for people who have been bereaved as a result of murder or manslaughter.
The fund is part of the Office for Criminal Justice Reform’s Victims Fund, which provides funds to voluntary sector agencies that provide support to victims of crime. Agencies can apply for annual funding under the Victims Fund and can also apply to become eligible as an official service provider under the National Victim Service’s Homicide Scheme, launched on January 27.
Applications are open now and will close on March 1 2010. Agencies can apply for up to £75,000 of funding through the first stage of the tender. Grant awards will be announced during March, which will ensure successful agencies know what additional funding they can expect to receive ahead of the new financial year.
To apply read the eligibility criteria and guidance documents and complete the application form cllick here
Application forms should be returned by March 1, 2010 to victims.fund@justice.gsi.gov.uk.
Help for sexually-abused children and their families
February 1, 2010
THE appointment of Britain's first Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) solely for children was announced today (February 1) by Kent-based leading sexual abuse charity Family Matters.
The Young Person’s ISVA (YP-ISVA) will offer tailored support to children and young people who have suffered rape or sexual abuse and act as a gateway to the charity’s extensive therapy service. The support will also extend to close family members. It will involve a risk assessment to avoid re-victimisation and may include help with schools, housing. liaison and support with criminal justice system agencies such as those involved in the court system.
The Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) will fund the post for one, possibly two, years and its focus will be on supporting young victims and to prevent the abuse of those who are at risk of being sexually exploited. Particular focus will be on ‘hard to reach’ groups and those who are less likely to seek help. The service will be confidential and anyone, including self referrals, can be referred.
Malcolm Gilbert, operations director for Family Matters, said: “Key to being awarded the grant by the EHRC is the very active partnership Family Matters has with the Crown Prosecution Service and Kent Police through the Kent Criminal Justice Board. The partnership is making real changes to the landscape of support for victims of sexual crimes in Kent.”
The partnership will explore ways the new post can help the UK Borders Agency when they deal with young girls who have been trafficked.
In August, Family Matters was able to provide the county’s first adult ISVA with a grant from the Home Office. The two posts will work closely together.
Deputy Chief Constable of Kent Adrian Leppard, who chairs the Kent Criminal Justice Board, said: “We are delighted to have been able to help Family Matters secure the funding for Britain’s first Independent Sexual Violence Advisor soley for children.
“Through this specialist role vulnerable and emotionally-scarred children will get more of the help and support they need and deserve. In many cases, I am sure that this specialist support will also help bring offenders to justice.
“It is also pleasing to note that this is an example of the criminal justice system working hand in hand with the voluntary sector to make a real and positive difference to people’s lives.”
Roger Coe-Salazar OBE, Chief Crown Prosecutor for Kent and Head of the CPS South East Group said: ‘I am delighted that the effective partnership working in Kent has enabled Family Matters to be able to pioneer this critical area of support.
"The criminal justice system needs to expand its thinking further in how victims are supported more widely by the public services and voluntary sector agencies; not just whilst within the criminal justice system.
"This is an example of our progress in this direction. I am also particularly interested in linking this support for the victims of human trafficking as we continue to build new relationships with the UK Borders Agency."
Back to top
Never a better time to volunteer
January 25, 2010
CELEBRATING the success of the voluntary sector and the dedication of the thousands upon thousands of people in Kent who give up their time to volunteer their services, was the theme of the 12th annual Community Safety Conference which took place in Ashford on January 22.
More than 200 people attended the conference, which is part-funded by the Kent Criminal Justice Board, to hear a range of speakers from the public and volunteer sectors.
Kent County Council chief executive Peter Gilroy, pictured left, in what was his last major conference speech before retiring, warned that the state of Britain's public finances meant that tough decisions lay ahead which meant that the contribution made by the volunteer sector would be even more crucial in the coming years.
For a more detailed report on the Community Safety Conference 2010 click here
There are many opportunities for volunteers within the criminal justice system. To find out more click here
Making sure crime doesn't pay
January 19, 2010
A BMW seized from a drug dealer has been on display to raise awareness of the powers that police have to seize the assets of criminals obtained through illegal activity.
Kent Police officers took the vehicle on a tour of the main night spots in Tunbridge Wells on Friday, January 8. It could also be seen at the Great Lodge Retail Park in Longfield Road, Tunbridge Wells, on Sunday 10 January, along with a mobile police station, from which officers were offering people crime prevention and safety advice.
The car is due to go on show in other areas around the county in the coming months before it is used for specialist policing.
The BMW X5 was confiscated under the Misuse of Drugs Act from Thomas Fellowes, of Maidstone, who is currently serving a four-and-a-half year sentence for drug dealing. He was convicted on nine counts of supplying Class A drugs in October 2008.
Officers were able to seize the vehicle because it had been used in the commission of his crimes.
Kent Police also obtained a confiscation order under the Proceeds of Crime Act allowing officers to recover further assets obtained by criminal activity including another car, worth around £6,500, a Rolex watch worth around £5,000, jewellery and cash from his bank account.
Detective Inspector Mark Fairhurst, of Kent Police’s Serious Economic Crime Unit, said: “The idea of putting the car on display is to get the message across that crime does not pay. Criminals need to know that we will come after them and we will take their assets and use them in our fight against crime.'
The vehicle was originally due to go on display beside the Millennium Clock Tower, at Fiveways, Tunbridge Wells, before Christmas, but the event had to be cancelled because of snow.
£94,000 Cashback for community projects
15 January 2010
COMMUNITY projects across Kent have been sent funding from an initiative that puts money confiscated from criminals to good use.
The funds have been made available through the Government’s Community Cashback initiative which uses money taken from the proceeds of crime to fund grassroots neighbourhood projects that make a real difference to people’s everyday lives.
A nationwide scheme, Community Cashback is administered locally by the Kent Criminal Justice Board which last year urged community groups across the county to submit bids for funding.
The successful bidders, who have now received either their first instalment or their funding in full, depending upon the project, are:
North Deal Community Partnership, which will receive £20,000 to help fund its Teenscape scheme to create an adventure and activity area in a playing field, specifically for children and young people aged eight to 13, with the aim of reducing anti-social behaviour.Children and young people will be included in the process of planning the area, including input into the final design and selection of equipment, so that they gain ownership of the project.
Dartford Borough Council, which will receive £40,000 to provide security fencing and security gates around the common ground used by residents living in flats at Bridges Drive, Dartford, where there have been many complaints about vandalism and anti-social behaviour..In order to tackle these issues the council will use the Cashback money to ensure that only tenants - 84 families in total – can gain access to the communal areas.
Voluntary Action West Kent successfully bid for a total of £24,000 to help finance an after school club for children on the Sherwood Estate in Tunbridge Wells.
The Hope Project, also based on the Sherwood Estate, in Tunbridge Wells successfully bid for £7,500 of cashback funding for its project based around younger members of the community, some of whom will have been involved in anti-social behaviour, volunteering their time to improving the local environment.
The Hartsdown Technology College in Margate successfully bid for £3,000 on behalf of The Quartet partnership of four Thanet schools, to provide a community allotment garden to be used by old and young to encourage inter-generational work and understanding to help break down barriers and negative pre-conceptions.
Deputy Chief Constable of Kent Adrian Leppard, who chairs the Kent Criminal Justice Board, said: "Community Cashback is a national initiative administered locally by local criminal justice boards. Here in Kent we are delighted with the response to the scheme and with the diversity of the various community groups that were successful in their bids for funding.
"That money from the proceeds of crime has been confiscated and put to good use funding grass roots projects throughout Kent and beyond is another example of the criminal justice system having a positive impact at neighbourhood level.
"I'm pleased that through Community Cashback we've been able to help all these neighbourhood groups achieve their very worthwhile goals and make a beneficial difference to local people's everyday lives.”
Improved environment for witnesses
15 December 2009
A NEW, much improved and more secure waiting area for witnesses has opened at Margate Magistrates Court which means that witnesses can wait in a comfortable environment well away from people they are going to giving evidence against.
These improvements are due to the endeavours of Susan Still from Victim Support, who is the Witness Service Co-ordinator based in the court.
She explained that the opening of the new room was the culmination of a community effort to improve facilities for witnesses at the court building at Cecil Square.She said: “Like most courts, this building was not built with witnesses in mind. They previously had to wait in a small, dark and very cramped room and I was determined to improve the situation. We have converted an old store room, where witnesses can be comfortable before being called to court.”
The trained volunteers from the Witness Service are now able to look after witnesses in a safe environment from the moment they walk through the door. Converting the storeroom has cost around £1400 with the majority of the money being donated by a former Mayor of Broadstairs during her time in office.
Other money was donated from the Kent Criminal Justice Board, and Susan also provided training to the Education Business Partnership at the Kent Innovation Centre, for which she received a donation.Court staff and Witness Service volunteers past and present donated furniture and finally the Wilkinson’s shop in Ramsgate kindly donated blinds for the windows.
Susan said: “It has been a real community effort and I can’t thank all those involved enough. I was particularly pleased that security staff at Margate were willing to take a smaller office to free up extra space. Everyone pulled together to make this happen.”
The independent support provided by the Witness Service part of Victim Support is an essential part of the criminal justice process that helps victims and witnesses to have the confidence to give evidence to the court.
Senior District Crown Prosecutor Kate Rushbrook officially opened the new witness suite on December 11.
Julia Eeles, Her Majesty’s Courts Service Area Director for Kent, Surrey and Sussex, who is also a member of the Kent Criminal Justice Board, said: “Providing facilities for witnesses where they feel comfortable and safe before giving evidence is a major factor in ensuring the effective running of the criminal justice system. We should never forget that witnesses and victims are at the heart of the system."
Criminal Justice Unit Manager Deirdre Kemp said: "The improved waiting room will provide a welcoming and relaxing environment for witnesses and victims who are central to the criminal justice system."
Back to top
Celebrating a right Royal anniversary
15 December 2009
A celebration party to mark the 25th anniversary of the opening of the Maidstone Law Courts building was held in the town’s magnificent 14th century Bishop’s Palace recently.
Among the 200 or so people attending the event were past and present Judges sitting at Maidstone Crown Court, staff and invited guests. The party was paid for by the present day Judges sitting at Maidstone.
The first cases at the then new Maidstone Law Courts, which replaced over-crowded and out-of-date facilities at County Hall, took place in 1983 with the complex being officially opened by her Majesty The Queen in 1984.
Back to top
Court confiscates £98,929 of sex trafficker's assets
12 November 2009
The Crown Prosecution Service's South East Complex Casework Unit has successfully clawed back £98,929 from a convicted sex trafficker at a confiscation hearing which ruled that the man had been involved in an enterprise which earned in excess of £250,000 from the sale of sexual services.
CPS Prosecutors obtained the order under the Proceeds of Crime Act at Maidstone Crown Court on 6th November.
Anthony Hill, Senior Crown Prosecutor in the South East Complex Casework Unit said: “Seizing the assets of criminals disrupts their criminal activity and reduces the incentive for crime. We will continue to work with the Police and the Courts to seize cash and assets from those who have benefited from their criminal conduct.”
Gerrard Carroll, 52, was jailed for 18 months in December 2008 for involvement in brothels in Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells. He had pleaded guilty to trafficking people within the UK for sexual exploitation. He also admitted conspiracy to control prostitution for gain.
A second defendant, Moi Cheng Chua, had admitted to controlling prostitution for gain and transferring criminal property by laundering monies and received two 12 month prison sentences at the same hearing and was recommended for deportation. Chua looked after the premises and banked the proceeds into various bank accounts. Carroll taxied the women between railway stations and brothels and transferred money to Spain where he owned property.
The pair were arrested in March 2008 following an investigation into human trafficking for sexual exploitation involving the deployment of undercover police officers and surveillance of the brothels.
A hearing is listed for 18th December 2009 regarding the confiscation of Moi Chua’s assets. Gerrard Carroll has six months to pay back the sum ordered.
Back to top.
Tonbridge Grammar School students in Court
10 November 2009
Nearly thirty students from Tonbridge Grammar School were brought before Maidstone Crown Court on 20 October….. But fortunately none had committed a crime.
The A level Psychology students were given a behind the scenes tour of Maidstone Crown Court as part of Inside Justice Week, a national event aimed at improving the public’s knowledge of the criminal justice system. The tour was organised by Crown Court Usher David Hart and the Kent Criminal Justice Board.
As well as observing some real life cases, the students also had a question and answer session with Judge Carey.
Carl Kreffer, Head of Operations for Her Majesty’s Courts Service in Central Kent, said: “It was our pleasure to host this trip and I hope both the students and their teachers found it a useful and interesting experience. The courts service is a fascinating place to work and I hope we managed to give the girls a little insight into how sentencing decisions are made and how the process as a whole works.”
Jeanette Richardson, Subject Leader in Psychology and Assistant School Leader at Tonbridge Grammar School said: “"The Year 13 Psychology students are studying either Forensic Psychology as part of an A level Psychology course or Social Psychology as International Baccalaureate students. The day gave all the students a first-hand view of how the criminal justice system operates and specifically how psychology can inform behaviour in the courtroom. It was a wonderful opportunity to witness law in action rather than simply read about it in a textbook, and the students returned to school full of enthusiasm and keen to learn more about psychology and the judicial system. A number of the students are keen to study either Law or Psychology at university, and it provided a useful insight for all.”
Photo: Jeanette Richardson (far left), with her students from Tonbridge Grammar School.
Test your criminal justice knowledge!
22 October 2009
Do you fancy yourself as a criminal justice expert?!
If so then why not test your knowledge on the KCJB’s updated interactive quiz? By clicking here, or on the link to your left, you will be directed the KCJB’s criminal justice quiz so you can test just how much you know about the justice system.
There are no prizes, it’s just for fun, but why not get your competitive juices flowing and challenge a friend?
Good luck!
Serious sexual offences on the agenda at KCJB conference
22 October 2009
On 17th October, The Kent Criminal Justice Board hosted a conference for stakeholders to help improve the way in which evidence in serious sexual offence cases is presented in court.
The conference was a multi-agency event aimed at improving the knowledge and confidence of expert medical witnesses who are called to give evidence in cases of serious sexual offences.
The conference was held at Kent Police College in Maidstone and over 100 delegates attended from professions including the health service and Force Medical Examiners, as well as Crown Prosecution Service and Police representatives from across Kent and Sussex.
A number of eminent figures from the criminal justice system presented at the conference, including His Honour Judge Rook QC, author of the book ‘Rook and Ward on sexual offences’; Her Honour Judge Williams, resident judge at Canterbury Crown Court; Sussex’s Chief Crown Prosecutor Sarah Jane Gallagher and Acting Superintendent Paul Fotheringham, Head of Kent Police’s Public Protection Unit.
Deputy Chief Constable Adrian Leppard, Chair of the KCJB, opened the event. He said: “We as members of the justice system owe it to victims of crime to ensure that when evidence is presented in court it is to the highest possible standard so justice can be delivered accordingly. This conference not only offered the opportunity to share best-practice between agencies, but also to provided refresher training and raised awareness of the court environment for those witnesses who are required to attend court. I’m delighted that so many important figures from across the justice system and health service attended as both speakers and delegates and I think it highlights the commitment that we all have to bringing these offences to justice.”
Photo: Acting Superintendent Paul Fotheringham addresses the delegates
Criminal justice stars shine at national awards ceremony
21 October 2009
Kent has four reasons to celebrate following the national Justice Awards ceremony, with one winner and three highly commended awards.
The Children and Families Enterprise [CAFÉ] project won the ‘working with offenders’ team category. The initiative is a holistic support service for offenders serving community sentences. The project works with offenders and their families to help reduce re-offending and prevent inter-generational crime.
CAFÉ aims to strengthen family ties, supports children and families and reduce re-offending by providing a range of support and advice services.
The three highly commended nominations in the individual categories were Martin Barrett of Kent Probation in the Volunteer of the Year category; Stuart Robins of The Mediation Service in the Caring for Victims category and The Community Domestic Abuse programme [CDAP] in the Partnership of the Year category.
The 2009 Justice Awards recognises teams and individuals across the Criminal Justice System who have gone the extra mile to deliver justice. Almost 900 nominations were submitted and the winners were presented with their award at a prestigious ceremony at Banqueting House in London on 20 October.
Sarah Billiald, Chief Officer of Kent Probation and member of the Kent Criminal Justice Board said: “We are incredibly proud of both the Children and Families Enterprise Project and our highly commended nominations. Their work is inspiring and a shining example of the dedication that exists amongst the staff and volunteers that work in the Criminal Justice System in Kent.”
Photo: The CAFE team collect their certificate
Back to top
Local projects secure criminals' cash
15 October 2009
The Kent Criminal Justice Board is pleased to announce that five community projects in Kent have been successful in securing funding through an initiative that enables worthwhile local projects, nominated by the public, to benefit from money raised through assets seized from criminals using the Proceeds of Crime Act.
To read more about which projects were awarded funding, you can read the press release.
The funding was made available through the Government’s Community Cashback scheme, which allowed members of the public to nominate local projects via a dedicated website, at neighbourhood policing meetings and through Citizens’ Panels.
Roger Coe-Salazar OBE, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS Kent and member of the Kent Criminal Justice Board, said: "It's really rewarding to see criminals being stripped of profits they have gained through their criminal lifestyle and it's even more rewarding to see this money going directly into communities in Kent to offer local improvements.
"The Proceeds of Crime Act is a powerful tool; the Kent Criminal Justice Board has confiscated millions of pounds from criminals using the Act and we remain committed to using it to further punish criminals who benefit from others' misfortune. The Community Cashback scheme, partly funded by seized profits, has offered communities a chance to have their say on local projects. We believe those selected for funding will make a great difference to the lives of local people."
Back to top.
Neighbourhood task teams at work in Tonbridge
22 September 2009
As part of Kent Police's commitment to crack down on crime and anti-social behaviour in our communities, there are now 14 Neighbourhood Task Teams on the streets of Kent, tackling the problems which local people have identified as priorities.
Kent Police first piloted the Neighbourhood Task Teams at the end of 2007 and in September 2008 the trial was extended to provide six teams across the county, one in each policing area. They proved so successful that since 1 September this year a further eight teams have been introduced, so that there is one team for each policing district in Kent and two for Medway.
The Chief Constable of Kent, Michael Fuller QPM, recently attended a road check operation run by the new Tonbridge and Malling Neighbourhood Task Team, to see how the team is responding to the local community's concerns about both nuisance and the dangerous use of motor vehicles in Tonbridge town centre.
He said: 'It is good to see the positive impact Neighbourhood Task Teams are having in their communities because they are tackling the issues that matter most to local people. Operations like this roadcheck operation in Tonbridge, show local people just how seriously we take their concerns and that we are committed to tackling the problems they identify.'
During the operation on Friday 11 September, 29 vehicles were stopped in the Sovereign Way area of Tonbridge town centre and the drivers and occupants were spoken to about a number of issues:
- one person was fined £60 for not having the necessary silencer on his motorcycle
- one person was fined £60 for not wearing a seatbelt
- one person was fined £60 for illegal tints on their motorcycle helmet visor
- seven people were given prohibition notices for having tyres that were below the legal standard required. In addition, three people were given prohibition notices for defective exhausts. This means they must have them replaced or repaired and the vehicle will need to have a further MOT to prove the necessary work has been completed
- two cars were searched on suspicion of drugs being present. As a result, one man was given a street warning for possession of a small quantity of cannabis
- one person was spoken to for having a number plate fault and will be required to rectify the problem
- one person was given a final warning for anti-social use of a motor vehicle. If he or the vehicle is stopped again for this then the car can be seized
- seven people had illegal tints on their windows and were made to remove them before driving the vehicle
- two vehicles had MOT defects which require them to be fixed or taken off the road
- three people had to produce their documents at a police station
- one motorist failed to stop for officers and there is now an ongoing investigation to speak to that driver.
District Chief Inspector for Tonbridge and Malling, Dave Pate, was pleased with the results from the operation: 'We were told by residents and shop owners in Tonbridge that some motorists were using their cars and motorcycles dangerously and upsetting other people's quality of life. This operation was the latest partnership initiative to tackle this.
As a result of this operation and the enforcement and advice given, I am confident that Tonbridge is a safer and quieter place to live, work and socialise.'
Criminal justice stars reach final of national awards scheme
15 September 2009
Four representatives of the criminal justice system in Kent have been announced as finalists in this year’s Justice Awards ceremony.
The national awards scheme, which is now in its sixth year, recognises the dedication of those working within the criminal justice system.
The finalists are:
· Martin Barrett, Volunteer Mentor for Kent Probation – Volunteer of the Year
· Stuart Robins, Victim Liaison Officer, Kent Mediation Service – Caring for Victims
· Community Domestic Abuse Programme – Working with Offenders
· Children and Families Enterprise Project – Partnership of the Year
Across the country, 884 nominations were made. Of these nominations, 29 were from Kent. Of those, 11 made it through the sift onto a long-list of 10 nominations for each category. Four of these have reached the final.
Sarah Billiald, Chief Officer of Kent Probation and Board member of the Kent Criminal Justice Board said: “I hope that all those nominated from Kent feel very proud of themselves – we are certainly proud of them. These awards are fantastic recognition of all the hard work and dedication across the criminal justice system here in Kent. It’s very satisfying, but not surprising, to see so many nominees from Kent in the final and it is testament to the hard work that goes on day in and day out to deliver justice.”
The winners of each category will be decided by a group chaired by the Attorney General, Baroness Scotland. The four finalists will attend an awards ceremony at The Banqueting House in London on 20 October where the winner will be announced.
To read the full story you can view the press release.
To see a full list of the nominees from Kent, and also those who made the long-list, click here.
Armed robber told to pay back £37,000
11 September 2009
A man serving 4½-years for an armed robbery at a jewellery shop in Folkestone has been given six months to pay back more than £37,000 or have his sentence increased.
Louis Maley, 21, from Folkestone was convicted of the robbery at Simmonds Jewellers in Sandgate Road on 6 November 2008. He was sentenced on 23 February 2009 to a minimum sentence of 4½ years as part of an indeterminate sentence for public protection.
Thanks to work undertaken by Police Financial Investigators, a confiscation hearing was brought against Maley under the Proceeds of Crime Act, which was heard at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday 21 August.
The Judge ordered him to pay £37,230.30 - being the value of the jewellery that was stolen in the robbery - within six months, or he would face an additional 18 months in jail alongside the 4½ years he is currently serving.
Back to top
Asset recovery update
10 August 2009
The latest issue of the Payback Times is now available.
The Payback Times is the newsletter of the asset recovery world, bringing you success stories from up and down the country where criminals have been made to pay for their crimes by forfeiting items such as cash, cars and houses.
Highlights of the latest edition include the sentencing of a Kent-based cigarette smuggling team who evaded £18 million in excise duty. Confiscation hearings are on-going but so far cash has been confiscated, one of the gang has forfeited his family home, whilst 2.1 million cigarettes were burned at a power station to fuel the national grid.
To read the August edition of the Payback Times click here.
Back to top
Offenders pay back to Military Foundation
9 August 2009
Offenders sentenced to Community Payback in Kent have been helping the SDkfz Military Vehicle Foundation in Yalding keep its collection of war machines in top condition in exchange for basic skills qualifications.
The project is collaboration between the Military Foundation, Kent Probation and West Kent College, combining a Community Payback project with an educational element.
Offenders on Community Payback have provided the labour to clean and maintain some of the exhibits from the SDkfz Military Foundation, which catalogue a number of rare military tanks including the Panzer 3 and Jagdpanther. The SDkfz Military Foundation provides the equipment, facilities and space to run skills for life sessions. Innovatively, the Skills for Life education is delivered by ex-offenders employed by Just-One-Step and recruited from Kent’s resettlement prisons.
The emphasis of the project is placed on rehabilitation as participating offenders have the opportunity to gain a level 2 qualification in numeracy and literacy (equivalent to a GCSE).
Many of the offenders taking part in the scheme have been excluded from school and lack basic qualifications. By gaining these qualifications, their chances of employment are increased.
One offender currently working at the Military Foundation, said: “I left school at fifteen with no GCSEs or qualifications. I’ve had no work experience but I am hopeful that the skills and qualifications I gain on this project will help me find work after my sentence.”
David Ridd from the Rugmer project said: “The work carried out by offenders on Community Payback includes straightforward preparation work such as sanding and taking the tanks apart, up to rewiring, re-engineering and reconstruction of the engines and vehicles.
“I think this project really deals with issues around re-offending. It is not just good enough to put offenders on Community Payback - we have to give them the tools to move on after their sentence. This project combines an educational element to do just that.”
Since the project started six months ago, six offenders have gained twelve literacy and numeracy qualifications. One offender has even gained paid employment as a result of the project.
The military vehicles are displayed at museums for the public’s enjoyment once they are fully restored.
HM Prison Service celebrates its shining stars
9 August 2009
Four prison officers from Kent were named as finalists in the Prison Officer of the Year awards 2009.
The prestigious awards ceremony honours those members of staff who are consistently achieving an exceptional standard of work throughout the service.
Prison Officers from Kent were represented in four of the nine categories, with:
- Lorna Tait, Senior Officer HMP Canterbury, in the staff support category;
- Nigel O'Brien, Senior Officer at HMP Swaleside, in the security category;
- Stuart McBride, Senior Officer at HMP Swaleside, in the decency category;
- Angela Firmin, Prison Officer at HMP Maidstone, in the diversity category.
Over 600 nominations were received from across the country this year with the overall crown being awarded to Dom Chapman from HMP Nottingham.
Back to top
Your county needs you!
19 August 2009
You can now have your say on which community improvement project you think should be funded from criminals’ cash.
Following the national launch of the community cashback scheme, the public were invited to submit projects that related to crime or reducing anti-social behaviour and would help improve communities.
The government has allocated £4 million of confiscated cash to the national scheme, with Kent receiving up to £90,000 of this.
Having been sifted against the criteria, projects that were submitted have now been uploaded onto the community cashback website so you can see which projects have been suggested and have your say on which you think should receive funding.
Once final projects have been decided upon, they will be submitted to the Office for Criminal Justice Reform, whose panel will assess the funding bids.
The Kent Criminal Justice Board will be notified of the decision on 9 October.
To have your say, click on the icon above.
POCA hits another criminal where it hurts - the pocket
7 August 2009
The Proceeds of Crime Act has proved to be a thorn in the side of another criminal as a Russian man convicted of drugs offences was ordered to forfeit nearly £50,000.
On 17th July 2008, Andrei Olzoev was detained by members of the public until police arrived after being seen with a bag of cannabis following an altercation with three other males. Police searched Mr Olzoev’s house and found £47,200 in a safe in his bedroom.
Andrei Olzoev pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply. On 22nd September 2008, Andrei Olzoev was sentenced to six months imprisonment. He entered a basis of plea and provided a statement to say that he had stored both the drugs and the cash for a Russian drug dealer.
On 12th June 2009 a forfeiture application was heard at Sittingbourne Magistrates’ Court. The Magistrates ordered the forfeiture of £47,200 plus £885.91 interest accrued under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
Communities invited to share their views on criminal justice
9 July 2009
A new online poll launched this week is making it even easier for people in Kent to tell the government how they want to get involved in criminal justice services.
Back in April, the government launched a consultation looking at how the public could have more of a say and get involved in criminal justice in their area – the Engaging Communities in Criminal Justice Green Paper. To make it even easier for people to take part in the consultation, a new online poll has launched.
The poll, available at http://haveyoursay.cjsonline.gov.uk, asks the public just three questions:
· Would you like to know more about what is being done to tackle crime in your area?
· Would you like to have more of a say in how crime is dealt with in your area?
· Would like to know more information about criminal justice services in your area?
Members of the public are also invited to get more involved by taking part in the full consultation. They don’t have to answer every question, just those matter most to them – and what they say will be fed directly back to Ministers
The public’s response will help Ministers decide on a range of proposals set out in the consultation, including how people can have more say in the priorities for local criminal justice services, how the concerns of local people are taken account of in court and how they can have a say in how offenders repay communities for their crimes.
The public can take part in the full consultation by clicking http://consultations.cjsonline.gov.uk/. The consultation runs until 31 July.
Back to top
Have your say in how criminals' cash is spent
26 June 2009
A new pilot fund is giving people a direct say in how the ill gotten gains of criminals can be used to benefit their communities in the fight against crime – and you too can have a say.
The £4 million Community Cashback scheme is being funded by money and assets seized from wealthy criminals. It allows the public to choose which worthwhile community projects are funded by feeding in their views to a new dedicated website, neighbourhood policing meetings or through Citizens’ Panels.
Successful bids will have to show how the local community has been involved in selecting the project, demonstrate good value for money and be related in some way to tackling antisocial or criminal behaviour locally. This might include renovating a vandalised play area, investing in a youth centre or installing security measures on a housing estate.
You too can have a say by clicking on the banner above and visiting the new website.
Home Secretary Alan Johnson said: “The Community Cashback fund will ensure a portion of the ill gotten gains of criminals are ploughed back into communities at a grassroots level, funding the projects that the public decide will make the most positive difference to their lives.
“Seizing capital assets deprives criminals of money, reduces the incentive for crime and promotes fairness and confidence in the criminal justice system. But schemes like Community Cashback fund are only successful if people use them. We are giving local people a stronger voice; I hope they will use it.”
Roger Coe-Salazar OBE, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS Kent and Board member of the Kent Criminal Justice Board said: “This builds upon our recent successes in seizing millions of pounds of criminal assets in Kent. The views of local communities, and us being responsive to them, are critical to the public having confidence in seeing a criminal justice system that works for them.”
“Community Cashbook offers a further excellent opportunity for us to be able to really respond by assisting communities in turning their innovative ideas into a practical reality. The views of the local community are vital to helping us to deliver a fair and effective Criminal Justice System in Kent. Community Cashback offers an excellent opportunity for us to respond directly to the communities’ needs, so we really encourage people to have their say on the local projects they believe would benefit from this fund.”
Back to top
Public have say on how offenders must payback
23 June 2009
Following a large scale vote across the country to give the public a greater say in how offenders should pay back to the community, the public have decided that offenders in Thanet must first complete work at St Peter’s Churchyard in Broadstairs.
In 54 Neighbourhood Crime & Justice Pioneer Areas of which Thanet is included the public were for the first time able to vote for 5 schemes they wanted carried out by offenders on Community Payback.
Voting closed at the end of April and 179 votes were recorded – 51% of the vote was for St Peter’s Churchyard and Broadstairs. Work at the Churchyard will include clearing and maintaining the graveyard and removing graffiti from around Broadstairs.
Kent Probation’s Chief Officer Sarah Billiald said: “I would like to thank everybody who voted for one of the five Community Payback projects. Community Payback is a tough and visible punishment which should reflect the needs of local residents. By taking part in the vote you have decided what area of work Kent Probation should focus on first in Thanet.
“Justice Seen: Justice Done is an excellent example of collaborative partnership working which will hopefully lead to future project developments where Kent Probation and Thanet District Council work together to make a positive contribution to local Thanet communities.”
Work will begin in Broadstairs and at St Peter’s Churchyard and will be followed in order by the other four areas that people of Thanet voted for as part of the campaign.
Medway Magistrates' hosts Criminal Justice Open Day
18 June 2009
On Saturday 13 June Medway Magistrates’ Court opened its doors to the public for the annual criminal justice system open day.
Agencies from across the system attended to talk to the public about how their agency plays its part in delivering justice. Kent Police passive drugs dogs and crash investigation teams attended to show how they work and firearms officers brought along a variety of different firearms they use.
Magistrates played out mock trials for the public and also gave guided tours of the facilities at the courts, including the cell area. Visitors had an opportunity to have their photo taken in a full judge’s outfit for £1 in aid of Victim Support and, as a result, £30 was raised.
Dave Weston, Area Director (Kent) for Her Majesty’s Courts Service said: “It was really pleasing to see how many people attended. I hope everyone who attended found it useful, whether they were looking for careers advice or just satisfying their curiousity. I would like to thank everyone who contributed to making the day a success and to the many magistrates who volunteered their time to give guided tours of the courts.”
Photo: Police motorcyclists outside Medway Magistrates' Court
Back to top
New ward-level newsletters introduced
17 June 2009
You can now find out how Kent Police, Criminal justice agencies and local authorites are dealing with crime and anti-social behaviour where you live in your local newsletter.
The newsletters, produced individually for each ward in Kent, give information on how residents’ needs are being addressed.
In the newsletter, you will also find:
- contact details of your neighbourhood officers
- priorities for where you live
- meeting details so you can join in and have your say on policing where you live
Your local newsletter is being distributed through a variety of different channels. You can also view the newsletters for the whole of Kent by clicking here.
Multi million pound seizure of criminal assets
15 June 2009
Criminal justice agencies in Kent have stripped convicted criminals of nearly £4 million worth of assets in 12 months.
Under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), the agencies within the criminal justice system can confiscate assets from anyone convicted of a criminal offence who has benefited from crime. In Kent, £3,774,481 has been taken away from criminals in the last 12 months in respect of orders enforced in Kent courts.
Roger Coe-Salazar OBE, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS Kent and Board member of the Kent Criminal Justice Board said: “It is wrong and offensive to honest, hard working people that criminals should be able to gain financially and fund luxurious lifestyles through their criminal activity. We have worked hard on developing a multi agency response to strip criminals of their assets this past year and as a consequence almost £4 million can now be reinvested in public services. The Criminal Justice Board in Kent is determined to continue its hard work to further improve this confiscation figure and hit the criminals where it hurts them most – in the pocket”.
The Police, Crown Prosecution Service and HM Courts Service all work together to ensure that criminals are stripped of their assets. The CPS works alongside Police Financial Investigators to build a case file and apply to the Crown Court for a confiscation order. When the Confiscation Order is made, it will be enforced either by Her Majesty’s Courts Service, South East Confiscation Centre in Dover or by the Enforcement Lawyer for the Crown Prosecution Service.
The recouped money is passed to the Treasury who then in turn pay a percentage to Her Majesty’s Courts Service, the Crown Prosecution Service and the police.
To read the full KCJB press release click here.
National Tackling Drugs Week launched
8 June 2009
National Tackling Drugs Week was launched today (8 June) with an event hosted by Kent Drug and Alcohol Action Team (KDAAT) at Invicta House, Maidstone.
The week runs from 8-12 June and is an opportunity for agencies to show how they are contributing towards tackling drugs and to raise awareness about the damaging effects drugs can have on lives.
A number of different organisations such as Crimestoppers and local support groups attended the event, as did the new Urban Blue bus for Maidstone, which is designed to act as a public contact point during both the day and night in the town.
The bus, which has been led by the Town Centre Management, will be a venue not just for the night-time economy, promoting safer socialising and as a haven for the vulnerable, but it will also act as a facility for key agencies to use throughout the daytime, from NHS stop smoking campaigns to youth outreach programmes.
Crime Reduction Initiatives were one of the groups to attend the event. Steve Fuller, Area Manager, said: “We are an independent service but we do a lot of work with local Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships and with police Drug Liaison Officers. We offer drug intervention programmes and work with criminal justice partners such as police, probation and prisons and today’s event is very important in raising the profile of the service we offer.”
Angela Slaven, Director of YOS and KDAAT and Board member of the Kent Criminal Justice Board said: “Tackling drugs requires a partnership approach from a lot of different groups. National Tackling Drugs Week is the perfect opportunity to show the public what is being done, not just in terms of dealing with drug dealers but also in helping repair lives that have been damaged by drug use. The number of agencies represented today shows that our commitment is echoed by all the different support agencies throughout the county.”
Photo: The Urban Blue bus outside Invicta House, Maidstone