Leith Community Police Crack Down on E-Scooter Misuse, Drug-Related Crimes and Theft

Over the past 12 days, community officers and special constables from the North East Support Team (NEST) have been actively patrolling the Leith Walk area, resulting in the seizure of five vehicles, including three e-scooters, and the charging of individuals in connection with various crimes. The crackdown has also led to the recovery of class A and B drugs, as well as stolen items, and has seen the implementation of safeguarding measures for a young child found in a vehicle with an intoxicated driver. The increased presence of police in the area aims to address the growing issue of anti-social behavior, particularly the illegal use of e-bikes and e-scooters on public footpaths, ahead of the summer months.

Key Takeaways:

• 5 vehicles, including 3 e-scooters, were seized during the 12-day operation in the Leith Walk area.
• 1 individual was charged in connection with drug supply offences and breach of bail.
• Another individual was arrested for 9 outstanding court warrants relating to shoplifting and theft.
• Police recovered class A and B drugs and stolen items following stop and searches at 3 addresses.
• Officers implemented immediate safeguarding measures for a young child found in a vehicle with an intoxicated driver.
• Leith Community police sergeant Paul Gray attributed the increased anti-social behavior to the approach of summer months, with the presence of e-scooters and e-bikes on public footpaths being a particular concern.
• Special constable Butler from NEST highlighted the success of the operation in demonstrating the capability and professionalism of special constables in delivering high-impact policing to communities.

Statistics:

• 5 vehicles were seized, including 3 e-scooters.
• 1 individual was charged with drug supply offences and breach of bail.
• 1 individual remained in police custody for possessing stolen property.
• Officers recovered class A and B drugs.
• 9 outstanding court warrants were issued for shoplifting and theft.
• 1 young child was found in a vehicle with an intoxicated driver.

Sources:

• (https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/plans-to-turn-empty-edinburgh-retail-unit-on-leith-walk-into-a-new-coffee-shop-and-record-store-hybrid-5132366)
• (https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/edinburgh-incident-boy-10-hit-by-e-scooter-at-beauty-spot-5080042)
• (https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/man-charged-after-police-discover-ps80000-cannabis-farm-5171161)
• (https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/newsletter)