Crime
Police figures show drug driving has tripled over two years
A police crackdown on drug driving over Christmas has seen arrests surge by almost a third in Hampshire.
The operation saw 74 arrests for drug driving in Hampshire – a 28% increase from the previous year. This figure is three times higher than just two years ago.
Road Safety Sergeant Rob Heard said that drink and drug drivers were being “complacent about the realities of road deaths and serious injuries”.
He added that “such behaviour on our roads has far-reaching effects not just for the impaired driver, but for any innocent road users affected by their destructive decisions”.
“Our message is simple – don’t mix drink or drugs with driving, they may stay longer in your system than you think – it’s not worth the risk.”
Operation Holly is a month-long joint operation by the Hampshire and Thames Valley police departments. It takes place between December 1st 2018 and January 1st 2019.
More than 280 drivers were tested for drugs during the joint operation. Half of which showed a positive result. With 17-24 year olds being the worst offenders.
Over 4,200 breath tests by road police across the two areas with 155 over the limit. The worst offending drink driving age group were 35-49 years.
In total 666 impaired drivers were arrested.
Crime
Police issue advice after linked burglaries in Chineham
Officers are investigating two burglaries that happened on the same day in De Port Gardens, Chineham, Basingstoke.
According to Hampshire Constabulary, both incidents happened on Thursday, 23 October.
The first burglary took place between 9am and midnight, with items including a silver watch, gold and silver jewellery, and cash reported stolen.
The second occurred between 1.30pm and 10pm, during which cash, jewellery, and bags were taken.
Police believe the two burglaries are connected and are carrying out inquiries in the area.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101.
Police advice to local jewellers
Hampshire Constabulary is urging local jewellers – particularly those with high-value gold jewellery – to take extra precautions, as such items are often targeted by burglars.
Police recommendations:
- – Investing in a safe and monitored alarm system.
- – Ensuring doors and windows are locked and using light timers when out.
- – Keeping an online inventory and photographs of jewellery via Immobilise.
- – Booking a free home security survey with the Blue Lamp Trust on 0300 777 0157.
- – Avoiding sharing details of holidays or absences on social media.
Suspicious activity can be reported by calling 101.
Crime
Hampshire police renew appeal in unsolved murder case, 36 years on
Detectives in Hampshire have renewed their appeal for information into the unsolved murder of Southampton jeweller Richard “Ricky” Haywood, who was killed in his flat above Ambiance Jewellers on Shirley Road, Totton, on 16 October 1989.
Mr Haywood, 36, was shot multiple times inside his home.
Despite decades of investigation, no one has been charged in connection with his murder.
Case eeopened & New Evidence Reviewed
The investigation was reopened in 2024, with Hampshire Constabulary reviewing:
- Thousands of reports and witness statements
- Fresh interviews with over 200 people linked to the original investigation
Police say an anonymous tip submitted to Crimestoppers in 2004, once considered minor, now forms part of a broader intelligence picture that could be crucial in solving the case.
“When we received this information back in 2004 it was just one fragment which, alone, didn’t add much to the investigation. However, together with new information we’ve gathered, it is now starting to build a clearer picture.” – Det Insp Elizabeth Brunt, senior investigating officer
Appeal for Information
Investigators are asking the person who made the 2004 tip – or anyone who recognises the details – to come forward.
- Contact Hampshire Police: 101, quoting Operation Tango
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously: 0800 555 111
Those providing information can remain completely anonymous.
Crimestoppers is offering a £20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
“After more than four decades, someone out there still holds the final piece of information that could help deliver justice for Ricky and closure for his loved ones. We know that silence can come from fear or loyalty, but Crimestoppers provides a completely safe way to share what you know without ever revealing your identity.” – Beth Simpson, south central west regional manager, Crimestoppers
Possible accomplices & wider appeal
Police believe Mr Haywood’s killer may have had at least one accomplice, and that some people with vital knowledge may now live outside Hampshire.
Media outlets across the region are helping spread the appeal, encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
Family awaiting answers
After 36 years, Ricky Haywood’s family are still waiting for answers.
Police say that with ongoing investigations and new evidence being reviewed, they are closer than ever to uncovering what happened that night in Totton.
Crime
Police hunt for two men following Stanmore house burglary
Hampshire police are searching for two men following a burglary in Winchester.
The incident took place at house in Stanmore Lane between 5:45pm and 8:10pm on Friday 15 November.
The thieves entered around the back of the house and stole jewellery.
Two men were then seen leaving the property through a back gate.
One man was seen wearing a black coat, trainers with white soles and a grey top, and has been described as being about five foot ten inches tall.
The other man is said to be about five foot ten inches tall and was wearing a black coat, a blue hooded top and was carrying a rucksack.
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary has urged anyone with information to come forward.
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