More than 100 'Most Wanted' offenders brought to book

Cheshire Police officers have tracked down and arrested 128 people as part of a police operation targeted at those evading justice.

Last week was the seventh phase of Cheshire Constabulary's 'Most Wanted' operation, which saw efforts focused on rounding up outstanding offenders and wanted suspects.

Teams from across the Force worked to track down and arrest individuals who have chosen not to turn up at court or co-operate with the police.

Among those arrested were people wanted on recall to prison, those suspected of offences such as theft, fraud and assault, some who have failed to appear at court, and others who have breached restraining and exclusion orders.

Seventeen of the 'Most Wanted' were arrested in the Macclesfield policing area last week, which covers Congleton, Knutsford, Macclesfield, Poynton, Wilmslow and Alderley Edge.

Superintendent Pete Crowcroft, Head of Criminal Justice & Custody who led on the operation, said: "Officers across Cheshire have been working extremely hard to track down those who believe they can evade justice, with a significant number of people detained during the course of the operation.

"Individuals who try to evade the courts are denying victims their chance to see justice done and this can often leave many of those affected by crime unable to move on with their lives. Each time we carry out this operation we are reminded what a difference it makes to the recovery process for victims and for justice.

"As a Constabulary we are relentless in our pursuit of those evading the police – this is a week of action that brings extra focus and attention on this important role. And this time we rallied the public to help in the cause, with images of some of the 'most wanted' offenders posted online and through our Facebook and Twitter accounts.

"We remain committed in our pursuit of those who believe they are above the law - and ensuring they are held to account for the crimes they have committed."

Since the first phase of the operation in March 2014 around 1,200 offenders and suspects have been brought in by officers.

If you have any information regarding someone you know is wanted by police please call Cheshire Constabulary on 101. Information can also be left anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555111.