Lives, not knives – week of action in St Albans

Knife sweeps, a test purchase operation and work in schools and colleges to educate young people about the dangers of carrying knives took place in St Albans last week in support of the national Sceptre week of action (Monday 11 to Sunday 17 November).

Knife sweeps took place at Oaklands College and Links Academy as well as in local parks across the district (including Sherwood Avenue pictured with PCSO Chris Stokes and Dave Munns, Hixberry Lane and Highfield Park). No loose or hidden knives were found.

Sixty-four knives, including several dangerous ones, (pictured) have been taken off the streets in St Albans since 1 September this year. Sergeant Mike Saunders and Prevention and Diversion PC Fiona Peters Spoke to dozens to people on the market on Wednesday (13 November) about Operation Sceptre week, the rationale behind it and assured people that Herts is a very safe county.  They spoke to a few parents about the good work in schools relating to this issue and, as usual, provided crime prevention and reporting advice.

Primary pupils were educated about the dangers of knives and teenagers were given the opportunity to try a knife scenario on VR headsets at Oaklands College.

Two St Albans shops failed to stop two undercover police cadets – aged 16 and 17 years-old – from buying kitchen knives and a pen knife.  A Harpenden shop also allowed a cadet to buy a pair of scissors. The other shops complied with the law and checked the cadets age correctly. Senior staff at the shops were spoken to by officers and if they fail again, Trading Standards will get involved with providing the necessary supporting and training advice and potentially carry out their own test purchase.

St Albans district Chief Inspector Martin Turpin said: “Knife related crime remains low in the St Albans district, but the campaign aims to reinforce the message that carrying a knife is illegal and will not keep you safe.

“We use a variety of tactics throughout the year to educate and help prevent people, especially young people, arming themselves with a knife. I’m pleased most shops passed the test purchase operation run by our police cadets. Please do speak to your children about the dangers of knives and remember - Lives not Knives.”

If you are concerned or have information about someone carrying knives or are aware of anyone involved in knife crime you can report this by calling the Hertfordshire Constabulary non-emergency number 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form.  

If you would like information on support services relating to knife crime, visit the ‘Fearless’ website.