Van centre closed after Doncaster police raid finds stolen parts

We carried out a warrant at the Ford Transit Centre, in Stainforth, on March 31, and parts from 15 stolen vans were identified as a result of the operation.

All the parts were taken away and the work on the site went on for four days. The investigation is ongoing and CID are looking into it.

No arrests have been made at this stage.

It was one of a number of actions taken on the day as we looked at the issue of stolen vans, which has been a recent problem.

Another warrant was executed on a caravan site at Stocksbridge Lane. One stolen van and a stolen quad bike were found, and five dogs were taken away to be identified. No one was arrested.

Two people were arrested for road traffic related matters as part of the same operation.

The same day saw an arrest in Armthorpe of a woman for repeated homophobic harassment on a neighbour in Armthorpe. She was released with bail conditions, and the victim is receiving support.

And a woman was arrested in upper Askern for reports of criminal damage on cars, and on suspicious of painting the tag ‘princess’ on bus shelters in the town. She is currently on bail.

Elsewhere, we have recently seen tension and antisocial behaviour on the Willow estate in Thorne.

We have put together a plan around problem solving in the area, and will be having directed police patrols there.

We will also be working closely with St Leger Homes, because some of the issues involve their tenants, and with social care agencies, as some of those involved are aged under 18.

Any officers in the East of Doncaster with down time will be looking to spend time in Thorne as part of this, and we are also looking to bring in additional resources.

I would also urge people to call us directly or Crimestoppers anonyously on 0800 555 111 if they have problems, rather than us hearing via third parties.

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