Swarcliffe machete attack: More police patrol Leeds areas and seize bikes in crackdown on assaults and ASB

Extra police patrols swarmed Crossgates and Swarcliffe in Leeds on Friday in the wake of a machete attack which saw an 18-year-old's hand chopped off
By Alex Evans
Published 17th Apr 2021, 07:39 BST
Updated 17th Apr 2021, 07:42 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Police targeted serious assaults and antisocial behaviour with horses, a bike team and council ASB teams.

Officers stopped and searched people as part of the patrols and seized two motorbikes.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

On Friday police also announced the extension of new search powers which means the force can search anyone or their car at any time without needing a reason.

Police on mounted patrol in Swarcliffe, days after an 18-year-old had his hand chopped offPolice on mounted patrol in Swarcliffe, days after an 18-year-old had his hand chopped off
Police on mounted patrol in Swarcliffe, days after an 18-year-old had his hand chopped off

The decision came after police were called to Stanks Parade just after 9.30pm on Tuesday.

They found an 18-year-old man whose hand had been completely severed.

A 24-year-old man has been charged with conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm and violent disorder in relation to the incident. He appeared at Leeds Magistrates Court on Friday, where he was remanded in custody pending a further hearing.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: "Outer East Leeds Neighbourhood Policing Teams arranged the targeted day of action, following increased reports of anti-social behaviour, criminality and serious assaults in the locality.

Police in Swarcliffe after a machete attack which left an 18-year-old with his hand chopped offPolice in Swarcliffe after a machete attack which left an 18-year-old with his hand chopped off
Police in Swarcliffe after a machete attack which left an 18-year-old with his hand chopped off

"Officers were supported by West Yorkshire Police Mounted Section, the Leeds District Off-Road Bike Team, Councillor Pauline Grahame and Leeds City Council Youth Services and Anti-Social Behaviour Teams.

"Officers deployed from Manston Park, Crossgates and Langbar Children’s Centre, Swarcliffe to provide a high visibility presence in the locality.

"West Yorkshire Police and Partner agencies engaged with members of the public, providing an opportunity for residents to interact with police and partners in person.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"A number of local residents were spoken to, reassurance provided and the general feedback from the local communities was positive.

"During the day of action officers conducted three stop searches, gathered local intelligence and two motorbikes were seized.

"Officers will continue to proactively patrol and conduct searches of the area, in order to keep communities safe and feeling safe.

"Information from the local communities we serve, plays a vital role in tackling and addressing serious and organised crime. If you have any information we would urge you to get in touch, reports can be made by contacting 101 or you can report anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111."

-> Disgusting scenes as drunk homeowner spat in policewoman's face and tried to choke another when officers were called to lockdown party