MORE than 20 suspected criminals were snared by police who tricked them into thinking they had won a free Christmas hamper.
Operation Holly saw South Yorkshire Police send a card to a list of the region’s wanted, advising them they had been selected to receive a free hamper, and all they needed to do was book a delivery slot.
The criminals - wanted for a variety of crimes - were waiting in when the officers called, and when the knock came, the recipients were arrested and put before the courts.
Those rounded up on December 18 and 19 had responded to the offer from a fictitious company called Herald Hampers. There was a total of 21 arrests.
Some of the arrests were in relation to burglary, drink-driving, drugs offences and harassment. Their unexpected appearance at court has led to many cases being finalised on the day, which include driving disqualifications, a recall to prison, a curfew and fines being imposed. One individual was also remanded into prison custody.
Temporary Det Chf Insp Lee Berry, who oversaw the operation, said: “Some of those arrested were wanted in relation to serious charges, including supplying an illegal article into prison, dangerous driving, drink driving, assault and fraud.
“It’s encouraging that our innovative approach has yielded positive results and we will continue to explore new avenues for apprehending those wanted, which impacts upon the victims of crime.
“Sending officers to addresses where wanted people no longer reside is also a drain on valuable police resources. Anyone who feels they are above the law might want to reconsider their stance. South Yorkshire Police will relentlessly pursue those who commit crime. If you commit crime in South Yorkshire we will come for you at any time, any place and in any guise to ensure we bring offenders to justice and keep our communities safe.”
