A NEWPORT trouble hot spot is seeing a dramatic cut in crime after a new police operation put more bobbies on the beat.

Three months ago police launched Operation Dalton to crack down on crime in Pill in the wake of unrest after the death of father of three Lemy Bullock, who died of stab wounds after an incident at a local pub in March.

The operation resulted in a staggering 25 per cent drop in crime, and it is proving so successful it is to continue permanently.

Since April officers have stopped and searched 100 people in Pill, resulting in 40 arrests, many for possession of drugs or intent to supply drugs.

Burglaries in the area are also down 29 per cent, with 15 reported incidents compared to 21 over the same period last year.

Vehicle crime has fallen by 37 per cent, from 19 incidents in April to June last year to 12 this year.

Incidents in the area are down from 342 in the same period last year to 256.

Lemy Bullock's father, George, said: "It's brilliant news. I hope the people of Pill will continue to work closely with the police. It would be a fitting memorial."

Officers say Operation Dalton is producing results.

As part of the operation, each day between three and 13 extra officers are redeployed onto the streets.

This is in addition to a police sergeant, intelligence officer, crime and disorder officer, two ward officers and four police community safety officers dedicated to the Pill area.

Inspector Mark Warrender said: "We have a dedicated, visible patrol able to engage with the public.

"And we are determined that we are going to tackle the underlying causes of crime in Pill."

Officers are also to hold a public meeting in July to give residents the chance to voice their continuing concerns.

Florist Anne Barton was at the forefront of the campaign for action in Pill. She said: "It's good news for Pill.

"Things have seemed a lot quieter in the area since Lemy's death.

"If any good can come out of such a bad thing, then that's great. We just have to make sure we keep on with the work."

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