Horsham Park: Sussex Police patrols after knife crime spate

Horsham Park is set to be combed by officers after two people were reportedly stabbed in the area in October.

Seven robberies were also reported in the last week of September and beginning of October.

Sussex Police now say they will be clamping down on crime after making arrests in the park.

The latest incident, the stabbing of a teenage boy, took place on Halloween evening.

He was taken to hospital with suspected serious injuries.

On October 4, officers combed an area of the park after a teenager was reportedly seen running from the area with a flick knife.

A 14-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of assault.

On October 7, officers were called to reports of a stabbing in the park at around 6pm.

Three men – a 20-year-old from Crawley, a 18-year-old from East Grinstead and a 21-year-old from Crawley – were all arrested in relation to the incident.

Sussex Police also said seven robberies were reported between September 24 and October 3 in the same park.

A 17-year-old from London was arrested and released under investigation while an 18-year-old from Crawley was arrested and released on bail.

Two men, aged 19 and 20, were also arrested but subsequently released with no further action to be taken.

Sussex Police Chief Inspector James Davidson, district commander for Adur, Worthing and Horsham, said: “We are working with partners to ensure that Horsham is a safe place to be.

“I will be conducting meetings with other key members of the community to step up security and safety in the park area. This trend of increased crime can not, and will not, continue.

“We are engaging with local secondary schools to provide crime prevention advice and reassurance and I will be issuing a letter to parents and students to provide further information.

“Our investigation teams are working hard to ensure those responsible are bought to justice and all lines of enquiry are being followed.

“We have taken the incidents extremely seriously and we took action to ensure an increased police presence was in the park. You can expect to see officers there day and night.

“If you have any concerns, feel free to speak with our officers who are there to help.”