News Beat
Busy first nightshift of 2026 for Durham Police custody staff
While many revellers were enjoying the celebrations welcoming in the New Year, custody officers and staff were dealing with some less than festive first footers.
D Relief custody drew the short straw on the force work rota, staffing the custody suite in what proved a busy start to the New Year.
They had to deal with dozens of prisoners brought into custody by colleagues from a variety of incidents across the county.
Many of those detained were arrested for assaults, but officers also detained suspects for drink driving, criminal damage, affray, sexual assault and burglary.
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Custody staff urged anyone continuing the celebrations over the weekend to, “stay safe and to look after each other”, stressing: “The last thing we want is for you to be starting the New Year in a police cell.”
Their New Year message added: “Remember, if you need us, but it’s not an emergency, you can call 101 or contact us at www.durham.police.uk, our force website.
“Here’s to a happy and safe year ahead.”
