A SPECIAL crime squad has been set up in Huddersfield.

The Priority Crime Unit will focus on catching criminals responsible for offences including house burglaries, car crime and robberies.

The major reorganisation involves 40 officers split into four separate teams and each includes a mix of uniformed constables and detectives led by a sergeant.

There is also a Scientific Hits Team whose role it is to analyse and link fingerprint or DNA evidence found at crime scenes to suspects so arrests can be made quickly - sometimes within hours of the crime happening.

The unit is head by Insp Mick Rollinson, who said: "The officers are dedicated to cracking the sort of crimes that people fear most.

"We aim to make the best use of intelligence and ideally catch criminals in the act. We want to send out a strong message that if you are prepared to commit crime in Huddersfield, then you'd better make sure you are ready to be caught and suffer the consequences."

Officers in the Priority Crime Unit will build up an in-depth knowledge of local offenders and emerging crime patterns.

They will also study and make best use of intelligence passed to them to help to prevent and detect priority crimes.

Insp Rollinson added: "I'm looking forward to getting the unit off the ground and making a serious dent in the activities of criminals operating across Huddersfield.

"These offenders have no concerns about the impact they have on people's lives. Victims are often left totally devastated by what has happened to them."

Huddersfield police commander Chief Supt Barry South said the public had to get involved in the fight against crime and give the unit the information it needs to target prolific offenders.

He said: "In order for the unit to be successful, it not only requires commitment from ourselves, but also from the public.

"I want people to come forward and share information about criminal behaviour with us to ensure we all have the best chance of tackling issues together."

To provide information, contact Huddersfield police helpdesk on 01484 436659 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.