Clampdown on thefts from vehicles

AN increase in thefts of sat navs, mobile phones and laptops, from cars parked overnight in Warrington has led to a police campaign.
Officers are working with residents in the Poulton-with-Fearnhead area in a bid to drive down car crime. Residents have raised concerns with officers following an increase in thefts of valuable items from vehicles.
To combat this police have increased patrols in hotspot areas at key times, and have been offering help and advice to local residents on security issues.
The majority of the thefts have taken place overnight from vehicles that have been left unlocked. Valuable items including sat navs, mobile phones and laptops have also been left on display.
Three men, from the Merseyside area, have been arrested on suspicion of theft from motor vehicles in the area, and are currently on police bail.
PC Darren Burns said: “We are committed to tackling vehicle crime and local officers are doing all they can to reduce the number of thefts from vehicles in the area. Patrols have been stepped up and we are actively targeting those responsible.
“We need the continued support of motorists to help drive down this type of crime and we are urging all drivers to ensure their vehicle is kept safe and secure at all times – with any valuable items left out of sight. We are working with the local community to tackle the issue and drivers are being urged to remain vigilant and security conscious at all times.”
Drivers are being encouraged to ensure their vehicle is locked when unattended and to activate the alarm and/or steering lock. They are also advised to remove valuable items, and to park in well lit areas.
Residents across Poulton North and Poulton South are also being urged to keep an eye on their area and to report any suspicious activity to police immediately.
The Poulton North and Poulton South Neighbourhood Policing Team can be contacted on 0845 458 6390.