Police crack down on festive thefts

POLICE in Warrington are having a crack down on shoplifters in the lead up to Christmas.
In the run up to the festive period police generally see an increase in theft and as such, the Warrington Neighbourhood Policing Units have committed to ensuring that their shopping areas are safe by dedicating extra officers to patrol key locations, including Warrington Town Centre, Gemini Retail Park and Birchwood Shopping Mall.
These officers will increase the visible police presence, particularly at key times when the shopping centres will be at their busiest. They will work closely with stores to identify and tackle shoplifters and deter offenders from committing further offences.
As well as preventing theft from stores, police will be vigilant, ensuring that the public and their property are safe.
Inspector Richard Spedding said: “The run up to Christmas is a hectic time for many people and we want to ensure that we support our local retailers in providing a pleasurable and safe experience for all. Cheshire Police recognise that successful and vibrant shopping centres are an integral part of the local economy and our aim is to support them at this key time of the year.
“As well as supporting the shops and stores, we are keen to ensure that people have a great time Christmas shopping in Warrington. In many of our key locations, our local Police Community Support Officers will be available to speak to and will be able to offer some personal safety advice.
“I would like to take this opportunity to ask the public to take a few simple steps to help keep themselves safe. Always be aware of your personal surroundings especially in busy locations, keep purses out of sight and any bags containing valuables securely fastened. These simple steps will deter any potential opportunist from trying to steal your personal belongings.”
Inspector Spedding went on to highlight the risks to motor vehicle owners.
He said: “Officers will be paying car parks extra attention, as well as the shopping areas themselves, to deter thefts from motor vehicles. I would advise people to ensure that their vehicle is always secured and that any valuable items are placed out of sight. Any bags that may indicate that a number of presents have already been purchased should be placed in the boot out of sight.”
Shoppers are asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Cheshire Police by calling 101.
Details of local crime prevention events can be found on the Cheshire Police website under the ?My Neighbourhood? section. Local officers will also publicise dates via Facebook and Twitter.
Inspector Spedding added: “Cheshire and Warrington are safe places for us all to live, work and enjoy our leisure time. Crime rates are historically low and are continuing to fall. We would like to extend a warm welcome to all visitors to come and enjoy our shopping centres in the knowledge they are safe places to visit and that Cheshire Police are committed to ensuring that remain so.”