Police are now linking two attempted distraction burglaries in Southwick and Worthing on the same day last week.
The first happened around 5pm in Cortis Avenue, Worthing, when a man knocked on the door of a house last Wednesday 14 April claiming to be from the water board and saying that there had been an explosion up the road and he needed to check taps and water pressure. He showed the woman householder a card with a photo and some initials, but no company name.
While the suspect 'worked' on the kitchen sink, he asked the woman to go and flush a toilet. She grew suspicious, recognising his actions as those of a distraction burglar and said that she was going to call a neighbour to help check the water upstairs. The suspect said there was no need, but the woman went to her lounge to call her neighbour and the man quickly left. Nothing appears to have been stolen.
The man is described as white, aged around 30, about 5' 5", of slim build with short dark brown hair. He was wearing a dark navy blue jumper and dark trousers. Anyone who saw a man fitting this description in the area around 5pm is asked to contact 0845 60 70 999 quoting serial 1339 of 14/04.
In the second incident, an elderly couple in Downsway, Southwick, opened the door to a man at 6.30pm on the same day saying he was from the water board and there had been an explosion down the road and needed to check their taps and water pressure. He stayed for about 20 minutes and then another man joined him and asked the couple to change two £10 notes for a £20 note, which they did not have. They then left. Nothing was stolen.
Sussex Police advise that if you don't know who is calling at your house to take your time - a genuine caller will wait for you to contact a utility company to check their identity. Look up the number in your phone book or from a utility bill, don't accept a mobile number offered by the caller.
You do not have to let people in and if you are uncertain then don't, however persuasive or plausible the caller is. It is better that a genuine caller is turned away than a burglar is let in. Call the police immediately if you become the victim of one of these burglars or if you see anyone behaving suspiciously near where you live.
Tuesday 20 April 2010
Friday 16 April 2010
Keep an eye out (lead and fuel thefts on the rise).
Sussex Police is calling on the public to be on the lookout to prevent fuel and metal thefts across the county.
Since fuel and metal prices have risen, there has been a steady increase in diesel thefts from commercial vehicles and storage tanks situated at farm premises and commercial companies across Sussex. There has also been a significant rise in metal thefts including lead, cast iron and copper cabling from homes, churches, schools and commercial yards.
Members of the public who live in rural locations, near to commercial parking areas or vulnerable buildings are asked to report any sightings of suspect persons, unusual activity or vehicle movement. Anyone who spots any suspicious activitiy should call 0845 60 70 999 or if suspects are present, dial 999 for an immediate response.
Information about thefts can be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Trevor Cox, Sussex Police's crime reduction adviser, says that information from vigilant members of the public is vital if the police are to successfully target those responsible.
"Buildings are being damaged, sometimes dangerously so, and companies already struggling to survive are in danger of going under because of these crimes being committed," he said.
"Owners of vulnerable vehicles and premises can also help by taking steps to tackle the problem and if they are unsure as to what they can do they should contact their local crime prevention officer, through their local police station, who will be happy to assist or arrange an on site visit."
Since fuel and metal prices have risen, there has been a steady increase in diesel thefts from commercial vehicles and storage tanks situated at farm premises and commercial companies across Sussex. There has also been a significant rise in metal thefts including lead, cast iron and copper cabling from homes, churches, schools and commercial yards.
Members of the public who live in rural locations, near to commercial parking areas or vulnerable buildings are asked to report any sightings of suspect persons, unusual activity or vehicle movement. Anyone who spots any suspicious activitiy should call 0845 60 70 999 or if suspects are present, dial 999 for an immediate response.
Information about thefts can be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Trevor Cox, Sussex Police's crime reduction adviser, says that information from vigilant members of the public is vital if the police are to successfully target those responsible.
"Buildings are being damaged, sometimes dangerously so, and companies already struggling to survive are in danger of going under because of these crimes being committed," he said.
"Owners of vulnerable vehicles and premises can also help by taking steps to tackle the problem and if they are unsure as to what they can do they should contact their local crime prevention officer, through their local police station, who will be happy to assist or arrange an on site visit."
Thursday 15 April 2010
BBQ warning following fire at a National Trust site
Firefighters are reminding people of the potential hazards of outdoor cooking following a fire at West Wittering beach on Sunday (April 11).
Fire Crews from East Wittering and Chichester were called to East Head Spit, a protected National Trust site, when a fire started among gorse and grass following a family BBQ.
“This was the first warm, sunny weekend of the year. So it was natural people should want to get outside and enjoy it. But this incident comes as a timely reminder to take a few simple safety precautions if you’re barbecuing or cooking outdoors,” said Jackie Boyle, Community Fire Safety Officer, West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service.
“Thankfully, on this occasion the fire was extinguished before it caused any serious damage. But it could easily have spread. There are some very basic things you can do to minimise any potential fire risk.”
Peter Evans, County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “The concern is that as the warm dry weather continues the risk of fires in open areas amongst shrubs, grass and hedgerows can increase.”
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service’s barbecue basics are:
· Before lighting your barbecue check you are in an authorised area.
· Make sure your barbecue is placed on clear level ground where it will not tip over.
· Position the barbecue somewhere sheltered away from anything that may catch light such as fences, sheds, overhanging trees or shrubs.
· Only use approved barbecue fuel or firelighters – never use petrol or paraffin.
· Keep children and pets well away from the cooking area.
· Never leave the barbecue unattended.
· When you have finished cooking, make sure the barbecue is cool before you try to move it.
· If barbecuing in the garden empty spent ash onto bare garden soil - never put it in the dustbin.
For a full guide to safe barbecuing, including the use of gas BBQs log onto www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire or call the Community Fire Safety Team on 01243 752451.
Fire Crews from East Wittering and Chichester were called to East Head Spit, a protected National Trust site, when a fire started among gorse and grass following a family BBQ.
“This was the first warm, sunny weekend of the year. So it was natural people should want to get outside and enjoy it. But this incident comes as a timely reminder to take a few simple safety precautions if you’re barbecuing or cooking outdoors,” said Jackie Boyle, Community Fire Safety Officer, West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service.
“Thankfully, on this occasion the fire was extinguished before it caused any serious damage. But it could easily have spread. There are some very basic things you can do to minimise any potential fire risk.”
Peter Evans, County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “The concern is that as the warm dry weather continues the risk of fires in open areas amongst shrubs, grass and hedgerows can increase.”
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service’s barbecue basics are:
· Before lighting your barbecue check you are in an authorised area.
· Make sure your barbecue is placed on clear level ground where it will not tip over.
· Position the barbecue somewhere sheltered away from anything that may catch light such as fences, sheds, overhanging trees or shrubs.
· Only use approved barbecue fuel or firelighters – never use petrol or paraffin.
· Keep children and pets well away from the cooking area.
· Never leave the barbecue unattended.
· When you have finished cooking, make sure the barbecue is cool before you try to move it.
· If barbecuing in the garden empty spent ash onto bare garden soil - never put it in the dustbin.
For a full guide to safe barbecuing, including the use of gas BBQs log onto www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire or call the Community Fire Safety Team on 01243 752451.
Tuesday 13 April 2010
Working together to reduce road deaths.
The ‘Safer Arun Partnership’ (formerly, The Arun Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership) are working to promote better driving practices in young people, with the aim of tackling anti social driving habits before they have time to form, and thus reducing the numbers of people who are killed and seriously injured on our roads every year.
Research shows that one in every three road traffic crashes involves someone between 17 and 25 years of age. To achieve a reduction in these incidents, The Safer Arun Partnership’s Road Safety Action Group are working to promote better and safer driving, involving a series of workshops and additional driving tuition through the Young Drivers’ Skills Programme (YDSP). The working group consists of staff from West Sussex County Council Road Safety, Arun District Police, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Sussex Police Roads Policing Unit.
This project is aimed at those young drivers in the Arun District who Sussex Police have highlighted as driving anti socially, committed a speed, mobile telephone or similar crash attributable offence, or whose driving demonstrates a noticeable lack of experience. No driver is ‘let off’ their ticket or summons as a result of attending this course.
Unfortunately bad and anti social driving can be habit forming. The aim is to tackle those issues before the habits have time to form.
As well as saving lives, the skills and information the young drivers acquire during the Young Drivers’ Skills Programme could improve their driving, making it more likely that their driving behaviour will be altered to such an extent as to minimise the chance of future offence based interactions with the Police. The group will also be working alongside the young drivers to help them regain their self respect, and in turn educate them to respect other road users and residents within their own communities.
The YDSP involves the young driver undertaking an assessed drive with Qualified Advanced Driving Instructors. This will give extra experience at a time when the young driver is most vulnerable. The session allows for feedback to be given in relation to their driving, with advice that will improve their skill set and reduce the chances of them being involved in a serious crash.
As well as the assessed drive, the programme includes an opportunity for the young drivers to receive tuition and test their skills under adverse road conditions on a skid pan, as well as attending a workshop where a DVD, Hard Hit , which is just that, is shown. A number of guest speakers from West Sussex County Council Road Safety, Sussex Police and West Sussex Fire and Rescue give a realistic and professional insight into the real life impact of anti social and bad driving.
Over 3500 people are killed on the roads of Great Britain every year, that s nearly ten people who leave home every day never to return. Two hundred and eighty four young people aged between 17 and 25 years were killed or seriously injured on Sussex roads in 2006 - too many - hopefully we can make a difference in the Arun district. If one fatality on our roads costs approximately one million pounds - it s worth investing a little time, money and effort in these young drivers.
Arun Deputy District Fire Commander, Lindsay Freegard who chairs the Road Safety Action Group said, “Having attended one of the workshop sessions myself, I feel confident that by attending this course it will enable these young drivers to be more prepared and better able to safely enjoy the pleasures and freedom that driving brings.”
Sgt Peter Allan of Littlehampton NPT said, "I am pleased to support this programme which gives young drivers the opportunity to equip themselves with new skills and information that will hopefully make them more aware of their responsibilities while driving. The fact that they are in a high risk group is not only an issue for them, but those who travel in their cars as passengers, other road users, pedestrians and the many family and friends that road crashes affect.
"In a month where a young driver died after the van he was driving collided with an articulated lorry in Cheshire, it is my hope, that if this programme saves only one life and the associated heartache caused to family and friends, then the investment made by those involved will have been worthwhile."
Research shows that one in every three road traffic crashes involves someone between 17 and 25 years of age. To achieve a reduction in these incidents, The Safer Arun Partnership’s Road Safety Action Group are working to promote better and safer driving, involving a series of workshops and additional driving tuition through the Young Drivers’ Skills Programme (YDSP). The working group consists of staff from West Sussex County Council Road Safety, Arun District Police, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Sussex Police Roads Policing Unit.
This project is aimed at those young drivers in the Arun District who Sussex Police have highlighted as driving anti socially, committed a speed, mobile telephone or similar crash attributable offence, or whose driving demonstrates a noticeable lack of experience. No driver is ‘let off’ their ticket or summons as a result of attending this course.
Unfortunately bad and anti social driving can be habit forming. The aim is to tackle those issues before the habits have time to form.
As well as saving lives, the skills and information the young drivers acquire during the Young Drivers’ Skills Programme could improve their driving, making it more likely that their driving behaviour will be altered to such an extent as to minimise the chance of future offence based interactions with the Police. The group will also be working alongside the young drivers to help them regain their self respect, and in turn educate them to respect other road users and residents within their own communities.
The YDSP involves the young driver undertaking an assessed drive with Qualified Advanced Driving Instructors. This will give extra experience at a time when the young driver is most vulnerable. The session allows for feedback to be given in relation to their driving, with advice that will improve their skill set and reduce the chances of them being involved in a serious crash.
As well as the assessed drive, the programme includes an opportunity for the young drivers to receive tuition and test their skills under adverse road conditions on a skid pan, as well as attending a workshop where a DVD, Hard Hit , which is just that, is shown. A number of guest speakers from West Sussex County Council Road Safety, Sussex Police and West Sussex Fire and Rescue give a realistic and professional insight into the real life impact of anti social and bad driving.
Over 3500 people are killed on the roads of Great Britain every year, that s nearly ten people who leave home every day never to return. Two hundred and eighty four young people aged between 17 and 25 years were killed or seriously injured on Sussex roads in 2006 - too many - hopefully we can make a difference in the Arun district. If one fatality on our roads costs approximately one million pounds - it s worth investing a little time, money and effort in these young drivers.
Arun Deputy District Fire Commander, Lindsay Freegard who chairs the Road Safety Action Group said, “Having attended one of the workshop sessions myself, I feel confident that by attending this course it will enable these young drivers to be more prepared and better able to safely enjoy the pleasures and freedom that driving brings.”
Sgt Peter Allan of Littlehampton NPT said, "I am pleased to support this programme which gives young drivers the opportunity to equip themselves with new skills and information that will hopefully make them more aware of their responsibilities while driving. The fact that they are in a high risk group is not only an issue for them, but those who travel in their cars as passengers, other road users, pedestrians and the many family and friends that road crashes affect.
"In a month where a young driver died after the van he was driving collided with an articulated lorry in Cheshire, it is my hope, that if this programme saves only one life and the associated heartache caused to family and friends, then the investment made by those involved will have been worthwhile."
Arun Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership gets a makeover – and new name.
The makeover includes a new logo and trendy new user friendly website – www.saferarun.co.uk - which features the latest crime news, projects, community safety information, views from local residents and information about how people can get involved in making a difference in their community. It also features pages for young people giving advice and tips about what to do if they are in trouble and how to avoid becoming victims of crime, as well as information about mobile phone safety and cyberbulling.
The Partnership works to make the district a safer place for everyone. Its membership includes representatives from Arun District Council, West Sussex County Council, Sussex Police, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, NHS West Sussex, Sussex Probation Trust, Sussex Police Authority as well as Arun’s communities.
Recent successes have included high profile weeks of action, community clean ups, the launch of Arun Angels in Bognor Regis, Dogwatch in Littlehampton and the Adopt and Alleyway scheme across the district as well providing funding for community activities and campaigns. Lamppost banners in Littlehampton and Bognor Regis are up for the month of April advertising the new site.
Arun District Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Councillor Roger Elkins, said: “This is a fresh look for a group committed to dealing with the issues that most affect our communities.
“We know from research that a lot of people did not know about the Arun Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership and its work. We hope that this fresh new approach will raise the profile of the Partnership, its work in our communities and encourage more people to get involved with us.
“Our new website – www.saferarun.co.uk – has been designed to be user friendly and engaging featuring all local community safety news and crime prevention advice.
“The Safer Arun Partnership depends on people working with us and we want to hear from our communities. The new website features two special areas, one where residents can give their views about their area and one where people can put their questions to members of the Partnership.
“We hope that our new look will help us take our message to all quarters of the community.”
Arun’s District Police Commander, Chief Inspector Jim Bartlett added: “The changing of our name from the Arun Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership to the Safer Arun Partnership will make no difference to the
excellent work our organisation does.
“I am excited that we are launching a new website to coincide with the name change as it is important we keep residents up to date with our work.
“I believe the new name and the new website make our aim even clearer – to keep the people of Arun safe. “
You can find our more information about the Safer Arun Partnership by visiting www.saferarun.gov.uk
Monday 12 April 2010
Project Kraken (Keeping our coastline and waterways safe)
Project Kraken is a national initiative to get more people reporting incidents they see near the coast that make them suspicious. Tip offs as small as a person not wearing suitable clothes or a boat that has not got enough lighting, could help build up a bigger picture which might ultimately prevent major crimes such as terrorism and human and drugs trafficking.
Local neighbourhood policing teams are also developing close working relationships with people who live or work near the coastline and liaising regularly with the UK Border Agency and other partners to ensure a constant flow of information. The project has started in the West Downs division of Sussex which covers Adur & Worthing, Arun and Chichester and will have been rolled out across the force by the end of September.
Sergeant Peter Allan of the Littlehampton Neighbourhood Policing Team said:
“It is so important that people are aware of what is going on around them when they are near the coast and the many waterways that cover the Arun District and beyond. Our varied waterways offer themselves to a great many pursuits, whether it is sailing, fishing or simply walking the dog along the riverbank. We ask that if you see something like packages being transferred to waiting cars; or boats with too many people on board, that you don’t just think, ‘That’s a bit odd’ and do nothing further with it. Please report it to Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 or tell one of our officers who you can see regularly patrolling the coastline, so that we can decide if any further activity is required.
”Our waterways present ideal locations for those engaged in terrorism, the illegal trafficking of drugs, people or other contraband to further their crimes. Boats, moorings or marinas are also subject to the theft of equipment such as engines or navigational aids. Help us to ensure that Sussex's many waterways remains safe places to visit and enjoy.”
You can find out more about what to look out for at www.sussex.police.uk/kraken
Tuesday 6 April 2010
New Facebook page lets young people get more involved
Alex Peat, 15, and Harlan Geraets, 14, have spent the last few weeks working with Arun’s District Commander, Chief Inspector Jim Bartlett, and Littlehampton’s Neighbourhood Policing Team Sergeant Peter Allan to create a new Facebook page where young people can pick up handy advice about who their local police officer is, how to stay safe and protect their property and find out the latest news about policing and community safety in the district.
Sussex Police is the first force in the country to work with a youth council to create a dedicated Facebook youth page in this way.
Harlan, who is a student at St Philip Howard School, said:
“It’s been great to work with Chief Inspector Bartlett to come up with this Facebook page. I really think it will be a great resource for young people across the district who do have an interest in policing but who might not know where to get their information from. It’s exciting to think that we are the first people to have worked with the police to create something like this. “
Alex, a student at The Littlehampton Academy, added:
“Facebook is the communication tool for young people at the moment. Almost all of us use it and some of us even have access to it on our phones. Being able to get regularly updated information about what’s happening with crime and the police in our district this way is great. We are going to use the site to spark debate and really get young people interested and involved in the work of local police.”
Both local police officers and Harlan and Alex will be responsible for making sure there is updated information and interesting content on the site.
Arun’s District Commander, Chief Inspector Jim Bartlett, said:
“I am always looking for new ways of communicating with people in Arun so when Alex and Harlem suggested using Facebook, I jumped at the chance.
Like the internet, policing goes on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so social networking seems like the perfect place to keep people up to date.
I hope that the Youth Council’s Facebook page will mean young people can easily find out about, be a part of and influence the work we are doing in their communities as well as making them feel more comfortable contacting Sussex Police.”
Saturday 3 April 2010
Four overnight burglaries in Littlehampton
Following the coldest winter on record for over thirty years, Sunday 28th March finally saw the start of British Summer Time.
While most people will welcome the longer evenings and (fingers crossed) warmer weather, it's also a time of year when burglars seek to take advantage. Although the number of burglaries across Sussex are falling there is always a rise during the summer months because of people leaving doors and windows open or insecure.
Sadly for the residents of four properties in Littlehampton, summer may have come a little too early. Just as many of us were enjoying a well earned Good Friday break, officers from Littlehampton Police Station were investigating four burglary dwellings that had occurred overnight.
Around 1.20am (1st April) an elderly resident in The Faroes was woken up, and heard male voices in his property. The burglars made off with a black Advent laptop computer.
Between 11.30pm and 8.30am (31st March-1st April) two houses in Thorncroft Road were unlawfully entered with the burglars stealing a mobile telephone, foodstuff and various items of clothing.
Between 10.45pm and 5.30am (31st March- 1st April) a property in Western Road was entered after the front door was forced with an unknown implement. The burglars left having stolen:
1) A black leather type handbag with foldover clasp and long shoulder strap which contained £70 cash and various bank, store and other cards.
2) A gold ring with the initials JJ on it
3) Silver ‘Concord’ digital camera (3.1 megapixels)
4) Statue of Zulu man 18inches tall, made of pottery with a shield in one hand and a sword in the other.
5) Two Second World War medals - one described as a bronze star with red, white and blue on it and the other is described as being a silver round service medal.
Sgt Peter Allan of Littlehampton Police said, “ We are investigating these offences which occurred over the same night in a fairly small geographic area. Sadly three of the four properties were insecure which made it easy for the burglars to enter. I appeal for people to lock their doors and windows, even when they are indoors.
“I would further ask that members of the public promptly inform us of any suspicious activity they witness, as well as reporting the theft of any items from their premises straight away. Finally keep all wallets, purses, credit cards and car keys out of sight.
“Please contact Littlehampton CID if you have any information in connection with these or any other burglaries.”
Lock all doors and windows when going out or working in the back garden, put all garden tools away and lock your shed or garage. Don't be careless with your wallet or purse, even around you home. Place it out of sight.
It only takes a few seconds for a burglar to make his mark, so take a few minutes to make your mark against them. Discouraging them from targeting your property will help ensure you enjoy your summer.
Please ask for our information sheet, which you can display in an appropriate place as a reminder. You can obtain one at your local police station or by calling 0845 60 70 999 and asking to speak to your local Crime Prevention Officer.
Because the best defence against any burglary is prevention, Crime Prevention Officers will be distributing the 'Keep Cool This Summer' leaflets across Sussex. The leaflets contain the following advice:
1) When you go out, lock all the doors and windows.
2) Don't leave fanlight windows open.
3) When you leave a room unattended, close windows and doors - especially on the ground floor.
4) If you want to leave your windows open whilst you are asleep, fit window restrictors to stop people opening them to climb in.
5) Double check fences and boundaries to make sure they keep burglars out.
6) Secure garden tools and ladders in a locked shed or garage to prevent them being used to break in to your or a neighbour's home.
7) Keep all wallets, purses, credit cards and car keys out of sight.
8) Consider laying gravel on your footpaths or driveway, which can deter burglars from approaching your property.
9)Outside security lighting as well as a visible burglar alarm helps deter burglars.
For more advice on crime prevention visit www.sussex.police.uk or phone 0845 60 70 999 and ask for your local Crime Prevention Officer.
In an emergency, or if you see a crime in progress, always dial 999.
While most people will welcome the longer evenings and (fingers crossed) warmer weather, it's also a time of year when burglars seek to take advantage. Although the number of burglaries across Sussex are falling there is always a rise during the summer months because of people leaving doors and windows open or insecure.
Sadly for the residents of four properties in Littlehampton, summer may have come a little too early. Just as many of us were enjoying a well earned Good Friday break, officers from Littlehampton Police Station were investigating four burglary dwellings that had occurred overnight.
Around 1.20am (1st April) an elderly resident in The Faroes was woken up, and heard male voices in his property. The burglars made off with a black Advent laptop computer.
Between 11.30pm and 8.30am (31st March-1st April) two houses in Thorncroft Road were unlawfully entered with the burglars stealing a mobile telephone, foodstuff and various items of clothing.
Between 10.45pm and 5.30am (31st March- 1st April) a property in Western Road was entered after the front door was forced with an unknown implement. The burglars left having stolen:
1) A black leather type handbag with foldover clasp and long shoulder strap which contained £70 cash and various bank, store and other cards.
2) A gold ring with the initials JJ on it
3) Silver ‘Concord’ digital camera (3.1 megapixels)
4) Statue of Zulu man 18inches tall, made of pottery with a shield in one hand and a sword in the other.
5) Two Second World War medals - one described as a bronze star with red, white and blue on it and the other is described as being a silver round service medal.
Sgt Peter Allan of Littlehampton Police said, “ We are investigating these offences which occurred over the same night in a fairly small geographic area. Sadly three of the four properties were insecure which made it easy for the burglars to enter. I appeal for people to lock their doors and windows, even when they are indoors.
“I would further ask that members of the public promptly inform us of any suspicious activity they witness, as well as reporting the theft of any items from their premises straight away. Finally keep all wallets, purses, credit cards and car keys out of sight.
“Please contact Littlehampton CID if you have any information in connection with these or any other burglaries.”
Lock all doors and windows when going out or working in the back garden, put all garden tools away and lock your shed or garage. Don't be careless with your wallet or purse, even around you home. Place it out of sight.
It only takes a few seconds for a burglar to make his mark, so take a few minutes to make your mark against them. Discouraging them from targeting your property will help ensure you enjoy your summer.
Please ask for our information sheet, which you can display in an appropriate place as a reminder. You can obtain one at your local police station or by calling 0845 60 70 999 and asking to speak to your local Crime Prevention Officer.
Because the best defence against any burglary is prevention, Crime Prevention Officers will be distributing the 'Keep Cool This Summer' leaflets across Sussex. The leaflets contain the following advice:
1) When you go out, lock all the doors and windows.
2) Don't leave fanlight windows open.
3) When you leave a room unattended, close windows and doors - especially on the ground floor.
4) If you want to leave your windows open whilst you are asleep, fit window restrictors to stop people opening them to climb in.
5) Double check fences and boundaries to make sure they keep burglars out.
6) Secure garden tools and ladders in a locked shed or garage to prevent them being used to break in to your or a neighbour's home.
7) Keep all wallets, purses, credit cards and car keys out of sight.
8) Consider laying gravel on your footpaths or driveway, which can deter burglars from approaching your property.
9)Outside security lighting as well as a visible burglar alarm helps deter burglars.
For more advice on crime prevention visit www.sussex.police.uk or phone 0845 60 70 999 and ask for your local Crime Prevention Officer.
In an emergency, or if you see a crime in progress, always dial 999.
Friday 2 April 2010
Supermarket distraction crimes on the rise across Sussex
Sussex Police are investigating a growing number of distraction crimes at supermarkets across the county and believe that the same gang could be responsible for many of them.
Since January, there have been 23 distraction offences in or around supermarkets and these have risen sharply from three in January, six in February to 14 in March. The same method has been used in 18 cases with victims being approached by one or two men or a man and a woman asking directions to the nearest hospital as their sister has been in an accident or they need to get insulin.
Victims are followed around the supermarket and watched when they use their financial cards. The victim is either beckoned over to the suspects car or blocked by the car. While they show them the route on the map another suspect steals cards from the victim's car and withdrawals are subsequently made from a nearby cash machine, often one at the supermarket.
Another method is for a man to approach a victim claiming that he's seen them drop £10. When they check their wallets, he steals cards. In Lewes, a woman got off a bus near the prison, having been shopping in Waitrose in the town, and was approached by three men asking for directions. She later discovered that her card had been stolen and it was established that a member of supermarket staff had seen a man watching her enter a PIN. This was corroborated by CCTV.
Offences have occurred across Sussex with five in Burgess Hill and four each in Eastbourne and Lewes. Bexhill-on-Sea, Crawley, Horsham, Pulborough, Shoreham-by-Sea and Worthing have also been targeted with Tesco car parks featuring in 16 of the cases. Other stores have included B&Q, Sainsburys and Morrisons.
The victims are predominantly late middle-aged to elderly lone females with the offences taking place mostly on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 11am and 3pm.
The suspects are described as eastern European, Mediterranean, Turkish or Polish with descriptions indicating at least two main offenders. Ages of the men range from 20-40, all with short dark hair. When a woman has been present she has been described as Asian or eastern European, aged 20-30 with long dark hair in a ponytail.
Up to seven different vehicles have been identified as being used in the offences. The most common report is of a beige/fawn coloured vehicle, either P registered or with the part index T284. Another common description is of a blue car, possibly a Vauxhall Vectra. Other vehicles have been a Vauxhall-sized silver car with orange spoilers, a red car, a white 4x4, a pale grey people carrier and a white hatchback.
Police are warning people to be cautious about any unexpected approaches while out shopping, especially around supermarkets, and also to be very guarded about entering PINs at any location. Take care not to allow other people to see your number.
Anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious of this nature or who has information about the people involved is asked to contact 0845 60 70 999 quoting 1055 of 16/03.
Since January, there have been 23 distraction offences in or around supermarkets and these have risen sharply from three in January, six in February to 14 in March. The same method has been used in 18 cases with victims being approached by one or two men or a man and a woman asking directions to the nearest hospital as their sister has been in an accident or they need to get insulin.
Victims are followed around the supermarket and watched when they use their financial cards. The victim is either beckoned over to the suspects car or blocked by the car. While they show them the route on the map another suspect steals cards from the victim's car and withdrawals are subsequently made from a nearby cash machine, often one at the supermarket.
Another method is for a man to approach a victim claiming that he's seen them drop £10. When they check their wallets, he steals cards. In Lewes, a woman got off a bus near the prison, having been shopping in Waitrose in the town, and was approached by three men asking for directions. She later discovered that her card had been stolen and it was established that a member of supermarket staff had seen a man watching her enter a PIN. This was corroborated by CCTV.
Offences have occurred across Sussex with five in Burgess Hill and four each in Eastbourne and Lewes. Bexhill-on-Sea, Crawley, Horsham, Pulborough, Shoreham-by-Sea and Worthing have also been targeted with Tesco car parks featuring in 16 of the cases. Other stores have included B&Q, Sainsburys and Morrisons.
The victims are predominantly late middle-aged to elderly lone females with the offences taking place mostly on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 11am and 3pm.
The suspects are described as eastern European, Mediterranean, Turkish or Polish with descriptions indicating at least two main offenders. Ages of the men range from 20-40, all with short dark hair. When a woman has been present she has been described as Asian or eastern European, aged 20-30 with long dark hair in a ponytail.
Up to seven different vehicles have been identified as being used in the offences. The most common report is of a beige/fawn coloured vehicle, either P registered or with the part index T284. Another common description is of a blue car, possibly a Vauxhall Vectra. Other vehicles have been a Vauxhall-sized silver car with orange spoilers, a red car, a white 4x4, a pale grey people carrier and a white hatchback.
Police are warning people to be cautious about any unexpected approaches while out shopping, especially around supermarkets, and also to be very guarded about entering PINs at any location. Take care not to allow other people to see your number.
Anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious of this nature or who has information about the people involved is asked to contact 0845 60 70 999 quoting 1055 of 16/03.
Roadside eye tests for Littlehampton motorists help combat “blind driving”
Motorists across Littlehampton could be pulled over and have their sight tested as part of a new initiative to combat the danger of “blind driving”.
Arun’s Road Safety Action Group, part of the Safer Arun Partnership, will pull over motorists and give them eye tests to ensure their sight meets the required standards over the coming weeks.
Under current legislation, a learner driver will fail a driving test if he or she cannot read a number plate 20 metres away. But according to the Royal National Institute for the Blind, a third of drivers in Britain, around 13m people, could be breaking the law and putting themselves and others in danger because of poor vision, or “blind driving”.
In order to combat the problem, Arun’s Road Safety Action Group, which is made up of representatives from Sussex Police and West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, is backing the national THINK! campaign by carrying out random on-the-spot eye checks over the coming weeks. Last month 64 people were stopped in one day in Littlehampton. One person failed to pass the sight test.
Inspector Phil Nicholas, from the Sussex Police Road Policing Unit, said:
"For most people, eyesight deteriorates with age. Unfortunately the change can be so gradual that we compensate without realising it, which leads to many road users driving with uncorrected defects.
“These operations are continuing in towns across Sussex over the next few months as part of a campaign to raise awareness of this issue. The risks of someone driving with uncorrected eyesight and the danger it exposes to other road users is all too clear. It is our recommendation that a driver should have their eyesight checked at least every two years, more often if advised by a health professional. If you have been prescribed glasses or lenses for driving you must wear them, even on the shortest of trips."
Failing the new roadside tests will mean that drivers are informed that they could be risking a fine, disqualification, or invalidating their motor insurance.
Police will advise them to seek an optician's advice immediately.
For drivers with seriously defective eyesight, police will take action to prevent them from getting behind the wheel of their car again until they receive medical advice. It is a criminal offence to fail to notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) of any eyesight condition likely to cause you to be a source of danger to other road users.
Arun’s Road Safety Action Group was set up a year ago as a sub group of the Safer Arun Partnership to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads.
As the group approaches its first birthday, figures show a 10% reduction in the number of casualties compared to the previous year, down to 428 in 2009 from 476 in 2008 and a 14% reduction in the number of those killed or seriously injured for the same period, down from 86 in 2008 to 74 in 2009.
Throughout the year the group has targeted accident hot spots across the district carrying out both education and enforcement.
Lindsay Freegard, the Deputy District Commander of West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and chair of the group, said,“We know that this reduction is not down to just down to one new group but, equally, the efforts of all concerned have contributed to these reductions and our overall aim of seeing fewer casualties on our roads.
“Our first year has also highlighted the many and varied challenges that exist in order to meet our targets. There is a lot to be done to ensure we continue to reduce the number of people hurt or killed on our roads.”
Arun’s Road Safety Action Group, part of the Safer Arun Partnership, will pull over motorists and give them eye tests to ensure their sight meets the required standards over the coming weeks.
Under current legislation, a learner driver will fail a driving test if he or she cannot read a number plate 20 metres away. But according to the Royal National Institute for the Blind, a third of drivers in Britain, around 13m people, could be breaking the law and putting themselves and others in danger because of poor vision, or “blind driving”.
In order to combat the problem, Arun’s Road Safety Action Group, which is made up of representatives from Sussex Police and West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, is backing the national THINK! campaign by carrying out random on-the-spot eye checks over the coming weeks. Last month 64 people were stopped in one day in Littlehampton. One person failed to pass the sight test.
Inspector Phil Nicholas, from the Sussex Police Road Policing Unit, said:
"For most people, eyesight deteriorates with age. Unfortunately the change can be so gradual that we compensate without realising it, which leads to many road users driving with uncorrected defects.
“These operations are continuing in towns across Sussex over the next few months as part of a campaign to raise awareness of this issue. The risks of someone driving with uncorrected eyesight and the danger it exposes to other road users is all too clear. It is our recommendation that a driver should have their eyesight checked at least every two years, more often if advised by a health professional. If you have been prescribed glasses or lenses for driving you must wear them, even on the shortest of trips."
Failing the new roadside tests will mean that drivers are informed that they could be risking a fine, disqualification, or invalidating their motor insurance.
Police will advise them to seek an optician's advice immediately.
For drivers with seriously defective eyesight, police will take action to prevent them from getting behind the wheel of their car again until they receive medical advice. It is a criminal offence to fail to notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) of any eyesight condition likely to cause you to be a source of danger to other road users.
Arun’s Road Safety Action Group was set up a year ago as a sub group of the Safer Arun Partnership to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads.
As the group approaches its first birthday, figures show a 10% reduction in the number of casualties compared to the previous year, down to 428 in 2009 from 476 in 2008 and a 14% reduction in the number of those killed or seriously injured for the same period, down from 86 in 2008 to 74 in 2009.
Throughout the year the group has targeted accident hot spots across the district carrying out both education and enforcement.
Lindsay Freegard, the Deputy District Commander of West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and chair of the group, said,“We know that this reduction is not down to just down to one new group but, equally, the efforts of all concerned have contributed to these reductions and our overall aim of seeing fewer casualties on our roads.
“Our first year has also highlighted the many and varied challenges that exist in order to meet our targets. There is a lot to be done to ensure we continue to reduce the number of people hurt or killed on our roads.”
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