Crimewatch: Valley police target valley ‘hot spots’

May 11 2009 By Dave Whitterton

Theft of Motor Vehicle

There has been 2 Theft of motor vehicles recorded in the last week, one being a motorbike in Golcar and a flat lorry in Milnsbridge.

If you own a Sat Nav please remove the holder, chargers and also wipe the sucker mark from the windscreen as this gives an indication that there is possibly a Sat Nav within the vehicle, Theft of stone

In recent weeks there has been an increase in the theft of stone in the area. This usually involves offenders using vehicles to take away path stones or wall toppings. The public are asked to be vigilant and contact the police should they notice any suspicious activity and forward as much detail as possible without risking your safety.

If you have any information in relation to crime, or who is committing crime in your area, you can contact CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111.

Anti Social Behaviour

We have been receiving more calls for service regarding youths congregating in the Market street/ Saville Street Mills, area of Milnsbridge, your Local Officers have stepped up Priority Patrols in Milnsbridge centre

Although calls for service still remain low regarding anti social behaviour due to increased Hi- Visibility patrols in our area. With the nights now becoming lighter we expect an increase in calls, however if you are experiencing problems with youths in your area please contact your local officers so we can 'stamp'' on it, before it ultimately becomes a problem.

Any persons found causing a nuisance drinking etc, will be stopped and searched, and a record of this will be made and stored on Police computer systems for future reference. Officers are now equipped with alcohol testing kits, so will not be fooled by youths drinking from Coke bottles pretending they aren't drinking alcohol!!

Letters may also be sent to parents of these individuals, if it is found that they have been involved in anti-social behaviour. NPT officers have the power to disperse groups of youths, (under Sec. 27 of the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006) and prohibit them from returning to a certain area for up to 48 hours, where it is believed, anti-social behaviour is being carried out. Photographs of offending youths may also be taken. A number of these youths who have continued to cause anti-social behaviour have been referred to the anti-social behaviour unit for further intervention. If you have any concerns regarding anti-social behaviour please ring the valleys NPT on 01484436726.