POLICE NEWS ROUND-UPKirklees police are warning owners of Ford Focus vehicles to take extra precautions following a recent spate of radio thefts. It is believed a rumour that a chip from the car radio can be transferred into a Sky box to receive free Sky television may have sparked the trend. Huddersfield crime reduction officer Pc Mark Wall says: “This is a rumour which has been around for a number of years and continues to emerge among the criminal fraternity in different parts of West Yorkshire. Since the beginning of the year, there has been 16 offences where CD players or radios have been stolen from Ford Focus vehicles in South Kirklees. In particular, the Denby Dale and Holme Valley South areas appear to have been targeted. We don’t believe this to be a coincidence and therefore want to make it absolutely clear that these chips do not work in this way. Members of the force have previously spoken to both Ford and Sky who have confirmed there is absolutely no truth to the idea that part of a Ford Focus radio enables you to receive Sky television free of charge. There is also plenty of information on the internet which dispels this myth. My advice to Ford owners is therefore to keep their vehicle and its contents secure and if you have a garage, please use it. If you don’t have a garage, park in a well lit area – thieves don’t like to be seen. When you’re away from the home also consider using secure car parking facilities. Some stereos have removable fronts. Remember when leaving your car to take these from the vehicle along with any valuables. I would also like to underline to these thieves that their pointless actions will ultimately result in them being caught, arrested and brought before the courts. If you would like further advice on how to secure your vehicle and avoid becoming a victim, please contact your local Crime Reduction Officer via 0845-6060606. For more information and advice on crime prevention visit our web site: www.westyorkshire.police.uk/crimeprevention
SHED AND GARAGE THEFTSHomeowners are urged not to give themselves a ' shedache ' this spring by making sure their outbuildings are secure. Bicycles, power tools, lawnmowers and fishing equipment are the top four items traditionally taken from shed and garage thefts. There is plenty that residents can do to secure them. The following measures, if taken, will make sheds and garages a harder target for thieves and may well put them off Check the fabric of a shed to make sure it is secure and free from decay. Consider installing a strong grille or heavy wire mesh around windows to increase security.Fit a quality lock and bolting the fittings to the door, with a steel panel fitted on the inside of the door.
