In the last couple of weeks there have been a number of theft from vehicle offences committed within the Crewe & Nantwich area, with no specific area being targeted. In the majority of these cases access has been gained to the vehicles via an insecure door. Help to beat the opportunist thief by taking advantage of the security features that are in place in your vehicle and by following crime prevention advise in respect of what you leave on show in your vehicle.
Please consider these simple pieces of advice and pass on to members:
Ensuring that your vehicle is locked increases the time that it takes an opportunist thief in gaining entry to your vehicle and in doing so increases the likelihood of them being spotted and caught. Take the extra time to check your doors and windows before leaving the vehicle, it'll be worth it in the end.
If you have a car alarm please use it. The noise alone should be sufficient in scaring a burglar away.
Wherever possible don't leave items on show in your car. Try and maintain a tidy vehicle and remove anything from clear sight that might catch the eye of an opportunist thief who is passing by. Be mindful that not only seemingly expensive items such as sat navs, cd-players and tools are taken. People stealing from vehicles may break into a car for seemingly random or inexpensive items such as old coats, clothing, handfuls of change, sunglasses, rucksacks.
Remember that just because you know something left on show is of no value or interest doesn't meant a thief does. A dirty sports kit in a rucksack left on the seat, your used lunch box wrapped in a carrier bag in the foot well etc will no doubt prove of little use to a thief when they find out the contents but if they don't know what is in the bag they may take the chance to break in and see and the subsequent effect on the victim in terms of emotional impact and cost of repair can be great.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
Purse Dip Warning at Crewe
Purse Dip Warning at Crewe
Shoppers in Crewe town centre are being warned to protect themselves from purse-dippers.
Police say people need to be sure they are following basic crime-prevention guidelines. If in doubt, they should stop any Police Community Support Officer who is patrolling the area and get advice.
The warning follows more than ten incidents of purse thefts in the past month. Four were reported on one day.
P.C.S.O Paula Davies said, “Purse dippers can be beaten if people take a few simple precautions. In general terms, shoppers need to keep their purses in a zipped bag and carry the bag in a position where they can see it at all times. Never carry it slung behind you or leave it in a shopping trolley!
“Purse alarms are a good deterrent to thieves, and are cheap. Alternatively you can tie a couple of small bells to your purse.
“If you carry money in a wallet. keep it in an inside pocket. You can also help yourself by not carrying large amounts of cash.
“You also need to be sensible about your cards. Despite loads of warnings, some people still carry a note of their PIN numbers in the same purse as the cards. In one of the recent incidents the thief had taken several hundred pounds from a cash point before the owner noticed the purse was missing.
“Purse dippers will often target people who look vulnerable or harassed. So try to keep alert and look in control of things. I and my colleagues spend most of our time on foot patrol, so if you need any advice about staying safe feel free to stop us and ask.
“We believe several different thieves, or teams of thieves, were responsible for these thefts over the past few weeks. Police Officers will do all they can to identify and arrest them but prevention is a much better answer to this sort of issue. Staying aware and taking a few simple precautions will keep them at bay.”
Ten Points to Beat the Purse Dipper:
v Carry your purse inside a closed bag.
v Carry the bag where you can see it.
v Never leave your bag in a supermarket trolley or shopping trolley.
v Get a purse alarm and use it.
v Carry your wallet in an inside pocket in your jacket or coat.
v Do not carry large amounts of cash
v Never carry notes of your PIN numbers.
v Walk with confidence. Avoid looking distracted or confused.
v Be careful in crowded areas. Thieves often jostle victims as a distraction.
v Take care at cash machines. Purse dippers may be lining up potential targets.
Shoppers in Crewe town centre are being warned to protect themselves from purse-dippers.
Police say people need to be sure they are following basic crime-prevention guidelines. If in doubt, they should stop any Police Community Support Officer who is patrolling the area and get advice.
The warning follows more than ten incidents of purse thefts in the past month. Four were reported on one day.
P.C.S.O Paula Davies said, “Purse dippers can be beaten if people take a few simple precautions. In general terms, shoppers need to keep their purses in a zipped bag and carry the bag in a position where they can see it at all times. Never carry it slung behind you or leave it in a shopping trolley!
“Purse alarms are a good deterrent to thieves, and are cheap. Alternatively you can tie a couple of small bells to your purse.
“If you carry money in a wallet. keep it in an inside pocket. You can also help yourself by not carrying large amounts of cash.
“You also need to be sensible about your cards. Despite loads of warnings, some people still carry a note of their PIN numbers in the same purse as the cards. In one of the recent incidents the thief had taken several hundred pounds from a cash point before the owner noticed the purse was missing.
“Purse dippers will often target people who look vulnerable or harassed. So try to keep alert and look in control of things. I and my colleagues spend most of our time on foot patrol, so if you need any advice about staying safe feel free to stop us and ask.
“We believe several different thieves, or teams of thieves, were responsible for these thefts over the past few weeks. Police Officers will do all they can to identify and arrest them but prevention is a much better answer to this sort of issue. Staying aware and taking a few simple precautions will keep them at bay.”
Ten Points to Beat the Purse Dipper:
v Carry your purse inside a closed bag.
v Carry the bag where you can see it.
v Never leave your bag in a supermarket trolley or shopping trolley.
v Get a purse alarm and use it.
v Carry your wallet in an inside pocket in your jacket or coat.
v Do not carry large amounts of cash
v Never carry notes of your PIN numbers.
v Walk with confidence. Avoid looking distracted or confused.
v Be careful in crowded areas. Thieves often jostle victims as a distraction.
v Take care at cash machines. Purse dippers may be lining up potential targets.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Not Sure? Don't Open The Door
Cheshire Police are putting their foot in the door of distraction burglars who trick their way into houses and prey on the elderly and vulnerable.
Not Sure?... Don't Open The Door' is the message at the heart of Operation Liberal's awareness campaign against distraction burglars. The national campaign, sponsored by the Energy Retail Association (ERA), aims to make people aware of the tactics used by distraction burglars and how they can prevent themselves from becoming potential victims.
Detective Inspector Nigel Groom, of the Eastern Area Burglary Team, said: "We treat distraction burglary as a very serious crime and the emotional impact on the victim can be considerable.
"Making arrests and seeing offenders convicted and sentenced, provides a great deal of job satisfaction, but there is still a victim. We know prevention is the best answer of all which is why we urge people to always question if the person at their door is who they say they are.
"Genuine callers will not be offended when you ask for identification or call the company they claim to be from to check on them. I would appeal to anyone who sees people acting suspiciously around their neighbours' homes to call the police to report their concerns and help to prevent this upsetting and distressing crime."
The campaign uses posters which feature four elderly people and depict commonly used methods of distraction burglary. The posters will be placed at hearts of communities such as Post Offices, doctors' surgeries, places of worship, community centres, bingo halls, charity shops, newsagents and hospitals.
To find how to sign up to your energy supplier's Priority Service Register and Password Scheme by calling the Home Heat Helpline (0800 33 66 99). This is a free phone advice and information service run by the Energy Retail Association. Julian Anderton, Head of Operations for the Energy Retail Association, said: "Distraction burglary is an abhorrent crime, and the energy industry is committed to supporting Operation Liberal - to educate communities and support victims of this crime. Everyone has the right to feel safe, and to know that callers to their home are legitimate."
Crime prevention tips:
• If you're not sure who is at your door, don't open it. Check the identity of the caller by calling the company they are purporting to be from i.e. Police, Council or Gas, Electricity, Water companies. Use the telephone numbers listed in your local directory or provided independently by your service provider. Do not use any telephone numbers provided by the caller, as they may be bogus.
• Many utility service providers like gas, electricity and water, provide password schemes for customers, sign up to these. When unannounced callers claiming to be from these utility providers call at your door they should know the password if they are genuine.
• 'Water Boards' no longer exist, it is an obsolete phrase used only by bogus callers.
• Don't keep large quantities of cash at home, put it in the bank where it is safe.
• Keep doors locked and windows secure at all times.
• Ensure that if you do let somebody in to your home, that you close the door behind them - distraction burglars often work in teams, where one will distract you whilst others sneak in through the insecure door.
• If somebody asks for your help (i.e. needs to make a telephone call, lost a ball in your garden, needs a drink or pen and paper) refer them to a younger neighbour or assist them through a closed door or call a friend or neighbour to come and help.
• If you suspect a bogus caller is at your door call the police immediately.
Not Sure?... Don't Open The Door' is the message at the heart of Operation Liberal's awareness campaign against distraction burglars. The national campaign, sponsored by the Energy Retail Association (ERA), aims to make people aware of the tactics used by distraction burglars and how they can prevent themselves from becoming potential victims.
Detective Inspector Nigel Groom, of the Eastern Area Burglary Team, said: "We treat distraction burglary as a very serious crime and the emotional impact on the victim can be considerable.
"Making arrests and seeing offenders convicted and sentenced, provides a great deal of job satisfaction, but there is still a victim. We know prevention is the best answer of all which is why we urge people to always question if the person at their door is who they say they are.
"Genuine callers will not be offended when you ask for identification or call the company they claim to be from to check on them. I would appeal to anyone who sees people acting suspiciously around their neighbours' homes to call the police to report their concerns and help to prevent this upsetting and distressing crime."
The campaign uses posters which feature four elderly people and depict commonly used methods of distraction burglary. The posters will be placed at hearts of communities such as Post Offices, doctors' surgeries, places of worship, community centres, bingo halls, charity shops, newsagents and hospitals.
To find how to sign up to your energy supplier's Priority Service Register and Password Scheme by calling the Home Heat Helpline (0800 33 66 99). This is a free phone advice and information service run by the Energy Retail Association. Julian Anderton, Head of Operations for the Energy Retail Association, said: "Distraction burglary is an abhorrent crime, and the energy industry is committed to supporting Operation Liberal - to educate communities and support victims of this crime. Everyone has the right to feel safe, and to know that callers to their home are legitimate."
Crime prevention tips:
• If you're not sure who is at your door, don't open it. Check the identity of the caller by calling the company they are purporting to be from i.e. Police, Council or Gas, Electricity, Water companies. Use the telephone numbers listed in your local directory or provided independently by your service provider. Do not use any telephone numbers provided by the caller, as they may be bogus.
• Many utility service providers like gas, electricity and water, provide password schemes for customers, sign up to these. When unannounced callers claiming to be from these utility providers call at your door they should know the password if they are genuine.
• 'Water Boards' no longer exist, it is an obsolete phrase used only by bogus callers.
• Don't keep large quantities of cash at home, put it in the bank where it is safe.
• Keep doors locked and windows secure at all times.
• Ensure that if you do let somebody in to your home, that you close the door behind them - distraction burglars often work in teams, where one will distract you whilst others sneak in through the insecure door.
• If somebody asks for your help (i.e. needs to make a telephone call, lost a ball in your garden, needs a drink or pen and paper) refer them to a younger neighbour or assist them through a closed door or call a friend or neighbour to come and help.
• If you suspect a bogus caller is at your door call the police immediately.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Possible Scam - Government Energy Efficiency Service
A local Home Watch coordinator has recently brought my attention to a scam that she has been made aware of by a friend. At this time it is important to note that this scam has not been reported in the Crewe or Nantwich area and I have had this confirmed by a local Trading Standards Officer. Thus far, the scam seems to have been reported in the Penketh & Sankey areas of Warrington in the North of the county and Trading Standards are aware of this in that area. These scams can migrate as companies often target a batch of postcodes and as it has already reached Cheshire it seems sensible to forewarn our local coordinators so that members can be prepared should they receive a call from this company in the future and also know to report any contact to trading standards.
Thankfully, the individual approached in the reported incident did not buy anything and asked the company to leave. Upon speaking to some neighbours it seems that other people in their area had also been approached by the company. However the company seem to be using several pressure selling tactic such as arranging a short appointment and staying a long time, urging people to make a snap decision to sign up to a deal on the spot otherwise they won't get the deal, pushing for more and more items to be bought / looked at during their time at a persons property.
As always please urge members never to buy any goods and services from the door or telephone. Often telephone companies try and arrange a follow up appointment with the householder on an initial phone call - by doing this they are no longer cold calling as you have made an appointment to invite them into your home. If you require any goods and services source them yourself by finding several quotations, taking recommendations from friends/family and finding accredited companies to carry out the work.
If anyone has any contact from this company please make Trading Standards (Consumer Direct) aware via 08454 04 05 06.
Regards
Home Watch Desk
The information has been reported to me as follows:
One of our members got a call from a company who said they were 'The Government Energy Efficiency Service' They talked about the ways in which a property could be made more energy efficient and asked if they could call and see her, she agreed. They said the visit would take about 45 minutes but in fact was getting on for 2 hours.
Throughout the visit they kept insisting that the energy efficiency could be improved and thereby the value of the house would increase etc and that they could coat the windows, replace a couple of blown double glazed units and insulate the loft for £4,000 which was a very much discounted figure as a result of a government grant they could provide. HOWEVER the deal had to be done that day or the grant would not be available.
It would appear that they are targeting older people who after two hours of being put under pressure may well sign a lot of money away.
What we can tell you is that the man who calls you in the first place is likely to be called John and the lady who visited in this instance is called Sue Horton. It is believed that the company come from the Preston area.
Thankfully, the individual approached in the reported incident did not buy anything and asked the company to leave. Upon speaking to some neighbours it seems that other people in their area had also been approached by the company. However the company seem to be using several pressure selling tactic such as arranging a short appointment and staying a long time, urging people to make a snap decision to sign up to a deal on the spot otherwise they won't get the deal, pushing for more and more items to be bought / looked at during their time at a persons property.
As always please urge members never to buy any goods and services from the door or telephone. Often telephone companies try and arrange a follow up appointment with the householder on an initial phone call - by doing this they are no longer cold calling as you have made an appointment to invite them into your home. If you require any goods and services source them yourself by finding several quotations, taking recommendations from friends/family and finding accredited companies to carry out the work.
If anyone has any contact from this company please make Trading Standards (Consumer Direct) aware via 08454 04 05 06.
Regards
Home Watch Desk
The information has been reported to me as follows:
One of our members got a call from a company who said they were 'The Government Energy Efficiency Service' They talked about the ways in which a property could be made more energy efficient and asked if they could call and see her, she agreed. They said the visit would take about 45 minutes but in fact was getting on for 2 hours.
Throughout the visit they kept insisting that the energy efficiency could be improved and thereby the value of the house would increase etc and that they could coat the windows, replace a couple of blown double glazed units and insulate the loft for £4,000 which was a very much discounted figure as a result of a government grant they could provide. HOWEVER the deal had to be done that day or the grant would not be available.
It would appear that they are targeting older people who after two hours of being put under pressure may well sign a lot of money away.
What we can tell you is that the man who calls you in the first place is likely to be called John and the lady who visited in this instance is called Sue Horton. It is believed that the company come from the Preston area.
Monday, March 8, 2010
News Article - Eastern area Crime Figures
East Cheshire Staying Safe
Crime in East Cheshire is continuing to fall.
Police Officers say the success in reducing crime which was revealed in recently-released Home Office Crime Statistics is being maintained.
The Home Office Statistics covered the 12 months up to April 1st.
In the following three months a total of 5332 crimes have been reported in East Cheshire, compared with 5630 in the same period last year.
Serious acquisitive crimes, such as burglary and vehicle crime have shown some of the most marked decreases.
Superintendent Geraint Jones said, “This improvement is pleasing because they are the type of crimes which affect people’s everyday lives. We are always aware of the fact that having your home broken into is a very distressing experience. Burglary is a high priority for us.
“One of the main reasons for the reduction is that many of the most prolific burglars in Cheshire Police Eastern Area are behind bars. We work hard to identify, arrest and gather evidence against them. Our Safer Homes assessments and other forms of crime prevention work and the efforts made through Neighbourhood Watch also help to keep the criminals out.
“The figures would be even better, though, if everyone accepted some responsibility for safeguarding his or her home. We have a situation where one in three of all burglaries is carried out through a door which has been left open. That is ridiculous.
“In the same way we have a specialist team of detectives who have brought about a reduction in the numbers of thefts from cars and vans. Again, a large proportion of the thefts involve vehicles which have been left unlocked or where items such as laptops, satnavs , ipods and mobile phones have been left in open view on seats and dashboards. That is making life easy for the criminal.
“Cheshire Police Eastern Area really is a safe place to live and we hope that people feel safe as well.
“We are working with partner agencies to maintain this downward trend in crime and a parallel pattern in anti social behaviour, which has also shown a year-on-year improvement.
“Cheshire Police Eastern Area really is a place where you can be safe and feel safe. We intend to keep it that way.”
Crime in East Cheshire is continuing to fall.
Police Officers say the success in reducing crime which was revealed in recently-released Home Office Crime Statistics is being maintained.
The Home Office Statistics covered the 12 months up to April 1st.
In the following three months a total of 5332 crimes have been reported in East Cheshire, compared with 5630 in the same period last year.
Serious acquisitive crimes, such as burglary and vehicle crime have shown some of the most marked decreases.
Superintendent Geraint Jones said, “This improvement is pleasing because they are the type of crimes which affect people’s everyday lives. We are always aware of the fact that having your home broken into is a very distressing experience. Burglary is a high priority for us.
“One of the main reasons for the reduction is that many of the most prolific burglars in Cheshire Police Eastern Area are behind bars. We work hard to identify, arrest and gather evidence against them. Our Safer Homes assessments and other forms of crime prevention work and the efforts made through Neighbourhood Watch also help to keep the criminals out.
“The figures would be even better, though, if everyone accepted some responsibility for safeguarding his or her home. We have a situation where one in three of all burglaries is carried out through a door which has been left open. That is ridiculous.
“In the same way we have a specialist team of detectives who have brought about a reduction in the numbers of thefts from cars and vans. Again, a large proportion of the thefts involve vehicles which have been left unlocked or where items such as laptops, satnavs , ipods and mobile phones have been left in open view on seats and dashboards. That is making life easy for the criminal.
“Cheshire Police Eastern Area really is a safe place to live and we hope that people feel safe as well.
“We are working with partner agencies to maintain this downward trend in crime and a parallel pattern in anti social behaviour, which has also shown a year-on-year improvement.
“Cheshire Police Eastern Area really is a place where you can be safe and feel safe. We intend to keep it that way.”
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Crewe & Nantwich News – Jan 2010
Arrest Leads to Attempt Murder Charge A 32 years old man has been charged with the attempted murder of another man in Crewe more than two years ago. He was interviewed by officers from Cheshire Police Eastern Area CID after being stopped by Police on the M6 in Cumbria. He was then charged; made a brief appearance at South Cheshire Magistrates Court, and was committed to Chester Crown Court. James McNally was stabbed several times when a group of men confronted him in August 2007. Another man has already been convicted of attempted murder in connection with the attack and is serving an eight year prison sentence.
Six Years for Drug Dealer A man arrested in a Police operation against drug dealing in Crewe was sentenced to six years in prison. He was in a car containing two hundred bags of heroin and cocaine when it was stopped by Police Officers. Sergeant John Ruggiero said, “The drugs, with a street value of about £2,000, were about to be distributed in the Crewe area. The sentence reflects the fact that courts, like Cheshire Police, regard drug dealing as a very serious offence.” Another man in the car was sent to prison for two years.
Cannabis Hauls Destroyed Cannabis plants which would have produced £180,000 worth of illegal drugs were destroyed in Police operations which closed two cannabis farms in East Cheshire. During the first operation, in Newfield Drive, Crewe, a man was arrested after jumping from an upstairs window and sustaining serious ankle injuries. More than 600 plants were found. In the second raid more than 500 plants were discovered in a commercial property in the centre of Congleton. A 15 years old Vietnamese boy was arrested in another part of the town centre.
Landlords Warned Police Officers repeated their warning to landlords following sentences on two Vietnamese men who ran a cannabis farm in Alsager. Detective Chief Inspector Darren Hebden said “These cannabis operations are driven by international organized criminal gangs. They rent a house or commercial property and do enormous damage converting the premises for cannabis production. Landlords need to know who is renting their property and what they are using it for.” The two men arrested in Alsager were each sentenced to 12 months in prison, followed by deportation.
Jail for Hoaxer A prison sentence for a Crewe man who made hoax emergency calls carried a clear message for people who misuse the 999 system. The man, aged 21, was sent to prison for 20 weeks after admitting five offences of wasting police team. Constable Paul Myatt, from Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit said, “Responding to these calls tied up the time of officers who would otherwise have been dealing with real emergencies elsewhere.” The man will serve an additional six weeks of a suspended prison sentence imposed last March for arson and making a hoax call.
Arrest Follows Collision A man was arrested a week after a road traffic collision near Nantwich on Christmas Eve which left a pedestrian with serious injuries. A 45 years old man from Shavington, was walking home along Newcastle Road, Willaston when he was struck by a car. Police Officers launched an appeal for information about the vehicle involved. The man who was later arrested is 24 and also lives in the Shavington area. He was released on bail while investigations proceed.
Medal Missing Police Officers have asked for help to trace burglars who stole a cup final medal from the family of the men who received it in 1948. The medal was presented to the Blackpool goalkeeper Joe Robinson after his team lost 4-2 to Manchester United in one of the greatest Wembley Finals. It was stolen in a burglary at his son’s home in Lower Withington, near Macclesfield. Constable Gary Turner said, “Joe was playing alongside Sir Stanley Matthews and Stan Mortenson in front of 100,000 fans. The medal commemorates one of the most significant events in his life. It is very important to his family. If anyone is offered this medal we would like to hear from them.” The medal has two footballers and a football on one side and, on the other, the words “The Football Association. Challenge Cup. Runners-Up. J Robinson. Blackpool FC 1947-48 .”
Six Years for Drug Dealer A man arrested in a Police operation against drug dealing in Crewe was sentenced to six years in prison. He was in a car containing two hundred bags of heroin and cocaine when it was stopped by Police Officers. Sergeant John Ruggiero said, “The drugs, with a street value of about £2,000, were about to be distributed in the Crewe area. The sentence reflects the fact that courts, like Cheshire Police, regard drug dealing as a very serious offence.” Another man in the car was sent to prison for two years.
Cannabis Hauls Destroyed Cannabis plants which would have produced £180,000 worth of illegal drugs were destroyed in Police operations which closed two cannabis farms in East Cheshire. During the first operation, in Newfield Drive, Crewe, a man was arrested after jumping from an upstairs window and sustaining serious ankle injuries. More than 600 plants were found. In the second raid more than 500 plants were discovered in a commercial property in the centre of Congleton. A 15 years old Vietnamese boy was arrested in another part of the town centre.
Landlords Warned Police Officers repeated their warning to landlords following sentences on two Vietnamese men who ran a cannabis farm in Alsager. Detective Chief Inspector Darren Hebden said “These cannabis operations are driven by international organized criminal gangs. They rent a house or commercial property and do enormous damage converting the premises for cannabis production. Landlords need to know who is renting their property and what they are using it for.” The two men arrested in Alsager were each sentenced to 12 months in prison, followed by deportation.
Jail for Hoaxer A prison sentence for a Crewe man who made hoax emergency calls carried a clear message for people who misuse the 999 system. The man, aged 21, was sent to prison for 20 weeks after admitting five offences of wasting police team. Constable Paul Myatt, from Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit said, “Responding to these calls tied up the time of officers who would otherwise have been dealing with real emergencies elsewhere.” The man will serve an additional six weeks of a suspended prison sentence imposed last March for arson and making a hoax call.
Arrest Follows Collision A man was arrested a week after a road traffic collision near Nantwich on Christmas Eve which left a pedestrian with serious injuries. A 45 years old man from Shavington, was walking home along Newcastle Road, Willaston when he was struck by a car. Police Officers launched an appeal for information about the vehicle involved. The man who was later arrested is 24 and also lives in the Shavington area. He was released on bail while investigations proceed.
Medal Missing Police Officers have asked for help to trace burglars who stole a cup final medal from the family of the men who received it in 1948. The medal was presented to the Blackpool goalkeeper Joe Robinson after his team lost 4-2 to Manchester United in one of the greatest Wembley Finals. It was stolen in a burglary at his son’s home in Lower Withington, near Macclesfield. Constable Gary Turner said, “Joe was playing alongside Sir Stanley Matthews and Stan Mortenson in front of 100,000 fans. The medal commemorates one of the most significant events in his life. It is very important to his family. If anyone is offered this medal we would like to hear from them.” The medal has two footballers and a football on one side and, on the other, the words “The Football Association. Challenge Cup. Runners-Up. J Robinson. Blackpool FC 1947-48 .”
Cannabis Farm Found in Crewe / How to Spot a Farm
Dear Member,
Please see information below about the recent closure of a Cannabis farm in Crewe. The article also includes information about how to spot a Cannabis Farm. These types of farms can operate in normal residential streets within buildings of varying values and can be grown in high value properties in affluent areas just as easily as in lower value properties in less affluent areas.
Kind Regards
Home Watch Desk
Press Release
Cannabis Farm Closed
More than 600 cannabis plants have been destroyed after being recovered from a house in Crewe.
Police Officers smashed their way into the three-bedroom semi detached house in Newfield Drive on Jan 26th.
Sergeant Andy Collier from Crewe neighbourhood Policing Unit said, “The plants were in the upstairs rooms which had been converted for cultivating cannabis with the usual irrigation systems and heaters. Rooms downstairs were in the process of being converted for the same type of use.
“As we went into the house a man jumped from an upstairs window and landed on concrete. He sustained quite serious injuries to his ankle and was taken to hospital. We will interview him later.
“We have identified and shut down a number of cannabis farms in Crewe in the past few months. Many of them, like this one, have been a substantial size. These closures prevent drugs going on to the streets and cut into the income of the organized criminal gangs who are often behind this type of operation.
“The cannabis farms we have found have been in various types of houses and in commercial buildings. Anyone who suspects that a property in their neighbourhood is being used for growing cannabis should contact us. We will follow up the information and take action wherever possible.”
Anyone with information or suspicions about cannabis farms should contact the Cheshire Police Information Line 0845 458 0000 or you can leave information anonymously on the Crimestoppers line 0800 555 111.
Signs to identify a building being used as a cannabis farm.
· A pungent and sweet smell on the street with no obvious source.
· Unusual levels of heat coming from a property.
· Unusual noises at odd times such as fans going constantly, or large items like sacks or drums being dragged around.
· Windows that are blacked out by heavy curtains or bin bags from the inside.
· Occupants who are rarely seen or seen at odd times
· The property seems unlived in or the residents are active at odd times of the day.
· Bulky items being taken into the property such as barrels and drums.
· The creation of new air vents or the use of industrial air vents in a domestic property
Please see information below about the recent closure of a Cannabis farm in Crewe. The article also includes information about how to spot a Cannabis Farm. These types of farms can operate in normal residential streets within buildings of varying values and can be grown in high value properties in affluent areas just as easily as in lower value properties in less affluent areas.
Kind Regards
Home Watch Desk
Press Release
Cannabis Farm Closed
More than 600 cannabis plants have been destroyed after being recovered from a house in Crewe.
Police Officers smashed their way into the three-bedroom semi detached house in Newfield Drive on Jan 26th.
Sergeant Andy Collier from Crewe neighbourhood Policing Unit said, “The plants were in the upstairs rooms which had been converted for cultivating cannabis with the usual irrigation systems and heaters. Rooms downstairs were in the process of being converted for the same type of use.
“As we went into the house a man jumped from an upstairs window and landed on concrete. He sustained quite serious injuries to his ankle and was taken to hospital. We will interview him later.
“We have identified and shut down a number of cannabis farms in Crewe in the past few months. Many of them, like this one, have been a substantial size. These closures prevent drugs going on to the streets and cut into the income of the organized criminal gangs who are often behind this type of operation.
“The cannabis farms we have found have been in various types of houses and in commercial buildings. Anyone who suspects that a property in their neighbourhood is being used for growing cannabis should contact us. We will follow up the information and take action wherever possible.”
Anyone with information or suspicions about cannabis farms should contact the Cheshire Police Information Line 0845 458 0000 or you can leave information anonymously on the Crimestoppers line 0800 555 111.
Signs to identify a building being used as a cannabis farm.
· A pungent and sweet smell on the street with no obvious source.
· Unusual levels of heat coming from a property.
· Unusual noises at odd times such as fans going constantly, or large items like sacks or drums being dragged around.
· Windows that are blacked out by heavy curtains or bin bags from the inside.
· Occupants who are rarely seen or seen at odd times
· The property seems unlived in or the residents are active at odd times of the day.
· Bulky items being taken into the property such as barrels and drums.
· The creation of new air vents or the use of industrial air vents in a domestic property
Distraction Burglary - Crewe
Dear Member,
Please be aware of the following distraction burglary that took place in the Ruskin Road area of Crewe at approx 12:15pm on Thursday 21/01/2010.
Unknown male offender knocks on front door of premise and states that he is from the council. He proceeds to say that there is a burst pipe in the street and he needs to turn the water off due to it being contaminated. The house occupant took the offender into the kitchen area and whilst he is looking under the sink, a second unknown offender enters the premise without the occupant's knowledge. The second offender goes upstairs and makes a tidy search of the main bedroom and steals a large quantity of cash before exiting the premise separately from the first offender.
Please make members aware of this incident and ask them to make their friends and family aware. If anyone has any elderly relatives of neighbours please make them aware as unfortunately elderly people are often the target of these types of crime. With recent new stories in the local paper about the high levels of chlorine in the water some people may be more believing of someone knocking on the door asking to check for contaminated water. If anyone has any elderly relatives please try to encourage them to refrain from storing large quantities of money around their properties. I appreciate that some people are reluctant to use a bank but offenders are well aware of all the common hiding places for money such as under the bed, floorboards, kitchen cupboards and drawers, in or on top of the wardrobe, hidden amongst clothing in drawers, in empty tins and behind dressers/units. In these types of burglaries the second offender can often locate cash and valuables quickly from looking in a few key places.
Many people are quite clued up about door to door sales now and generally follow the message not to buy from the door. However, we still have issues with when individuals knock on a door claiming to be of an official nature such as from the council, from the water board, from a gas company etc. It is often in these cases that someone is persuaded to allow entry to their home generally because they are convinced that there has been some sort of emergency or situation and their utilities need checking. Clearly, people are often concerned about being without utilities, especially in this weather and therefore often trust the individuals and allow them entry. I appreciate that is is a hard message to get across but please try and press the following key messages:
Always check an individuals ID thoroughly. It is a good idea to take their ID, shut the door on them, go into your property and find a contact number for the company in question and ring to enquire if someone should genuinely be in your area for the reason stated and check the employees details from the ID. Don't feel rude doing this, a genuine company operative should not take offence at this as it causes them as much concern that people misuse their companies name to commit crimes.
Many utility companies operate a password scheme. It may be worthwhile contacting your providers to see if you can sign up to this. This would mean that anyone knocking on your door who is genuine should be able to provide you with your password (or certainly obtain it from their company).
If practical you can ask the person to go away and make an official appointment to attend at your property in writing. This allows you the chance to ask someone to be with you at your property during the visit. If the person isn't genuine they are highly unlikely to follow up. If you do receive a letter you have adequate time to double check with the company in question that it is genuine.
Remember if at any time you are unsure or uncomfortable you do not have to allow entry to your property to anyone. If in any doubt, keep them out.
Please be aware of the following distraction burglary that took place in the Ruskin Road area of Crewe at approx 12:15pm on Thursday 21/01/2010.
Unknown male offender knocks on front door of premise and states that he is from the council. He proceeds to say that there is a burst pipe in the street and he needs to turn the water off due to it being contaminated. The house occupant took the offender into the kitchen area and whilst he is looking under the sink, a second unknown offender enters the premise without the occupant's knowledge. The second offender goes upstairs and makes a tidy search of the main bedroom and steals a large quantity of cash before exiting the premise separately from the first offender.
Please make members aware of this incident and ask them to make their friends and family aware. If anyone has any elderly relatives of neighbours please make them aware as unfortunately elderly people are often the target of these types of crime. With recent new stories in the local paper about the high levels of chlorine in the water some people may be more believing of someone knocking on the door asking to check for contaminated water. If anyone has any elderly relatives please try to encourage them to refrain from storing large quantities of money around their properties. I appreciate that some people are reluctant to use a bank but offenders are well aware of all the common hiding places for money such as under the bed, floorboards, kitchen cupboards and drawers, in or on top of the wardrobe, hidden amongst clothing in drawers, in empty tins and behind dressers/units. In these types of burglaries the second offender can often locate cash and valuables quickly from looking in a few key places.
Many people are quite clued up about door to door sales now and generally follow the message not to buy from the door. However, we still have issues with when individuals knock on a door claiming to be of an official nature such as from the council, from the water board, from a gas company etc. It is often in these cases that someone is persuaded to allow entry to their home generally because they are convinced that there has been some sort of emergency or situation and their utilities need checking. Clearly, people are often concerned about being without utilities, especially in this weather and therefore often trust the individuals and allow them entry. I appreciate that is is a hard message to get across but please try and press the following key messages:
Always check an individuals ID thoroughly. It is a good idea to take their ID, shut the door on them, go into your property and find a contact number for the company in question and ring to enquire if someone should genuinely be in your area for the reason stated and check the employees details from the ID. Don't feel rude doing this, a genuine company operative should not take offence at this as it causes them as much concern that people misuse their companies name to commit crimes.
Many utility companies operate a password scheme. It may be worthwhile contacting your providers to see if you can sign up to this. This would mean that anyone knocking on your door who is genuine should be able to provide you with your password (or certainly obtain it from their company).
If practical you can ask the person to go away and make an official appointment to attend at your property in writing. This allows you the chance to ask someone to be with you at your property during the visit. If the person isn't genuine they are highly unlikely to follow up. If you do receive a letter you have adequate time to double check with the company in question that it is genuine.
Remember if at any time you are unsure or uncomfortable you do not have to allow entry to your property to anyone. If in any doubt, keep them out.
"From the Homewatch Desk"
Dear Coordinator,
A fellow coordinator has forwarded me an email that he has received to shed some light on its validity. Having had a check online this appears to be one of the common hoax, scam emails that circulates seemingly to cause concern for no legitimate reason. As always there are signs such as the lack of specific details with regards to names and dates, the fact that it claims to be verified, the fact it urges you to send this on to friends, especially women and the far fetched method that the offender is using to achieve their means.
I suspect that this has originated in America and been adapted as with many of these emails to suit the country it is now circulating around. In a brief search I have found copies of this email going around the internet since at least 2002. Out of interest to show how these emails get adapted slightly over time for various reasons, I have pasted the older version that I have found below the version forwarded to me below, these are named 'Recent English Version' & 'Older US Version'. If you have a quick look you will see the body of the original email is the same but certain elements such as where travelling, number to dial, number of police cars attending etc are changed but it is undeniably the same email adapted over time. Sometimes elements may be added or taken away to such email, for example the English one claims it is verified by Dorset Police to give it authenticity and it appears to combine in a further hoax email relating to the use of 112 from a mobile phone.
The claims that the English email make about '112' are incorrect. In reality you can get through to the police dialling 112, 999 or indeed 911 from mobiles. This is mainly to accommodate the fact that visitors from other countries who may not know the local emergency number may instinctively dial their country's emergency code in their phone. However, if your phone is without signal, there is no special number that allows you to get through to the police and it is therefore advisable as always to dial '999' in the case of an emergency. Logically, without a signal how would your phone connect to an operator. The number mentioned on the older email is one that links to the state of Virginia for reporting traffic issues.
Please don't pass this email on, as with others of this nature they cause undue panic. By all means make people aware that this is a chain email so that they can break the chain and make people aware this is a fake if they receive it.
Regards
Home Watch Desk
Recent English Version
I know you don’t all live in Dorset but a mobile is a mobile where ever you live. I didn't know about 112 did you?
A bit of useful advice - verified by the Dorset Police.
The number does work from a mobile.
This actually happened to someone's daughter. Lauren was 19 yrs old and in college.
This story takes place over the Christmas/New Year's holiday break.
It was the Saturday before New Year and it was about 1.00pm in the afternoon, and Lauren was driving to visit a friend, when an UNMARKED police car pulled up behind her and put its lights on. Lauren's parents have 4 children (of various ages) and have always told them never to pull over for an unmarked car on the side of the road, but rather wait until they get to a service station, etc.
So Lauren remembered her parents' advice, and telephoned 112 from her mobile phone.
This connected her to the police dispatcher she told the dispatcher that there was an unmarked police car with a flashing blue light on his rooftop behind her and that she would not pull over right away but wait until she was in a service station or busy area.
The dispatcher checked to see if there was a police car where she was and there wasn't and he told her to keep driving, remain calm and that he had back-up already on the way.
Ten minutes later 4 police cars surrounded her and the unmarked car behind her.
One policeman went to her side and the others surrounded the car behind.
They pulled the guy from the car and tackled him to the ground........the man was a convicted rapist and wanted for other crimes.
I never knew that bit of advice, but especially for a woman alone in a car, you do not have to pull over for an UNMARKED car.
Apparently police have to respect your right to keep going to a 'safe' place.
You obviously need to make some signals that you acknowledge them I.e., put on your hazard lights) or call 112 like Lauren did.
Too bad the mobile phone companies don't give you this little bit of wonderful information.
So now it's your turn to let your friends know about 112 (112 is an emergency number on your mobile that takes you straight to the police because 999 does not work if you have no signal).
This is good information that I did not know!
Please pass on to all your friends, especially any females.
As far as I am aware, 112 uses a system called triangulation so they can also pinpoint exactly where you are phoning from.
Older US Version
This is an actual true story and not one of those Internet stories that are passed on and on. This actually happened to one of my dearest new friend's daughter. Her daughter, Lauren, is 19 yrs. old and a sophomore in college. This happened to her over the Christmas/New Year's holiday break.
It was the Saturday before New Year's and it was about 1 pm in the afternoon. Lauren was driving from here (Winchester, Va.) to visit a friend in Warrenton. For those of you who are familiar with the area, she was taking Rt. 50 East towards Middleburg and then was going to cut over to I-66 via Rt. 17. Those of you who aren't familiar with this area, Rt. 50 East is a main road (55 mph and two lanes each side with a big median separating East/West lanes), but is somewhat secluded, known for it's big horse farms and beautiful country estates.
Lauren was actually following behind a state police car shortly after she left Winchester and was going just over 65 mph since she was following behind him. An UNMARKED police car pulled up behind her and put his lights on. My friend and her husband have 4 children (high school and college age) and have always told them never to pull over for an unmarked car on the side of the road, but rather wait until they get to a gas station, etc. So Lauren actually listened to her parents advice, and promptly called #77 on her cell phone to tell the dispatcher that she would not pull over right away. She proceeded to tell the dispatcher that there were 2 police cars, one unmarked behind her and one marked in front of her. The dispatcher checked to confirm that there were 2 police cars where she was. There wasn't and she was connected to the policeman in front of her. He told her to keep driving, remain calm and that he had back-up already on the way.
Ten minutes later, 4 police cars surrounded her and the unmarked car behind her. One policeman went to her side and the others surrounded the car behind. They pulled the guy from the car and tackled him to the ground .. the man was a convicted rapist and wanted for other crimes. Thank God Lauren listened to her parents! She was shaken up, but fine.
I never knew that bit of advice, but especially for a woman alone in a car, you should NEVER pull over for an unmarked car in a secluded area. In fact, even a marked car after dark should follow you to a populated area. Apparently police have to respect your right to keep going to a "safe" place. You obviously need to make some signals that you acknowledge them (i.e. put on your hazard lights) or call #77 like Lauren did.
I am so thankful that my friend was sitting at our book club meeting telling us this scary story, rather than us at her house consoling her had something tragic occurred!
Be safe and pass this on to your friends. Awareness is everything!
Dear Coordinator,
A fellow coordinator has forwarded me an email that he has received to shed some light on its validity. Having had a check online this appears to be one of the common hoax, scam emails that circulates seemingly to cause concern for no legitimate reason. As always there are signs such as the lack of specific details with regards to names and dates, the fact that it claims to be verified, the fact it urges you to send this on to friends, especially women and the far fetched method that the offender is using to achieve their means.
I suspect that this has originated in America and been adapted as with many of these emails to suit the country it is now circulating around. In a brief search I have found copies of this email going around the internet since at least 2002. Out of interest to show how these emails get adapted slightly over time for various reasons, I have pasted the older version that I have found below the version forwarded to me below, these are named 'Recent English Version' & 'Older US Version'. If you have a quick look you will see the body of the original email is the same but certain elements such as where travelling, number to dial, number of police cars attending etc are changed but it is undeniably the same email adapted over time. Sometimes elements may be added or taken away to such email, for example the English one claims it is verified by Dorset Police to give it authenticity and it appears to combine in a further hoax email relating to the use of 112 from a mobile phone.
The claims that the English email make about '112' are incorrect. In reality you can get through to the police dialling 112, 999 or indeed 911 from mobiles. This is mainly to accommodate the fact that visitors from other countries who may not know the local emergency number may instinctively dial their country's emergency code in their phone. However, if your phone is without signal, there is no special number that allows you to get through to the police and it is therefore advisable as always to dial '999' in the case of an emergency. Logically, without a signal how would your phone connect to an operator. The number mentioned on the older email is one that links to the state of Virginia for reporting traffic issues.
Please don't pass this email on, as with others of this nature they cause undue panic. By all means make people aware that this is a chain email so that they can break the chain and make people aware this is a fake if they receive it.
Regards
Home Watch Desk
Recent English Version
I know you don’t all live in Dorset but a mobile is a mobile where ever you live. I didn't know about 112 did you?
A bit of useful advice - verified by the Dorset Police.
The number does work from a mobile.
This actually happened to someone's daughter. Lauren was 19 yrs old and in college.
This story takes place over the Christmas/New Year's holiday break.
It was the Saturday before New Year and it was about 1.00pm in the afternoon, and Lauren was driving to visit a friend, when an UNMARKED police car pulled up behind her and put its lights on. Lauren's parents have 4 children (of various ages) and have always told them never to pull over for an unmarked car on the side of the road, but rather wait until they get to a service station, etc.
So Lauren remembered her parents' advice, and telephoned 112 from her mobile phone.
This connected her to the police dispatcher she told the dispatcher that there was an unmarked police car with a flashing blue light on his rooftop behind her and that she would not pull over right away but wait until she was in a service station or busy area.
The dispatcher checked to see if there was a police car where she was and there wasn't and he told her to keep driving, remain calm and that he had back-up already on the way.
Ten minutes later 4 police cars surrounded her and the unmarked car behind her.
One policeman went to her side and the others surrounded the car behind.
They pulled the guy from the car and tackled him to the ground........the man was a convicted rapist and wanted for other crimes.
I never knew that bit of advice, but especially for a woman alone in a car, you do not have to pull over for an UNMARKED car.
Apparently police have to respect your right to keep going to a 'safe' place.
You obviously need to make some signals that you acknowledge them I.e., put on your hazard lights) or call 112 like Lauren did.
Too bad the mobile phone companies don't give you this little bit of wonderful information.
So now it's your turn to let your friends know about 112 (112 is an emergency number on your mobile that takes you straight to the police because 999 does not work if you have no signal).
This is good information that I did not know!
Please pass on to all your friends, especially any females.
As far as I am aware, 112 uses a system called triangulation so they can also pinpoint exactly where you are phoning from.
Older US Version
This is an actual true story and not one of those Internet stories that are passed on and on. This actually happened to one of my dearest new friend's daughter. Her daughter, Lauren, is 19 yrs. old and a sophomore in college. This happened to her over the Christmas/New Year's holiday break.
It was the Saturday before New Year's and it was about 1 pm in the afternoon. Lauren was driving from here (Winchester, Va.) to visit a friend in Warrenton. For those of you who are familiar with the area, she was taking Rt. 50 East towards Middleburg and then was going to cut over to I-66 via Rt. 17. Those of you who aren't familiar with this area, Rt. 50 East is a main road (55 mph and two lanes each side with a big median separating East/West lanes), but is somewhat secluded, known for it's big horse farms and beautiful country estates.
Lauren was actually following behind a state police car shortly after she left Winchester and was going just over 65 mph since she was following behind him. An UNMARKED police car pulled up behind her and put his lights on. My friend and her husband have 4 children (high school and college age) and have always told them never to pull over for an unmarked car on the side of the road, but rather wait until they get to a gas station, etc. So Lauren actually listened to her parents advice, and promptly called #77 on her cell phone to tell the dispatcher that she would not pull over right away. She proceeded to tell the dispatcher that there were 2 police cars, one unmarked behind her and one marked in front of her. The dispatcher checked to confirm that there were 2 police cars where she was. There wasn't and she was connected to the policeman in front of her. He told her to keep driving, remain calm and that he had back-up already on the way.
Ten minutes later, 4 police cars surrounded her and the unmarked car behind her. One policeman went to her side and the others surrounded the car behind. They pulled the guy from the car and tackled him to the ground .. the man was a convicted rapist and wanted for other crimes. Thank God Lauren listened to her parents! She was shaken up, but fine.
I never knew that bit of advice, but especially for a woman alone in a car, you should NEVER pull over for an unmarked car in a secluded area. In fact, even a marked car after dark should follow you to a populated area. Apparently police have to respect your right to keep going to a "safe" place. You obviously need to make some signals that you acknowledge them (i.e. put on your hazard lights) or call #77 like Lauren did.
I am so thankful that my friend was sitting at our book club meeting telling us this scary story, rather than us at her house consoling her had something tragic occurred!
Be safe and pass this on to your friends. Awareness is everything!
Dear Member,
Please be aware that overnight between 17/01/2010 & 18/01/2010 that there were two thefts from vehicles in the same street in the Stapeley area.
In both cases vehicles were left insecure and the offenders therefore caused no damage gaining entry. A drill was taken from one vehicle. Loose change from a storage door, a pair of sunglasses and spare bulbs were taken from the second and it appears the boot was opened and looked in, although nothing was taken from within.
This is something for people in the Nantwich area to be mindful of. Please make members aware and remind them to take a little extra time to double check that they have secured their vehicle and left nothing on show. The items taken in these incidents prove that offenders will take a variety of things and not just what many people would expect them to look for. Can I ask that you continue to remind members of the importance of ensuring that they also check that they lock their house doors, even when within their property, and especially prior to going to bed. It is equally as easy for a would be offender to sneak into a house as a vehicle if left insecure.
Please be aware that overnight between 17/01/2010 & 18/01/2010 that there were two thefts from vehicles in the same street in the Stapeley area.
In both cases vehicles were left insecure and the offenders therefore caused no damage gaining entry. A drill was taken from one vehicle. Loose change from a storage door, a pair of sunglasses and spare bulbs were taken from the second and it appears the boot was opened and looked in, although nothing was taken from within.
This is something for people in the Nantwich area to be mindful of. Please make members aware and remind them to take a little extra time to double check that they have secured their vehicle and left nothing on show. The items taken in these incidents prove that offenders will take a variety of things and not just what many people would expect them to look for. Can I ask that you continue to remind members of the importance of ensuring that they also check that they lock their house doors, even when within their property, and especially prior to going to bed. It is equally as easy for a would be offender to sneak into a house as a vehicle if left insecure.
Probation Linked Door to Door Sales
Dear Member,
Sometimes come in from members of the public relating to door to door sales over the county where people are suggesting that they are ex-offenders linked to the probation service. There have been some similar incidents this week up in the Middlewich area. These individuals will often flash an ID (which very few people actually look at) and state or insinuate that they are young offenders who are on probation and that they are undertaking this work to prove that they aren't going to re-offend or a similar story. Individuals will generally have a bag of goods that they are trying to sell the house occupant.
As always the police advice on such matters is never buy goods and services from the door. However, I know from past interactions with members of the public that some people feel sorry for these individuals and give them the benefit of the doubt to help them reform and buy something from them.
Today, I have been speaking to a member of the local probation service who organises the activities that individuals on probation undertake. She has confirmed that the probation service never sanction individuals to engage in door to door sales.
In the main, it appears that these individuals are polite when trying to sell at the door and do not cause issues or become abusive when people refuse to buy. It is however worthwhile to confirm that irrespective of their claims none of these individuals are in any way linked to or encouraged by the probation service.
Kind Regards
Sometimes come in from members of the public relating to door to door sales over the county where people are suggesting that they are ex-offenders linked to the probation service. There have been some similar incidents this week up in the Middlewich area. These individuals will often flash an ID (which very few people actually look at) and state or insinuate that they are young offenders who are on probation and that they are undertaking this work to prove that they aren't going to re-offend or a similar story. Individuals will generally have a bag of goods that they are trying to sell the house occupant.
As always the police advice on such matters is never buy goods and services from the door. However, I know from past interactions with members of the public that some people feel sorry for these individuals and give them the benefit of the doubt to help them reform and buy something from them.
Today, I have been speaking to a member of the local probation service who organises the activities that individuals on probation undertake. She has confirmed that the probation service never sanction individuals to engage in door to door sales.
In the main, it appears that these individuals are polite when trying to sell at the door and do not cause issues or become abusive when people refuse to buy. It is however worthwhile to confirm that irrespective of their claims none of these individuals are in any way linked to or encouraged by the probation service.
Kind Regards
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