£30,000 Car Seized in Drugs Op.
Police say the seizure of a £30,000 car during an operation against drug dealing in Crewe forms part of an on-going message to people involved in crime.
The three years old BMW X5 was one of three cars seized during the operation in the early hours of July 20th which resulted in the arrest of twenty people at addresses across Crewe.
Police Officers also took possession of £10,000 in cash. Heroin and crack cocaine valued at £6,000 was recovered.
Detective Inspector Nigel Groom said, “The seizure of cash which has resulted from crime and of property which we believe has been bought with the profits of crime is now standard procedure.
“Teams of specialist investigators prepare cases to have property confiscated under the Proceeds of Crime Act and they are extremely successful.
“When a court makes a confiscation order the property is sold, any outstanding finance is cleared, and the balance goes into public funds, to be used to fight crime.
“People involved in crime need to realize they may not only face prison sentences, but are likely to lose cash and assets which have resulted from it. This is taking the profit out of crime.”
Friday, July 30, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Scam Phone Calls
Please be aware of a recent article that I have found that contains useful information about what can be a scam technique via the telephone relating to your computer. It relates to computer security, an issue that most of us who use computers can have worries about due to the improving technologies available. As always, the best and most effective advice we can offer is never be drawn in to buying any goods and services from the telephone. If people have concerns about their computer security or how their system is operating it is a better idea to get advice from a shop/specialist that you source yourself. By doing this you can compare quotes, reviews and take recommendations from friends and family and aren't pressured into an on the spot decision from someone you do not know via the phone.
Regards
Home Watch Desk
Scammers Promoting Rogue Anti-Virus Through Phone Calls
Malware purveyors seem to be increasing their use of telephones for malicious purposes, which resulted in increased reports pouring in from the UK of cold phone calls to trick people into downloading fake anti-virus products.
In past few weeks, some people got dire warnings that their computer systems are infected with malware that can be eliminated with only some clicks of the mouse. On July 2, 2010, antivirus vendor ESET UK, mentioning the increase in such calls, advised Internet users to remain cautious.
While the pitches differ, they usually involve a person who sounds as a professional calling from some telephone center. He warns the user on the other end that malware has been discovered on his system which is now infecting other PCs.
For sceptical users, the person may ask to open Windows event viewer for proof of infection. Ultimately, the user is asked to provide the caller remote access to his computer through logmein123.com or some other service. Thus, the scammers will implant fake anti-virus software as well as other malware which is too difficult to get rid of.
The scammers are fearless when potential victims tell a stranger calling them from an anonymous place that they don't need their help.
Just few days back, people living in Bridport (England) got a cold call from a person claiming to be from some reputed company like Microsoft, Symantec or Norton. The receivers were informed that their computer has been infected by a nasty virus and that it is now sending that virus to others through the Internet. They are told that it can be easily removed and thus, they are tricked into allowing the scammers remote access to their PCs. They are then bombarded with several technical jargon as well as complex procedures.
Then the receivers are asked for the payment details through a card and the victim is asked for around £180 to eliminate the virus.
According to security experts, this kind of scam has been prevailing for more than 12 months, but they know very little about those behind the calls, except the domain names - go4saling.com, supportonclick.com and metupport.com.
Regards
Home Watch Desk
Scammers Promoting Rogue Anti-Virus Through Phone Calls
Malware purveyors seem to be increasing their use of telephones for malicious purposes, which resulted in increased reports pouring in from the UK of cold phone calls to trick people into downloading fake anti-virus products.
In past few weeks, some people got dire warnings that their computer systems are infected with malware that can be eliminated with only some clicks of the mouse. On July 2, 2010, antivirus vendor ESET UK, mentioning the increase in such calls, advised Internet users to remain cautious.
While the pitches differ, they usually involve a person who sounds as a professional calling from some telephone center. He warns the user on the other end that malware has been discovered on his system which is now infecting other PCs.
For sceptical users, the person may ask to open Windows event viewer for proof of infection. Ultimately, the user is asked to provide the caller remote access to his computer through logmein123.com or some other service. Thus, the scammers will implant fake anti-virus software as well as other malware which is too difficult to get rid of.
The scammers are fearless when potential victims tell a stranger calling them from an anonymous place that they don't need their help.
Just few days back, people living in Bridport (England) got a cold call from a person claiming to be from some reputed company like Microsoft, Symantec or Norton. The receivers were informed that their computer has been infected by a nasty virus and that it is now sending that virus to others through the Internet. They are told that it can be easily removed and thus, they are tricked into allowing the scammers remote access to their PCs. They are then bombarded with several technical jargon as well as complex procedures.
Then the receivers are asked for the payment details through a card and the victim is asked for around £180 to eliminate the virus.
According to security experts, this kind of scam has been prevailing for more than 12 months, but they know very little about those behind the calls, except the domain names - go4saling.com, supportonclick.com and metupport.com.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
News Update - Drugs Raid Crewe
Police Raids Target Drugs Ring
Police Officers smashed their way into houses in Crewe just after dawn today to arrest more than twenty people on drug dealing charges.
Nearly 200 officers, some wearing full protective clothing, were involved in the early morning raids which took place simultaneously at more than 20 houses and flats in various parts of the town.
As people were led away in handcuffs, support teams of specialist Police Officers and Police Staff moved in to houses and flats to search the premises.
Armed officers were present at one of the addresses. Police said this was “purely precautionary”.
At the same time three teams of Police Officers from Cheshire raided houses on Merseyside to arrest three more people.
Chief Inspector Darren Hebden, Crime Manager for Cheshire Police Eastern Area said, “The aim of these arrests is to take out a drug dealing network which has built up in Crewe to distribute Class A drugs, mostly heroin and crack cocaine, which are brought in from Merseyside.
“This is the culmination of many months of covert police work to identify the dealers and gather evidence against them. The search teams will bring out any drugs they find, together with equipment used to prepare drugs, but the main purpose of this morning’s operation was to make arrests.
“The teams will also seize cash and any assets, including cars, which are likely to have resulted from drug dealing. At a later stage we will apply to the courts for the money and assets to be confiscated. It is important to drive home the message that people will not be allowed to benefit financially from crime.
“People who have been taken into custody today will be processed and charged, either with conspiracy to supply Class A Drugs or with supplying Class A drugs. They will appear before a special court tomorrow.
“This is part of the Cheshire Police Strikeout campaign to tackle crime which affects people’s everyday lives. It has been a very successful operation involving people from many different units across the force.”
Inspector Andrew Smith, the officer in charge of Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit said, “Like all towns of its size, Crewe has a number of drug addicts and criminals who try to make money from supplying them.
“Drug dealing has repercussions right across the community. It injects elements of fear and suspicion into any neighbourhood where it is taking place. It drags the area down. It also drives other crime such as burglary, car crime and shoplifting as addicts try to finance their habit.
“After these arrests today, support will be offered by our partner agencies to addicts who are suddenly deprived of their supply and they will be offered opportunities to break their addiction.
“Police Officers and Police Community Support Officers will also tour the areas where arrests have been made talking to people and distributing leaflets explaining what has happened.
“Police Officers and Police Staff at all levels are involved in a constant campaign to tackle the drugs issue.
“Many of our investigations into drugs and drug dealing networks begin with some information from a member of the public. Sometimes it comes on the telephone; sometimes it is raised at a neighbourhood meeting or police surgery; sometimes it is simply passed on in a conversation with a Police Officer or Police Community Support Officer on their beat.
“If you are concerned about drug abuse or drug dealing in your area do not hesitate to contact us. We will always follow up information.”
Anyone with information about drug dealing can call the Cheshire Police Information Line 0845 458 0000, or you can leave information anonymously on the Crimestoppers Line 0800 555 111.
Police Officers smashed their way into houses in Crewe just after dawn today to arrest more than twenty people on drug dealing charges.
Nearly 200 officers, some wearing full protective clothing, were involved in the early morning raids which took place simultaneously at more than 20 houses and flats in various parts of the town.
As people were led away in handcuffs, support teams of specialist Police Officers and Police Staff moved in to houses and flats to search the premises.
Armed officers were present at one of the addresses. Police said this was “purely precautionary”.
At the same time three teams of Police Officers from Cheshire raided houses on Merseyside to arrest three more people.
Chief Inspector Darren Hebden, Crime Manager for Cheshire Police Eastern Area said, “The aim of these arrests is to take out a drug dealing network which has built up in Crewe to distribute Class A drugs, mostly heroin and crack cocaine, which are brought in from Merseyside.
“This is the culmination of many months of covert police work to identify the dealers and gather evidence against them. The search teams will bring out any drugs they find, together with equipment used to prepare drugs, but the main purpose of this morning’s operation was to make arrests.
“The teams will also seize cash and any assets, including cars, which are likely to have resulted from drug dealing. At a later stage we will apply to the courts for the money and assets to be confiscated. It is important to drive home the message that people will not be allowed to benefit financially from crime.
“People who have been taken into custody today will be processed and charged, either with conspiracy to supply Class A Drugs or with supplying Class A drugs. They will appear before a special court tomorrow.
“This is part of the Cheshire Police Strikeout campaign to tackle crime which affects people’s everyday lives. It has been a very successful operation involving people from many different units across the force.”
Inspector Andrew Smith, the officer in charge of Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit said, “Like all towns of its size, Crewe has a number of drug addicts and criminals who try to make money from supplying them.
“Drug dealing has repercussions right across the community. It injects elements of fear and suspicion into any neighbourhood where it is taking place. It drags the area down. It also drives other crime such as burglary, car crime and shoplifting as addicts try to finance their habit.
“After these arrests today, support will be offered by our partner agencies to addicts who are suddenly deprived of their supply and they will be offered opportunities to break their addiction.
“Police Officers and Police Community Support Officers will also tour the areas where arrests have been made talking to people and distributing leaflets explaining what has happened.
“Police Officers and Police Staff at all levels are involved in a constant campaign to tackle the drugs issue.
“Many of our investigations into drugs and drug dealing networks begin with some information from a member of the public. Sometimes it comes on the telephone; sometimes it is raised at a neighbourhood meeting or police surgery; sometimes it is simply passed on in a conversation with a Police Officer or Police Community Support Officer on their beat.
“If you are concerned about drug abuse or drug dealing in your area do not hesitate to contact us. We will always follow up information.”
Anyone with information about drug dealing can call the Cheshire Police Information Line 0845 458 0000, or you can leave information anonymously on the Crimestoppers Line 0800 555 111.
Friday, July 16, 2010
“World Cup” Success- on the Roads
Police Officers say they believe a drink-drive campaign in East Cheshire during the World Cup made a major contribution to road safety.
They arrested forty one people for drinking and driving during the two weeks that the England team was in the competition.
Inspector Paul Broadhurst, in charge of the Cheshire Police Eastern Area Roads Policing Unit said, “That is fifty per cent more than the average figure for a fortnight.”
“We were concerned before the competition that people who had watched matches at pubs or at the homes of friends might turn out on to the road when they had been drinking. That’s exactly what seems to have happened.
“It is disappointing that people have behaved like this but at least a significant number of the drivers who could have caused a real hazard were taken off the roads.
“They now face court action which will stop them getting behind the wheel for a much longer period.”
During the campaign, officers targeted key arterial routes, “red routes” which have higher than average figures for collisions and “hot spots” where drinking and driving is known to be a problem.
Inspector Broadhurst said, “It’s an issue we take seriously at all times. People who drink and drive are a real danger to themselves and to other road users. One in five of all fatal collisions on Cheshire roads involves drink in one way or another.
“We will continue to take action against drinking drivers and to work with partner agencies to educate people about the danger it presents”
The “World Cup” campaign was the first of its type for the Road Policing Unit, which was set up as part of recent changes made to the structure of Cheshire Police Eastern Area.
Inspector Broadhurst said, “In policing terms it was very successful. Denying criminals the use of the roads is a major part of our role and as well as the drink-drivers, we made arrests which led to charges of burglary, theft from vehicles, going equipped for crime and possession of drugs
They arrested forty one people for drinking and driving during the two weeks that the England team was in the competition.
Inspector Paul Broadhurst, in charge of the Cheshire Police Eastern Area Roads Policing Unit said, “That is fifty per cent more than the average figure for a fortnight.”
“We were concerned before the competition that people who had watched matches at pubs or at the homes of friends might turn out on to the road when they had been drinking. That’s exactly what seems to have happened.
“It is disappointing that people have behaved like this but at least a significant number of the drivers who could have caused a real hazard were taken off the roads.
“They now face court action which will stop them getting behind the wheel for a much longer period.”
During the campaign, officers targeted key arterial routes, “red routes” which have higher than average figures for collisions and “hot spots” where drinking and driving is known to be a problem.
Inspector Broadhurst said, “It’s an issue we take seriously at all times. People who drink and drive are a real danger to themselves and to other road users. One in five of all fatal collisions on Cheshire roads involves drink in one way or another.
“We will continue to take action against drinking drivers and to work with partner agencies to educate people about the danger it presents”
The “World Cup” campaign was the first of its type for the Road Policing Unit, which was set up as part of recent changes made to the structure of Cheshire Police Eastern Area.
Inspector Broadhurst said, “In policing terms it was very successful. Denying criminals the use of the roads is a major part of our role and as well as the drink-drivers, we made arrests which led to charges of burglary, theft from vehicles, going equipped for crime and possession of drugs
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Door Step Callers Update
I sent out an email about doorstep pedlars last week as someone reported that they had been approached by such an individual recently. Since this time quite a few people have emailed and mentioned they have received similar calls. From the descriptions provided it appears there may be a number of individuals trying this story, thus far only males have been reported as trying to sell items at the door.
Can I ask that people continue to report what they feel are suspicious doorstep callers. If they are of particular concern at the time or their behaviour is inappropriate they can be reported directly to the police via 0845 458 0000 so that any free patrols can make a search of the area. Otherwise information can be forwarded to myself to pass around other coordinators - please try and forward as much information as possible with regards to approx age, appearance and any distinguishing factors and if they offer any details about who they are, working for etc.
I have provided details of some of the reports I have received below - mainly those with a description of callers. It seems that all callers have been knocking with the intention of selling items and do not appear to have any ulterior motives from the reports received:
1.) My parents, who live in St John's Ward near to South Cheshire College, have informed me that they had such a caller at their door last night. My father has provided the following description of the individual:
White male, aged 40 - 45, average height. Scruffy appearance with wavy, mid-length dark brown hair and possibly a missing/black tooth. He was wearing a dark blue anorak and carrying a long, black holdall bag. He flashed a yellow piece of paper at my father when he opened the door. He did not find out where the individual was from as told him 'no thank you' straight away. The male was mumbling to himself as he left my father's drive. The male only approached certain houses along the street, in general it appeared houses with the cars parked up the driveways.
2.) A coordinator from Willaston, Nantwich reported that three young males called at her door stating they were from probation a couple of weeks ago. Upon asking them a few questions they seemed perturbed and left her property.
3.) A report from Shavington mentions that an individual called about a week ago. He claimed to be an ex-offender and stated he was from Northampton. He had dark hair and a scar across his forehead.
On a positive note coordinators are generally reporting that no one is buying from these individuals. One coordinator reported that a pedlar left his driveway mumbling about how 'no one want to buy around here'. This is excellent news as this particular pedlar (and no doubt others) are having little success selling items in the borough. Much of this is down to your continued support as home watch coordinators and members in circulating information amongst your schemes (and subsequently on to friends and family). May I take this opportunity to thank you for this continued support.
Can I ask that people continue to report what they feel are suspicious doorstep callers. If they are of particular concern at the time or their behaviour is inappropriate they can be reported directly to the police via 0845 458 0000 so that any free patrols can make a search of the area. Otherwise information can be forwarded to myself to pass around other coordinators - please try and forward as much information as possible with regards to approx age, appearance and any distinguishing factors and if they offer any details about who they are, working for etc.
I have provided details of some of the reports I have received below - mainly those with a description of callers. It seems that all callers have been knocking with the intention of selling items and do not appear to have any ulterior motives from the reports received:
1.) My parents, who live in St John's Ward near to South Cheshire College, have informed me that they had such a caller at their door last night. My father has provided the following description of the individual:
White male, aged 40 - 45, average height. Scruffy appearance with wavy, mid-length dark brown hair and possibly a missing/black tooth. He was wearing a dark blue anorak and carrying a long, black holdall bag. He flashed a yellow piece of paper at my father when he opened the door. He did not find out where the individual was from as told him 'no thank you' straight away. The male was mumbling to himself as he left my father's drive. The male only approached certain houses along the street, in general it appeared houses with the cars parked up the driveways.
2.) A coordinator from Willaston, Nantwich reported that three young males called at her door stating they were from probation a couple of weeks ago. Upon asking them a few questions they seemed perturbed and left her property.
3.) A report from Shavington mentions that an individual called about a week ago. He claimed to be an ex-offender and stated he was from Northampton. He had dark hair and a scar across his forehead.
On a positive note coordinators are generally reporting that no one is buying from these individuals. One coordinator reported that a pedlar left his driveway mumbling about how 'no one want to buy around here'. This is excellent news as this particular pedlar (and no doubt others) are having little success selling items in the borough. Much of this is down to your continued support as home watch coordinators and members in circulating information amongst your schemes (and subsequently on to friends and family). May I take this opportunity to thank you for this continued support.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Ex Offender Seller
I have just received an email from a fellow Home Watch Coordinator who resides in St Mary's ward on the border or Crewe / Nantwich towns. He has made me aware that someone claiming to be an ex-offender called as his door yesterday and tried to sell him items. The person appears to have had some sort of ID to try and support his claim. When the individual was politely refused he left the property giving the homeowner abuse as he left.
You will be aware that the story of being an ex-offender trying to make good is not a new one in terms of trying to sell items at the door. Some may state they are linked to probation to further validate the story. I can confirm that the local probation service never enlist individuals to go door to door selling items. Over the years some people engaging in this type of doorstep sales have used this as a distraction burglary technique, whereas others may be trying to sell items at an over inflated price to make money for themselves by gaining the sympathy of the homeowner. Unfortunately, it is difficult to ascertain where on this scale someone at your door falls from the brief exchange you may have at your front door. As such the best advice in terms of all doorstep callers is:
1.) If someone knocks at your door and you are not expecting anyone have a look who it is via a spy hole / window.
2.) If you don't recognise the person it is your choice as to whether you even open the door to them. If you do not know them and don't feel comfortable opening the door do not feel obligated to do so even if they have seen that someone is in. If you do intend to open the door, please ensure you lock your rear door before doing so.
3.) If you have a door chain make sure you use it when opening the door - it provides an extra layer of security for you.
4.) If someone is trying to sell goods and services politely refuse and close the door.
5.) If someone claims to be of a more official capacity deal with them using the advice that has been forwarded in previous emails with regards to doorstep callers. If anyone needs this advice reiterating please let me know.
If anyone has anyone knock at their door who appears suspicious please do not hesitate to contact the police via 0845 458 0000 as soon as possible after they have called. Please provide whatever details you can about the caller to the police so that any free patrols can make a search of the area for individuals.
You will be aware that the story of being an ex-offender trying to make good is not a new one in terms of trying to sell items at the door. Some may state they are linked to probation to further validate the story. I can confirm that the local probation service never enlist individuals to go door to door selling items. Over the years some people engaging in this type of doorstep sales have used this as a distraction burglary technique, whereas others may be trying to sell items at an over inflated price to make money for themselves by gaining the sympathy of the homeowner. Unfortunately, it is difficult to ascertain where on this scale someone at your door falls from the brief exchange you may have at your front door. As such the best advice in terms of all doorstep callers is:
1.) If someone knocks at your door and you are not expecting anyone have a look who it is via a spy hole / window.
2.) If you don't recognise the person it is your choice as to whether you even open the door to them. If you do not know them and don't feel comfortable opening the door do not feel obligated to do so even if they have seen that someone is in. If you do intend to open the door, please ensure you lock your rear door before doing so.
3.) If you have a door chain make sure you use it when opening the door - it provides an extra layer of security for you.
4.) If someone is trying to sell goods and services politely refuse and close the door.
5.) If someone claims to be of a more official capacity deal with them using the advice that has been forwarded in previous emails with regards to doorstep callers. If anyone needs this advice reiterating please let me know.
If anyone has anyone knock at their door who appears suspicious please do not hesitate to contact the police via 0845 458 0000 as soon as possible after they have called. Please provide whatever details you can about the caller to the police so that any free patrols can make a search of the area for individuals.
Rogue Trader Operation
A major operation was undertaken this week where Cheshire Police worked with other local agencies to raise the awareness of and actively tackle reports of rogue traders in the area as a whole.
We are keen to remind members of the public that they should refrain from buying any goods and services from the door and to remember that you are under no obligation to allow anyone into your property. It is your front door and you can choose who you decide to allow into your private property. As always, if in any doubt, keep them out!
The below release about the operation suggests that people should contact their local Crime Reduction Advisor if they require literature or if community groups feel it would be beneficial for a talk to be arranged for their members. As Home Watch coordinators and members if anyone requires the above please feel free to contact myself directly, I actively work alongside your local Crime Reduction Advisor (Mark Cotton) in delivering information about this topic and can send any required information out directly to members
We are keen to remind members of the public that they should refrain from buying any goods and services from the door and to remember that you are under no obligation to allow anyone into your property. It is your front door and you can choose who you decide to allow into your private property. As always, if in any doubt, keep them out!
The below release about the operation suggests that people should contact their local Crime Reduction Advisor if they require literature or if community groups feel it would be beneficial for a talk to be arranged for their members. As Home Watch coordinators and members if anyone requires the above please feel free to contact myself directly, I actively work alongside your local Crime Reduction Advisor (Mark Cotton) in delivering information about this topic and can send any required information out directly to members
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