Cops keen to cut car crime

Date published: 24 May 2011

Police are issuing a warning to motorists following a spate of thefts from vehicles in Prestwich and Whitefield.

Since 1 May 2011, there have been 45 incidents across the areas, five more than during the same period in 2010. This equates to a 13 per cent increase, which officers are keen to drive down.

A number of the thefts have been due to vehicle insecurity, with offenders taking advantage of unlocked doors or open windows. In other instances, offenders have smashed vehicle windows with rocks to access property left on display.

To combat the problem, officers have increased both plain clothed and uniformed patrols in hotspot areas such as Ringley Chase, Old Hall Road, Whitefield Metro link car park, Elms Square car park, St. Georges Road, St. Mary's Road, Peveril Close and Hilton Lane.

Inspector Mark Kenny from the Prestwich & Whitefield Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "We are working to tackle the problem but need the public to help us by following a few simple crime prevention steps.

•Don't leave anything on view, even an old coat or plastic bag can be a tempting target for a thief
•Close windows and lock doors when you leave your car even if it it's only for a short time.
•When parking at home, always use your garage if you have one, if not try to park in a well-lit place
•Use car parks with good security and one with the approved Park Mark sign
•Don't keep valuables or important documents in the glove box, including the vehicle log book and leave the glove box open to show there's nothing inside
•Get an alarm fitted. Alarms can deter thieves not only from stealing your vehicle, but also from taking items from it. You can get more information about alarms, immobilisers and other security devices from www.securedbydesign.com/professionals/vehicle.aspx  

"If you have any information about car crime in your neighbourhood please let us know by calling your local team or Crimestoppers. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence. Don't let the criminal spoil your day."

To contact the Prestwich Neighbourhood Policing Team, telephone 0161 856 4538 or email Prestwich.npt@gmp.police.uk  

To contact the Whitefield Neighbourhood Policing Team, telephone 0161 856 8204 or email whitefield.npt@gmp.police.uk  

For non-emergency calls or to report a crime call police on 0161 872 5050 or 999 in an emergency where there is a threat to life or a crime in progress.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.