Shrewsbury police see “significant” increase in vehicle crime
People leaving their car doors and boots unlocked is one of the reasons for a “significant” increase in vehicle crime across the Shrewsbury area, police said today.
Police are concerned about a recent rise in thefts from vehicles in various parts of the borough. Over the past five weeks, more than 40 offences have been reported.
They are now urging residents to tighten up on security by making sure their parked vehicles are securely locked at all times, especially when left overnight on the roadside or on drives. Alarms should also be set.
Inspector Graham Preece said: “The offences are not confined to any one area of the town but tend to be spread over the whole area. Areas where there have been more than one incident, include Bicton Heath, Copthorne, Meole Brace and Underdale Road.
The majority of incidents have occurred overnight outside owners’ homes. A small number have involved cars at local beauty spots such as Haughmond Hill where property has been left on view.
Cash, credit cards, purses and wallets, work tools, laptops, clothing, mobile phones and CDs were among the items stolen.
Inspector Preece said that in some cases, vehicles had been left insecure with doors unlocked. In others, windows had been smashed or doors forced.
“In a significant number of recent incidents, no damage has been caused, indicating that victims are leaving their vehicles unlocked. It’s also clear that alarms are often not being set.”
He said many of the targeted vehicles were on driveways where owners were under the false impression they were safe from crime. “The message is that offenders will go on to drives to test the door to see if it’s locked. If not secure, it takes just seconds for them to steal anything on view or to search the glove compartment.
“Our Safer Neighbourhood Teams as well as Response officers are aware of the recent upsurge and are paying particular attention to the areas worst hit. But we need the public to be aware of what’s happening and to tighten up on basic security”.
Inspector Preece added: “There are two main things they can do – make sure doors are locked at all times even when the vehicle is left for just a minute or two, and secondly, to ensure nothing of value is left on view and better still, removed from the vehicle altogether.
“Do not leave items in parked vehicles overnight and that includes valuable work tools. If you have to leave anything of value inside, lock it out of sight in the boot.”
He also appealed for information whenever anyone is seen acting suspiciously near vehicles. “If you see something which raises your suspicions, do call the police immediately on the 101 number.”
Information can also be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers charity by calling 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org
