Alcester North Safer Neighbourhood Team Community Newsletter
June 2011
Henley in Arden - Claverdon - Wootton Wawen - Tanworth in Arden - Earlswood - Studley - Sambourne
Incident Overview
Below are the incidents recorded for the Alcester North Safer Neighbourhood Team for June 2011:
Incident Type June 2010 June 2011
Anti Social Behaviour 32 16 Burglary Dwelling 8 6 Burglary Other 16 26 Criminal Damage 22 12 Theft from Motor Vehicle 8 8 Theft of Motor Vehicle 3 6 Violence 16 9
Crime in Your Area
Burglary dwellings are comparable with last year and last month and remain low in comparison with other areas of the county, however we are keen to keep them as low as possible with high visibility patrols being conducted in all areas. Three dwellings have been broken into in the Wootton Wawen area, two on the Stratford Road with various items taken, including laptops, a DVD player and jewellery. A further dwelling was broken into in Wooton Wawen at The Lawns whereby a resident left the rear door insecure while in her garden; offenders have then entered the property and stolen her purse. In Langley a property was entered and the alarmed subdued with a cushion, offender/s stole a laptop from within. In Studley a dwelling was broken into in Kiln Close, once within offender/s stole a laptop and a motorbike from the adjoining garage. Burglary other incidents have increase significantly on last month and last year. A commercial unit was broken into on the Snitterfield Road in Bearley whereby the padlock was cut, shutters to the property were forced and telephone wires cut; approximately £40,000 worth of goods and takings were stolen. In Grange Road, Bearley a garage was forced but nothing was taken from within. Two public houses on Henley High Street were broken into with alcohol being taken and two ipods. St Johns Church, Henley was broken into and offender/s have stolen two candlesticks worth approximately £1000. In Ford Lane, Langley a barn was broken into and machinery taken from within. In Studley on St Chads Road a storage container was forced and a quantity of horse equipment was stolen. Three incidents have taken place in Hardwick Lane, Studley where an insecure garage was entered as well as outbuildings, items taken including mountain bikes & garden/farm machinery. Two incidents have been recorded in Clarks Green, Studley where a garage and outbuildings have been entered, again mountain bikes and garden equipment has being taken. A building was entered in Crooks Lane, Studley although it is thought the offender/s were disturbed and it is believed they were targeting computers within and there have been two incidents in Mappleborough Green on the Birmingham Road where entry has been forced to sheds and lawn mowers have been taken.
Criminal Damage is comparable with last month, but has reduced significantly when compared to last year. Two incidents have been recorded in Castle Road and St Nicholas Road, Henley where tyres were slashed one evening. In Bearley damage was caused to the water system supplying water to sheep in a field off Church Lane. In Langley Road, Claverdon the rear window of a vehicle was smashed. In Studley tyres were slashed in Allendale Crescent and Archer Close, while three vehicles were spayed with graffiti in Watts Road and Bromsgrove Road. The rear window to a vehicle was smashed in Castle Road, a showroom window was smashed on the Birmingham Road and fencing was damaged in Toms Town Lane.
Anti Social Behaviour is comparable with last month, but has significantly reduced when compared with last year. Four incidents have been recorded in Henley, including threatening behaviour following parking issues leading to car doors damaging vehicles, individuals refusing to pay their taxi fare, youths drinking and smashing bottles in Beaudesert Lane and a youth entering Henley High School after school hours cycling up and down the corridors having previously been asked to leave earlier in the day by teachers. In Claverdon youths had to be asked to leave private land in Church Road, which they did not have permission to use as a off-road race track. In Studley eight incidents were recorded including, rowdy parties in Albert Close and Crooks Lane; youths playing football in Westmead Avenue caused damage to garden fences, disputes in Eldorado Close and the Redditch Road led to rowdy behaviour and threats being made. Youths entered Studley leisure centre and when their behaviour was deemed unacceptable refused to leave when asked to by staff, youths had to be removed from a roof on the Alcester Road and youths were reported for knocking doors in the Allendale Close area. One incident was recorded in Sambourne regarding a dispute over a delivery that had been made.
Theft from motor vehicles is comparable with recent months and last year, although low in comparison with other areas we would still like to reduce it further and would reiterate the need for drivers to be vigilant and not leave items on view. In Salters Lane, Wootton Wawen a vehicle was broken into due to a sports bag being left on view. In St Michaels Road, Claverdon a vehicle was broken into and a sat nav taken which had been left on display, thieves then searched the rest of the car and stole clothes and jewellery. Two vehicles were broken into at the Ardencote Manor in Claverdon with laptops taken which were left on display. In Studley a vehicle was broken into on Castle Road and where approximately £1,300 worth of tools were taken.
Theft of vehicles has increase on last year and last month, although it is still much lower when compared to other areas of the county. Two incidents have occurred in Wootton Wawen, one at Wootton Rise where a vehicle was stolen without keys and the second on the Stratford Road, which was stolen with keys, but has since been recovered. In Claverdon an attempt was made to take a motorbike on the Warwick Road, however the bike would not start and was abandoned in nearby bushes. In Grange Road, Bearley a motorbike was stolen from a driveway. A vehicle was stolen on the Birmingham Road, Coughton and was later found burnt out on Toms Town Lane, Studley; and in Mappleborough Green a vehicle was taken with keys from a commercial property on the Birmingham Road.
Violence has reduced when compared to last year, but is comparable with recent months and lower than other areas of the county. Minor incidents have been recorded in Henley, Studley and Preston Bagot and have been dealt with appropriately by officers.
If you would like further crime prevention advice, including how to obtain a protective marking solution such as SMART WATER, please contact your local officer, PCSO Tristan Jelfs on 07795231857 or e-mail tristan.jelfs@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk (Henley in Arden, Claverdon, Wootton Wawen & Bearley areas); PCSO Garry Johnson or PCSO Laura Thomason on 07789653018 or e-mail garry.johnson@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk or laura.thomason@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk (Studley, Sambourne & Mappleborough Green areas).
Earlswood, Tanworth & Ullenhall by PCSO Dave Martin:
Crimes that have occurred in the area during the month of June are as follows; Tanworth in Arden, in Aspley Heath Lane on the 7th June an insecure car was entered and had the sat-nav removed from the glove box along with a quantity of cd's. In Bell Field on 6th June a garage and van parked on driveway were entered and a sizeable amount of petrol driven tooling removed. Victims dog barked around 3am, but nothing seen or heard. On the same night in Pig Trot Lane Danzey Green 2 adjoined garages were entered and again petrol driven equipment and power tooling were taken. At a nearby property @0040hrs persons were heard on a gravel path and made off when resident put a light on. Also in Danzey Green a quantity of items left in the front garden are believed to have been taken by a scrap metal collector, although the items had not been put out for collection. Please ensure items are secured away when not in use. In Earlswood we had a number of crimes reported that are believed to have occurred on the same night 14th June in Forshaw Heath Road. An insecure vehicle was entered on a residential driveway and had personal effects removed from the car. Two other properties on Forshaw Heath Road had their shed and garage broken into, the shed had also been entered previously in the week although on both occasions nothing was taken. However petrol driven garden equipment was removed from the garage. In Hockley Heath on the 27th a generator was removed from an outbuilding on a property currently undergoing some renovation works. In Ullenhall this month we had the following crimes reported, at some point between Sunday 19th and Tuesday 21st an integral garage was broken into on Church Rd, and a high value amount of petrol driven garden equipment and a petrol remote control car were taken. Overnight Wednesday 22nd outbuildings of a property along the A4189 Redditch Rd was entered and specialist tooling and power tools, along with petrol driven garden equipment were removed. Another property on the A4189 reported 2 thefts believed to have occurred on the same night that each of the two previous incidents were reported. On the first occasion 2 chainsaws and a concrete cutter were stolen, 2 days later a mini quad bike was removed from an outbuilding.
There has been a number of letters being delivered in the Tanworth area purporting to be from a representative from a Japanese Bank offering financial reward from a deceased relative. This letters are a scam and any letters such as this offering you opportunities to good to be true generally are a scam. Further information can be obtained from to. www.warwickshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards
I have received a number of registration plates from residents in the Earlswood/Tanworth area of vehicles acting suspiciously around the area this month, as a result of one of these a large amount of intelligence has been gathered in relation to offenders on our area who are particularly involved in vehicle crime. Other reported plates have also highlighted known offenders in the area acting suspiciously. Please report all vehicles acting suspiciously in your area, and where safely possible gather a registration plate and vehicle description and pass it on to myself, little pieces of information make a much bigger picture.
Crime prevention advice and free home burglary risk assessments are available by contacting PCSO David Martin 0792 3288641 or at david.martin@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk
PCSO Dave Martin
Information & Advice
Protect Yourself Against Summer Crime!
Summer is a time of warm days when windows, doors and garages are often left open, and tools and valuables may be left lying around outside. This means that burglaries and theft will increase if our homes and vehicles are not secure.
The most common cases of opportunist summer burglary involve offenders that:
« Enter an insecure front door while residents are in the back garden « Enter doors that are closed but unlocked at night while residents are asleep « Reach through windows to take valuable items « Valuable items are left of display (Sat Navs, Keys, Lap Tops etc)
Summer burglary prevention tips:
« If you are out in the back garden, ensure that your front door is secure. « Most burglars get in through a back door or window. Make it difficult for them by locking all side or back gates and adding trellis to the top of walls and fences. Fit lights that come on at night to cover the sides and back of your house. « Put your garden tools and games away into a secure garage or tools shed after using them, they could be used to break into your home, or your neighbours. Lock your garage and shed with proper security locks. If you have a ladder out, put it on its side and lock it to a secure fixture with a ‘close shackle' padlock of heavy-duty chain. « When you leave a room unattended, close the windows and doors - especially on the ground floor. Fit mortise locks or bolts to all outside doors, and locks to all downstairs or easily accessible windows « If you want to leave windows open while you sleep, fit window restrictors so they cannot be fully opened, or make sure they are not large enough to allow access to a burglar. « Keep all wallets, purses, credit cards, car keys and other valuables out of sight. « Consider fitting outside security lighting or a visible alarm to help deter burglars. Even using pea shingle or gravel on a driveway and spiky plants in garden beds can help. « Consider purchasing SmartWater to mark and protect your valuables - ask your local Safer Neighbourhood Team for further information. « Try not to leave valuable items, like your TV, hi-fi, video or dvd, where thieves can see them « Make sure you have up-to-date contents and buildings insurance
Remember car security too...
If you park your car out in the countryside, take your bag or wallet with you and don't leave other belongings on view in your car. Even an old coat left in sight could tempt someone to break in.
Peace of mind while you're away.....
Everyone needs a holiday some time. However much we like our homes, there is nothing like a change of scenery. But we all want to come home and find everything as we left in. Almost half of all burglaries happen when a dwelling is empty. Below are some tips to help you make your property more secure while you are away:
Before you go...
« Make your home look like someone is living in it. Don't close your curtains/blinds - in the daytime this shows the house is empty. Use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights on when it goes dark.. « Cancel any milk or newspaper deliveries « Avoid discussing holiday plans where strangers may hear details of your absence from home « Cut the lawn before you go and trim back any plants that burglars could hide behind « Uncollected mail is a sign that you are away. The Royal Mail's ‘Keepsafe' service will keep your mail for up to two months while you are away « Consider leaving important documents and valuable items with other family members or a bank. Or lock them in a safe. « Do not put your home address on your luggage when you are travelling to your holiday destination « If you normally leave valuable pedal cycles of similar items in your shed, consider putting them in the house. « Finally, make sure that you've locked all outside doors and windows and, if you have a burglar alarm, make sure you use it.
Help from your neighbours.....
It's a good idea to get help from your neighbours while your away as they can help your house look lived in and you can repay them the favour. You could ask them to: « Collect the post on a regular basis « Sweep up any fallen leaves and mow the lawn « Open and close curtains/blinds « Occasionally park their car on your drive « Act as a point of contact and act on your behalf in an emergency « Generally ‘keep an eye' on your property and raise the alarm if needed
If you would like more advice on crime prevention, please contact your local officer, PCSO Tristan Jelfs on 07795231857 or e-mail tristan.jelfs@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk (Henley in Arden, Claverdon, Wootton Wawen & Bearley areas); PCSO Garry Johnson or PCSO Laura Thomason on 07789653018 or e-mail garry.johnson@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk or laura.thomason@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk (Studley, Sambourne & Mappleborough Green areas). PCSO David Martin 0792 3288641or david.martin@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk (Earlswood, Tanworth, Ullenhall).
Please note it is an offence to let off fireworks after 11pm except on Bonfire Night when the deadline is midnight and New Year's Eve at 1am.
Alcester North Safer Neighbourhood Priorities
Current priorities as chosen by members of the public at the last Community Forum held on the 23rd March 2011:
« Anti Social Behaviour, Millennium Park/Pool Road, Studley - 12 x targeted high visibility patrols.
« Parking Studley School, Pool Road - Dangerous parking outside the school at drop off and collection times, 12 x targeted patrols to advise drivers and liaison with Stratford District Council regarding enforcement.
« Speeding in Wootton Wawen, Mayswood Road - 8 x targeted speed checks to be carried out with advice and/or enforcement where appropriate.
Feedback on the above priorities will be given at the next Community Forum (see below for details), feedback will also be given in the next newsletter together with details of the new priorities. For further information please visit www.safer-neighbourhoods.co.uk/an or www.stratford.gov.uk
Good News/Events
Warwickshire Police has re-launched Operation Crunch. During 2010 the daily burglary rate in Warwickshire was 5.5 a day. This was an extremely low rate and the result of very successful targeting of offenders and working with partners to reduce offending. We are currently experiencing, on average, seven burglaries a day across the county. Whilst statistically the chances of a home being burgled is still very low, seven burglaries a day is seven too many. This means seven households harmed and seven streets or locations put in fear of crime. We are determined to identify and target, along with partners, the current burglars active in Warwickshire. A relatively small number of criminals are causing a disproportionate amount of harm. We will protect our communities from them using every investigation, enforcement and prevention opportunity. This is the aim of Operation Crunch.
A drugs warrant was executed by members of the Alcester North Safer Neighbourhood Team at a property in Studley. One person arrested and charged to court for possession of a class B drug.
On the 06/06/2011, while officers were in the Henley and Tanworth areas conducting patrols as part of the Operation Crunch initiative they came across and recovered a Porsche Carrera convertible stolen from a burglary in Wootton Wawen. The vehicle was parked up in a cul de sac and it is though it was left to see if it was fitted with a tracking device. Whilst waiting for recovery officers conducted house to house enquiries and gained some valuable information regarding possible offenders and their vehicle, which was seen acting suspiciously in the area on the 6th June 2011. Officers patrolling the area again saw the suspicious vehicle on the 7th of June. A possible suspect has been identified though great work by officers and the community working together, enquiries are currently ongoing.
Claverdon NHW have worked closely with members of the Safer Neighbourhood Team, Claverdon Parish Council and County Councillor Richard Hobbs to help address the publics concerns regarding speeding though the village on the Warwick Road. Previous issues have been raised at the Community Forum and Safer Neighbourhood Officers have conducted speed checks in the village, delivering warnings and fixed penalty notices where appropriate. Claverdon NHW have now financed the instillation of the SpeedAware flashing signs for a six month period. The campaign will start on 12th July and end on the 26th July. It is hoped that his initiative well help educate drivers along this route and increase awareness with regards to the 30mph speed limit through the village.
A gentleman from Studley contacted us to report that he had identified a high value mountain bike for sale on the internet that belonged to him, but was taken from his property following a burglary recently. Following liaison with the gentleman it was found that the seller was from Sparkhill, Birmingham. Officers from Warwickshire Police liaised with colleagues at West Midlands Police, which resulted in a premise in the Sparkhill area being searched, the recovery of the stolen mountain bike and the arrest of two males on suspicion of burglary. Enquiries are currently ongoing.
Last month it was reported that a burglary had taken place at a property on Forshaw Heath Road, Earlswood. An arrest has been made in connection to this offence and investigations are continuing.
Local officers are working with Wootton Wawen Parish Council, Wootton Wawen Primary School and Wootton Wawen Parents Forum to address concerns regarding parking issues outside the school at dropping off and collection times.
Other news.....
Strategic Alliance Agreed Between Warwickshire Police & West Mercia Police
Both West Mercia and Warwickshire Police Authorities have accepted the professional recommendations of Warwickshire Chief Constable Keith Bristow and West Mercia Chief Constable-designate David Shaw to deliver all policing services across both force areas.
Below are some of the Key Points:
« Policing services will be delivered more efficiently and effectively, maximising the protection we can deliver to local communities.
« An alliance will enable both forces to meet the challenge of reducing policing budgets and provide greater operational and organisational resilience, addressing local community priorities and the most serious harms in both force areas.
« Forces retain their Chief Constables, Police Authorities, identities, budget, local accountability to communities and strong independent governance arrangements.
« Forces will continue to work with communities, partners and volunteers as they do now and will seek to further strengthen such relationships.
« All policing services will continue to be based upon a foundation of strong local policing arrangements.
« There will be an increase in the resources available through an alliance for patrol, response and protective services compared to if we continued to operate independently.
« Significant cost reductions can be achieved in functions such as Human Resources, Information Technology and Estates which, while vital to the delivery of policing, can be delivered once for both forces.
« Warwickshire and West Mercia already have a strong professional working relationship, similar communities and challenges and the same priorities - to reduce death, injury, loss and distress and increase public confidence by so doing.
« We shall have an even greater proportion of our workforce in operational roles and a larger shared workforce than if we maintained current individual force arrangements.
« Independent Police Authorities will continue to hold Chief Constables to account on behalf of the public for force performance.
« Authority members welcome feedback and questions from the public about all aspects of policing and will ensure that issues or suggestions are considered by the planning team as design work is taken forward.
Questions and Answers:
« What happens next?
A single change programme will be established for both forces, involving members of both police authorities. This programme will ensure that the maximum benefits possible are delivered through alliance working.
« When will all Chief Officers be appointed?
A process to establish the full Chief Officer team, i.e. Two Chief Constables, two Deputy Chief Constable, two Assistant Chief Constables and one Director of enabling services will be taken forward as quickly as possible. (Not possible to provide a date at this time).
« Why two Chief Constables and Deputies?
In the current political climate, it was not possible to progress alternative command arrangements. Forces will share three members of the command team, who will lead areas of service across both force areas. Substantial change the delivery of policing and the way it is governed is ongoing nationally at this time and this was the most practicable solution to enable an alliance to move forward now.
« How much will the alliance cost?
Any costs involved in making the alliance a reality will have to be met within existing policing budgets. However, work to date clearly indicates that we shall have more members of our workforce in operational roles in the future through an alliance and less support costs than if we continue to operate alone.
« How much will the alliance save?
Early scoping work indicates that an alliance will provide opportunities to deliver services more efficiently, allowing money to be saved and, potentially, reinvested into policing services that deliver the most protection from harm. It is not possible to place an accurate figure on reductions at this time as detailed planning and design has not been completed. We do believe that an alliance is the best way to address currently budgetary challenges faced by forces and authorities as well as address longer term policing needs.
« What do you need to reduce your budget by at this time?
Warwickshire needs to identify a further £9.5 million of budget reduction by March 2015, over and above the £13.4 million already identified.
West Mercia needs to reduce its budget by a further £26.2 million by March 2015.
« What's the timeline for change?
This is for a programme team, guided by Authorities and Chief Constables, to discuss and make recommendations. Some change can begin almost immediately, such as the appointment of a joint command team, while other changes, such as IT or changes to buildings, may take a number of years. Further information will be shared as soon as it is possible to do so.
« When will more detail be available?
Further information will be shared as soon as it is possible to do so.
« What will happen to stations?
Both forces have current change programmes and details of any changes to services are shared and discussed with communities and partners. There are many questions that both our workforce and communities will have and we shall keep everyone updated. The approval today asks both forces to go away and begin detailed design and planning work. We shall be speaking with communities and partners as part of this process.
« Will there be a central/single headquarters (given Warwickshire don't have one now)?
The use of individual buildings and locations for teams has not been considered in any detail at this time.
« What does this mean for local police officers on the streets?
Both forces remain committed to continuing to provide effective and efficient local policing arrangements, through a mixed workforce, that address policing priorities agreed with local communities.
« Will jobs be saved?
An alliance will provide the best possible number of officers and staff to deliver protection for both forces, more than would be the case if forces pursued their own change programmes independently. It is not possible to place a figure on numbers at this time.
« Will Warwickshire/West Mercia ‘lose out' if services shared?
The alliance will continue to address the most serious harms in both force areas. Both Warwickshire and West Mercia have areas where the risk of harm is high and low and resources will be deployed in accordance with need, with all communities retaining local policing teams. There will be greater resilience by patrol, response, protective service and resource teams working jointly across both force areas.
« Is it a takeover?
No. Both forces retain their own command, governance arrangements, budgets, assets and identities. This does not happen in a takeover.
« What's the difference between a takeover, merger or alliance?
A ‘takeover' or merger usually results in all the workforce and assets of two organisations being brought together under a single organisation. An alliance ensure that local communities still have an identifiable Chief Constable, accountable locally to a police authority, on which local politicians sit. The benefits of delivering services jointly is maximised, but both organisations retain their identities and senior leadership arrangements.
« Will Police Commissioners change/stop this alliance?
Both forces and authorities are carefully monitoring any changes to policing arrangements nationally that may impact upon future service design or delivery. At this time, we are confident that the recommendations approved meet the requirements of Government in terms of greater partnership working. We shall engage with Police Commissioners at the earliest possible opportunity. However, the alliance will progress as, professionally, Chief Constables believe it is the most effective set of policing arrangements available at this time to best protect people from harm.
Meetings/Events
The next Community Forum will be held 6th October, 7pm, Henley High School, Henley in Arden - If you have a specific concern then come along to the local surgery, where you will be able to speak to your local Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team, Warwickshire County Council or Stratford District Council Officer.
The next Henley Community Surgery will be held, 27th July, 11:30am, Henley Baptist Church Hall - The surgery gives you the opportunity to speak to members of the Parish Council & Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team about the issues that concern you, while giving you feedback regarding what is happening in the community.
The next Henley Police Surgery will be held 13th July & 3rd August, between 11am - 1pm, Henley Police Station - A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
The next Henley Neighbourhood Watch Meeting will be held 18th August, 7pm, Henley Fire Station
The next Claverdon Neighbourhood Watch Meeting will be held 27th September, 7:30pm, Dorothea Mitchell Hall
The next Claverdon Police Surgery will be held 27th September, between 7pm - 7:30 pm, Dorothea Mitchell Hall- A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
The next Studley Police Surgery will be held 20th July & 10th August, between 9:30am - 10am, Studley Village Hall - A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
The next Sambourne Police Surgery will be held 20th July & 10th August, between 12pm - 12:30pm, The Green, Sambourne - A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
The next Mappleborough Green Police Surgery will be held 20th July & 10th August, between 11:30am - 12pm, Mappleborough Green Village Hall - A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
Monthly Message
Warwickshire Police is dedicating staff to drive Operation Crunch forward across the county identifying and prosecuting those who burgle people's homes, supported by relevant patrol activity from staff in neighbourhoods and those providing protection both day and night.
The help and support of communities and partners working together with us is essential to provide the best protection possible.
You can helYou can help by passing information to the Alcester North Safer Neighbourhood Team or direct to the Operation CCrunch team on/at:
DI Kate Tomkinson - 024 7648 3176 or Mobile 07887 627265
DS Tony Power - 01926 684133 - South Warwickshire and Leamington
Dedicated Intelligence Line - 01926 415244 Warwickshire Police Control Room - 01926 415000
Contacting us:
We are often asked the best way to report an incident or to make contact with a Police Officer. Should a member of the public witness or be affected by a crime whereby there is a threat of injury, injury or damage or theft of property and the incident is ongoing and offenders are still at the scene, they should ring 999, classed as an emergency or an immediate response incident.
Should the incident have already occurred and is not ongoing, for example waking up and finding your car has been broken into, you should ring 01926 415000 and ask to report a crime or an incident. You will be put through to the force control room or the crime desk. Please ask for an incident number - you should be given one. If a crime has been committed against you, you will be given a crime reference number by the crime desk or by the officer who attends the incident. Such incidents are ‘managed' and you should be given an indication of when an officer can attend.
If you do have information regarding an incident that has already been reported, but for whatever reason do not wish to contact the police directly, then you can ring 0800 555 111 and give the information to the Crimestoppers. Crimestoppers will then pass the information to the Police without revealing any details of the caller. You may also receive a reward.
If you wish to speak with an officer about a non-urgent matter, please use the list of contacts below:
Alcester North Safer Neighbourhood Team Alcester Police Station Priory Road Alcester Warwickshire B49 5DZ
To contact the Safer Neighbourhood Team about a non urgent matter, please phone: 01789 444816 or E-Mail: alcesternorth.snt@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk
Alcester North Safer Neighbourhood Team - Community Newsletter
Henley in Arden - Claverdon - Wootton Wawen - Tanworth in Arden - Earlswood - Studley - Sambourne
Incident Overview
Below are the incidents recorded for the Alcester North Safer Neighbourhood Team for February 2011:
Crime in Your Area
The burglary rate is similar to this time last year, however their has been a reduction when compared to recent months and the area is still experiencing low levels in comparison to other areas. Earlswood has seen three crimes recorded for car key burglaries and residents are reminded to leave their keys in a safe place out of view, however it is not advisable to take them to bed with you in case an offender is persistent enough to enter your bedroom. It is advised to leave them in a normal place, but out of view. The Henley area has experienced the most burglary other incidents where sheds have been accessed with gardening equipment and machinery taken, residents are reminded to secure all shed and outbuildings when not in attendance and where possible protectively mark your equipment with a marking solution such as SMART WATER. Overall since April 1st burglary dwellings have reduced on the Alcester North area by -5.9% when compared to the same period last year. If you would like further crime prevention advice, please contact your local officer on 01789 44816 or E-Mail: alcesternorth.snt@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk
Criminal Damage has reduced slightly when compared to last year, the majority of incidents have occurred in the Studley area with damage to vehicles, fencing and widows. However Henley, Claverdon and Bearley have experienced isolated incidents concerning damage to vehicles. One of the offenders for an incident in Henley has since been identified and is being dealt with accordingly by local officers.
Anti Social Behaviour is comparable with this time last year, but has reduced when compare to recent months. The majority of incidents have been recorded in the Studley area, mainly rowdy youths, which in some cases appears to be alcohol related. Local officers are continuing to make use of the dispersal zone and alcohol restriction zone in tackling the problem.
Theft from Motor Vehicles has increased when compared to this time last year, but has reduced when compared to recent months. Incidents have been recorded in the Earlswood, Tanworth, Studley and Mapplebourgh Green areas. Residents are reminded to remove all items from display where possible when vehicles are unsupervised. Theft of Vehicles is comparable with last year; two vehicles have been taken this month from the Studley and Mapplborough Green areas. Overall since April 1st vehicle crime has reduced on the Alcester North area by -6.6% when compared to the same period last year.
Violence has increased when compared to this time last year, however it is comparable with recent months. Those recorded are of a minor nature and have been dealt with appropriately by officers.
Information & Advice
Mobile Phones & Driving!
Research demonstrates that reaction times for drivers using a handheld phone are 30 per cent worse than for driving under the influence of alcohol at the legal limit. Research shows that using a mobile phone while driving means you are four times more likely to crash.
What does the law say about mobile phones while driving? It's illegal to drive a vehicle or ride a motorbike while using a handheld mobile phone or similar device. It is also illegal to supervise a learner and use a handheld phone.
Hands-free phones are also a distraction, and you risk prosecution for not having proper control of a vehicle if the police see you driving poorly while using one.
Legal definitions
Ø A 'handheld device' is something that is or must be held at some point during the course of making or receiving a call or performing any other interactive communication function.
Ø A 'device similar to a mobile phone' includes one that can be used for sending or receiving spoken or written messages, sending or receiving still or moving images or providing Internet access.
What counts as 'driving'? Driving is using a motor vehicle on the road and can include when a vehicle is stopped at traffic lights or during a traffic hold-up. Therefore you should not use that time to make or receive a call. Park safely (but not on the motorway hard shoulder) and then use the phone. A road is legally defined as any road to which the public have access - this includes car parks.
What are the penalties? If you receive a roadside fixed penalty notice, you will get 3 points on your licence and a fine of £60. If a case goes to court, in addition to the points, you could face discretionary disqualification on top of a maximum fine of £1,000 (or £2,500 for drivers of buses/coaches and goods vehicles).
Why don't you just make it illegal to use all mobiles, handsfree and handheld, when driving? Using a handsfree phone or other equipment is not specifically prohibited because it is difficult for police to see it in use. But driving poorly because you are distracted by using a phone (or for any other reason) means the police can prosecute you for failing to have proper control of the vehicle. The same penalty applies as for handheld phones.
If there is an incident or a crash, the use of any phone could be justification for charges of careless or dangerous driving. The penalties on conviction for such offences include heavy fines, endorsement, disqualification and, in serious cases, imprisonment. Courts are taking a serious view in such cases.
How can a police officer prove that I was on the phone? If you drive poorly a police officer can stop you and seek a reason for the poor driving. If it goes to court, in some cases your phone records can be checked to determine whether you were using your phone.
Can I ever use a handheld phone while driving? There is an exception for calls to 999 or 112 in a genuine emergency where it would be unsafe or impractical to stop. Using two-way radio equipment when driving is not a specific offence. Remember that a conversation could still distract from the concentration needed to drive safely. If you do not have proper control, then the police can still take action.
What if a mobile phone in my car rings? Or if I phone someone who is driving? Let it ring and return the call when you are able to park in a safe place. It would be better to switch to voicemail before starting. If you phone someone who is driving, say you will phone later and hang up.
Do I have to switch off all the phones in my car? No, because passengers may want to use a phone. If you are driving on your own, we advise that if you do not switch your phone off, you should switch it to voicemail, message service or call diversion. Ring back when you are safely parked.
What if my employer tells me I have to use the phone? Employers should not ask their staff to make or receive calls on any mobile phone while driving. They could be liable for prosecution if they 'cause or permit' employees to use a mobile phone while driving. Employers are legally required to include driving at work risks in their health and safety policies
What about cyclists? It is not a specific offence to cycle and use a mobile phone, but cyclists could be prosecuted by the police for careless or dangerous cycling. Cyclists need to concentrate like all other road users. They should not do anything that would affect their concentration and put themselves and other road users in danger.
Please note it is an offence to let off fireworks after 11pm except on Bonfire Night when the deadline is midnight and New Year's Eve at 1am.
Alcester North Safer Neighbourhood Priorities
Current priorities as chosen by members of the public at the last Community Forum held on the 16th December 2010:
Ø Anti Social Behaviour, Studley Town Centre - 10 x targeted high visibility patrols.
Ø Parking outside One Stop/Co Op, Henley High Street - 12 x targeted patrols to give advice to drivers parking dangerously.
Ø Speeding in Wootton Wawen, A3400 - 8 x targeted speed checks to be carried out with advice and/or enforcement where appropriate.
Feedback on the above priorities will be given at the next Community Forum (see below for details), feedback will also be given in the next newsletter together with details of the new priorities. For further information please visit www.safer-neighbourhoods.co.uk/an or www.stratford.gov.uk
Good News/Events
A male youth has been identified and is being dealt with accordingly by local officers for causing criminal damage to two vehicles in Henley.
A member of the local Safer Neighbourhood Team has visited a Nursery and Primary School in Henley to talk to children about Road Safety and Stranger Danger.
A member of the local Safer Neighbourhood Team has visited Tanworth Primary School and Cubs to talk to children about working for the police as well as talking to the children about personal safety.
Meetings/Events
The next Community Forum will be held 23rd March, 7pm, Studley Village Hall - If you have a specific concern then come along to the local surgery, where you will be able to speak to your local Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team, Warwickshire County Council or Stratford District Council Officer.
The next Henley Community Surgery will be held, 30th March, 11:30am, Henley Baptist Church Hall - The surgery gives you the opportunity to speak to members of the Parish Council & Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team about the issues that concern you, while giving you feedback regarding what is happening in the community.
The next Henley Police Surgery will be held 20th April, between 11am - 1pm, Henley Police Station - A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
The next Henley Neighbourhood Watch Meeting will be held 21st April, 7pm, Henley Police Station
The next Claverdon Neighbourhood Watch Meeting will be held 22nd March, 7:30pm, Dorothea Mitchell Hall
The next Claverdon Police Surgery will be held 22nd March, between 7pm - 7:30 pm, Dorothea Mitchell Hall- A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
The next Tanworth/Earlswood Police Surgery will be held 3rd May, between 5:30pm - 7:30pm, Tanworth Church Room - A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
The next Tanworth/Earlswood Police Surgery will be held 6th April, between 6pm - 8pm, Earlswood Village Hall- A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
The next Studley Police Surgery will be held 16th March, between 9:30am - 10am, Studley Village Hall - A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
The next Sambourne Police Surgery will be held 16th March, between 12am - 12:30am, The Green, Sambourne - A drop in facility to discuss issues/problems within the community with your local policing team.
Monthly Message
Warwickshire Police aims to deliver a high standard of service to our communities despite the challenging times ahead!
Contacting us:
The Public Service Desk (PSD) is designed to put Police Officers back in the control room, thus enabling a better service delivery to members of the public wishing to speak to a Police Officer, on any matter, which does not necessarily need Police deployment. Persons wishing to speak to the Police about any issue that does not require a Police Officer to attend can do so via this desk. Contacting any of the Police Station telephone numbers will direct you to the switchboard where you can then simply ask for the Public Service Desk.
We are often asked the best way to report an incident or to make contact with a Police Officer. Should a member of the public witness or be affected by a crime whereby there is a threat of injury, injury or damage or theft of property and the incident is ongoing and offenders are still at the scene, they should ring 999, classed as an emergency or an immediate response incident.
Should the incident have already occurred and is not ongoing, for example waking up and finding your car has been broken into, you should ring 01926 415000 and ask to report a crime or an incident. You will be put through to the force control room or the crime desk. Please ask for an incident number - you should be given one. If a crime has been committed against you, you will be given a crime reference number by the crime desk or by the officer who attends the incident. Such incidents are ‘managed' and you should be given an indication of when an officer can attend.
If you do have information regarding an incident that has already been reported, but for whatever reason do not wish to contact the police directly, then you can ring 0800 555 111 and give the information to the Crimestoppers. Crimestoppers will then pass the information to the Police without revealing any details of the caller. You may also receive a reward.
If you wish to speak with an officer about a non-urgent matter, please use the list of contacts below:
