Crime Alerts and Messages issued by the Leicestershire Constabulary and Neighbourhood Watch

Report Alcohol and Drug Litter

A message from our colleagues at Harborough District Council Community Safety Team.

Does your neighbourhood suffer from empty beer cans and smashed bottles?

You are now able to report these alcohol litter finds, as well as drug paraphernalia using your Council's new web-site.

Harborough's Community Safety Team log any alcohol or drug litter finds sent in and this information is used by the Community Safety Partnership and the local Police to highlight hotspots for anti-social behaviour and put together solutions to combat the problems.

If you find alcohol or drugs litter please fill in the downloadable form and either email or post to: Sarah Pickering, Community Involvement Officer at HDC.
Email: s.pickering@harborough.gov.uk
Please do not handle any possible drugs litter, report it to the Council as soon as possible and it will be cleared away. Please do not include items that have been placed in waste bins.

To find the form log on to www.harborough.gov.uk/communitysafety
Go to Drugs and Alcohol and then related downloads. The form can then be saved for printing or emailing.

ATM Machines

Crime Prevention message from Harborough and Lutterworth Local Policing Unit.

This is a reminder that if you use an ATM machine whilst out and about, especially as the holiday period is drawing near, be aware of the following points.

Be cautious and security conscious at cash points and go into a bank to use one whenever possible.
Report to the police immediately if you see anyone suspicious around the machine or you see any added attachments to the machine.
If the card is held by the machine for no apparent reason, report this to the card issuer immediately.
Beware of using cash points during the hours of darkness and in isolated places.

By remembering these points this will help to reduce crime.

If you require any further crime prevention advice regarding the usage of cash machines please contact the Community Initiatives Co-ordinator at your local Police Station

Appeal following road traffic collision in Tilton on the Hill

Police officers are appealing for witnesses after road traffic collision in Tilton on the Hill.

The collision occurred at about 7pm on Tuesday May 26, 2009 on Oakham
Road at its junction with Launde Rd and involved three vehicles, a white Ford Transit Police Scenes of Crime van, a black Range Rover and a
Rover.

All three vehicles stopped at the scene but the driver of the Rover left before leaving any details.

The car is described as either silver or gold and had a 54 registration. The driver is described as white, in his sixties and had white hair.

Sergeant Steve Bunn, from Market Harborough local policing unit, said: "I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone who knows the identity of the driver to contact us. We would also ask for the driver of this vehicle to come forward.

"If you have any information about this incident, please get in touch
with us as any information could be essential to our enquiries."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Sergeant 2908 Steve Bunn at Market Harborough LPU on (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officers identification number 2908. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

Issued on 03/06/09 at 09:16
Crime reference number: OIS: 821:26:05:09

Appeal to trace stolen antiques from a village in Leicestershire

Police in Harborough are appealing for witnesses following the report of a burglary at a property in Noseley.

The incident happened between 6pm on Saturday May 9 and 1.20am on Sunday May 10, when the owner of the property discovered that a front window to the property had been forced open.

Upon further investigation the owner found that a number of items had
been taken from the property. Items taken include a large dark wood,
antique clock that has a carved frame and a silver and gold pattern on its face. A large silver urn and a sliver platter with the words
"Proaris Et Focis" inscribed onto it, were also taken.

It is believed that the suspects left the building through the same
window that they entered.

The owner of the property has released images of the clock and the
platter in the hope that they will be returned.

PC Claire Murray, the officer investigating the incident, said: "We are hoping that by releasing the images of the items stolen someone will recognise them and contact us.

"We would like anyone who was in the area of Noseley at the times
specified and can remember seeing anyone acting suspiciously to get in touch and help us with our investigation.

"If you are approached by anyone trying to sell you the items described we would like to ask you to call us and help us return the items to their owner."

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC 4445 Claire Murray on
Leicester (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message
for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's
identification number 4445. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

* Please note, some mobile 'phone service providers may charge for this call.

Issued on 20/05/09 at 09:15
Crime reference number: SM/01580/09-1

House burglary in Medbourne

Police are appealing for witnesses after a burglary at a home in
Medbourne.

The incident happened between 12.30am and 3am on Sunday May 17, 2009 when a property was burgled on the Old Green.

Thieves broke in through a downstairs window and stole an ornament of a large bird.

PC Claire Murray, from Market Harborough local policing unit, said: "We would appeal to anyone in the Old Green area to cast their minds back to Sunday and, if they remember anything suspicious, to please get in touch.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC 4445 Claire Murray on 0116 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 4445. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous on 0800 555 111

* Please note, some mobile 'phone service providers may charge for this call.

Issued on 19/05/09 at 16:08
Crime reference number: SM/01694/09-4

Burglary in Market Harborough

Officers from Market Harborough local policing unit are appealing for
information following a burglary.

The first incident happened at around 3.30am on Friday May 15, 2009 when a property on Great Bowden Road was broken into through a ground floor window.

A large quantity of gold jewellery was stolen including earrings,
bangles, rings and brooches.

PC Claire Murray, from Market Harborough local policing unit, said: "We are appealing for anyone who may have seen some suspicious activity that could be linked to this incident.

"Do you have any information about the burglary or you may have been
offered any jewellery at cut prices or know someone who is selling them off cheaply. If so, I would urge you to make contact."

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC 4445 Claire Murray on
0116 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officers identification number 4445. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

* Please note, some mobile phone service providers may charge for this call.

Issued on 19/05/09 at 16:02
Crime reference number: SM/01687/09-9

Tools stolen from car in Market Harborough

Police are appealing for witnesses after tools from a vehicle in Market Harborough were stolen.

The incident happened on Saturday May 2, after the victim had left his car in a car park on Coventry Road.

The victim had left his vehicle for around an hour and returned to find the lock to the back of the van had been tampered with and items from the van taken.

Items taken include 2 Bosch drills, a tool box, a pair of size 12 Puma football boots, a silver chain bracelet and a black Nike holdall with a white Nike tick on it, which contained a pair of socks and shin pads.

The Nike holdall has since been found and returned to the victim.

A white, Ford Transit van was seen near the vehicle at the time of the incident and was seen to drive out of the car park at some speed.

The man driving the vehicle is described as white, about 5'8" tall,
around 20-years-old and of a medium build. He had brown curly hair, was of a clean shaven appearance and was wearing light denim jeans, a round neck jumper with stripes and a pair of white trainers.

The passenger of the van is described as about 16-years-old, brown hair and of a slim build.

PCSO Tushar Joshi, an officer from the Market Harborough area, said:
"The victim has been left angry and upset that his work tools have been stolen and we would like to make an appeal for the publics help.

"We would particularly like to speak with the man who was driving the
Ford Transit that was seen in the area at the time of the incident and anyone else who was in the area at the time.

"We would also like people to stay vigilant and if you are approached by someone who tries to sell you any of the tools described, to contact us."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PCSO 6162 Tushar Joshi on Leicester (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's
identification number 6162. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

* Please note, some mobile 'phone service providers may charge for this call.

Issued on 12/05/09 at 14:42
Crime reference number: SM01483093

Crime Alert Message 30/04/09

This is a message for all residents living in Harborough District from Harborough Police.

During the last week we have seen a significant increase in thefts in the rural villages around the district. The criminals involved have specifically targeted garden items such as bay trees and box hedges in planters, stone ornaments and even bags of compost.

At this time of year there is a ready market for garden accessories and many people will be buying new and expensive items for their gardens without taking any significant security precautions.

Harborough police would offer the following advice:-

. Try to place high value items in a position where they are overlooked or can be easily observed.
. Consider the use of ground anchors or spikes and wire to secure high value plants, planters and ornaments.
. Take a look at your garden from a thief's point of view and take appropriate precautions.
. Always remember - before every crime there is a suspicious incident. Report any suspicious persons, vehicles or activity to the police immediately.
. For further crime prevention advice - contact your local police by phoning 0116 222 2222.

Theft from motor vehicle in Tur Langton

Police are appealing for witnesses after a car was broken into and
souvenir rugby shirts were stolen in Tur Langton.

The incident happened between 2.30am and 7.30am on Sunday April 26, when the car, a blue Ford Mondeo, was found with its doors and boot wide open.

On further inspection of the vehicle the owner found that damage had been made to both the driver and rear passenger doors and 40 rugby shirts in boxes, a TomTom satnav, 24 SMJ intelligence timers and 6 SMJ anti surge extension leads had been taken.

The shirts are described as being limited edition Martin Corry
testimonial shirts, in green, red and white. They all have three motifs on the left hand side of the chest, a tiger, the British Lions emblem and the English National Team emblem.

Henry Whatley, the community initiatives co-ordinator for the Harborough area, said: "The victim had been planning on giving the shirts to a charity in order to help raise money so this has not only caused damage to the car but also left the victim feeling angry and upset.

"These shirts are quite distinctive and so we would like anyone who has been approached by someone trying to sell one of the shirts or know someone who has recently acquired a number of shirts matching the above description to call us.

"We would also like to appeal to those who may have seen someone acting suspiciously in the area in between the times given to contact us. Can you remember seeing someone in the area with a number of boxes? Did you see the incident happen? If so then call us."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PCSO 6008 Laura Bolton on Leicester (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 6008. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

* Please note, some mobile 'phone service providers may charge for this call.

BEWARE

"The Police are currently investigating 2 incidents of Burglary that occurred between Friday 24th April and Sunday 26th April 2009 in the area of Oadby.

As part of the investigation it has been revealed that there was a series of cold calling incidents in the area involving two males purporting to be collecting money on behalf of blind children.

Police are advising occupiers to be on their guard when answering the door to "cold callers", making sure that their rear door is secure.

If you do receive a visit from any such persons or cold callers, and are dubious about the persons authenticity police would request that you take a note of their description plus vehicle if applicable and notify Leicestershire Police on 0116 2222222.

Rural Burglaries

This is a message to all our watch scheme members and key individuals in the S16 Harborough North Beat from Harborough and Lutterworth Police.

During the last few weeks we have seen a significant number of burglaries to homes in rural areas such as Gt. Glen, Houghton on the Hill, Billesdon and Kibworth as well as some of the smaller villages.

With the coming of the warmer weather many people will spending more time in their gardens and leaving their windows open during the day and at night time as well.

In order to reduce the opportunities for thieves Harborough police would urge all our members to be more vigilant regarding their home security. In particular we would encourage everyone to ensure that all windows and doors are securely locked when you go out for the day or just into the garden and particularly at night when you go to bed.
If you need any further crime prevention advice, please phone 0116 222 2222 or visit our website at www.leics.police.uk .

Please pass this message onto as many people as you can. Your help is appreciated.

Attempted burglary in Tugby

Officers in Harborough are appealing for witnesses following the report of an attempted burglary in Tugby.

The incident happened at around 10.50pm on Wednesday March 25, at an address on Main Street when the occupant, who was asleep upstairs, heard a tapping noise followed by the sound of a vehicle driving away.

The occupant later found his 42" plasma television had been moved and the back window had been removed from its frame. Nothing was taken from the property.

PC Claire Murray, the officer investigating the incident, said: "We are urging anyone who may have seen anything or was in the area at the time to contact us.

"We believe that the person or people responsible for this drove away in a vehicle near to the property and would like anyone who may have seen a suspicious looking vehicle in the area at the time to contact us."

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC 4445 Claire Murray, on 0116 222 2222 and follow the instructions to leave a message for an officer. When prompted key in the officer's identification number, 4445.
Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

*Please note, some mobile phone providers may charge for this call

Issued on 01/04/09 at 10:23
Crime reference number: SM/01009/09-1

Beat 16 Harborough North

Crime update week ending 29th March 2009

This is a warning message for all our recipients in the S16 Harborough North Beat area from Harborough Local Policing Unit.

During the last few weeks we have seen a significant upturn in the numbers of burglaries to dwellings in villages such as Kibworth and Medbourne. The majority of these break-ins have occurred during the daytime and in many cases the type or property taken was cash and jewellery.

Harborough Police would urge all our members to be extra vigilant and to report any suspicious persons, activity or vehicles that they see by phoning 0116 222 2222.

If you need any further crime prevention advice or information - please feel free to contact me on 01162 222 2222 using my ID number (7729) when prompted.

Please pass this information onto as many people living in your local area as possible.

House burgled in Tur Langton

Police are appealing for witnesses after a burglary at a house in Tur Langton.

The incident happened in Cranoe Road, near to the junction with Stonton Road, between 9.55am and 2.30pm on Wednesday March 18, 2009.

The victim returned home to find a ground window has been forced open and jewellery and cash had been taken.

PC Claire Murray, who is investigating the incident said: "We would appeal to anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the Cranoe Road area at the time of the incident to get in touch.

"If you have any information regarding this burglary or who the people who are responsible please let us know."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC 4445 Claire Murray on 0116 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 4445. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

* Please note, some mobile ‘phone service providers may charge for this call

Issued on 23/03/09 at 15:16
Crime reference number: SM/00921/09-2

Armed robbery at garage on Northampton Road

Police are appealing for witnesses following an armed robbery at a garage on Northampton Road in Market Harborough.

The incident happened at about 11.55pm on Friday March 13, 2009, when two men entered the kiosk, demanding money.

One of the men was seen carrying a silver object, believed to have been a handgun and the other was carrying a crowbar.

A quantity of cash was stolen from the till as well as a handbag from a member of staff. Nobody was injured.

The men are described as wearing balaclavas and dark clothing.

Following the incident they were seen to drive off in a light blue or silver Ford Focus.

Detective Sergeant Dan Granger, who is investigating the incident, said:
"We are keen to speak to the drivers and passengers of three vehicles
seen on the garage forecourt around the time of the robbery.

"I would urge the occupants of a light coloured Seat Ibiza, a dark coloured Peugeot and a blue Ford Mondeo taxi, who may have witnessed the incident and be able to provide vital information, to contact police.

"Did you see a light blue or possibly silver Ford Focus pulling onto the forecourt or driving in the area at the time?

"We're appealing for anyone who may have any information about this incident or remembers any suspicious activity in the area at the time to get in touch."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact DS 1577 Dan Granger on Leicester (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for an officer and when prompted key in his
identification number 1577. Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers free* and anonymously on 0800 555 111.

* Some mobile phone providers may charge for this

Issued on 16/03/09 at 13:00
Crime reference number: SM/00860/09-8

Quad bikes stolen from garage in West Langton

Police are appealing for witnesses after two quad bikes and a motorcross bike were stolen during a burglary in West Langton.

The burglary happened between 5.30pm on Sunday March 1 and 9.30am on Monday March 2, 2009, when a garage was broken into at a house on West Langton Road near to the junction with Melton Road and three vehicles were stolen.

The first is a Rapter, quad bike. It is a 2005 150cc model and is
mustard in colour.

The second is s a Z1 Traffic Jammer quad bike. It is an 80cc model and red in colour.

The third is a Kawasaki motorcross off-road trails bike. It is a 1995 25KX model and is green in colour.

PC Claire Murray, from Harborough local policing unit said: "Do you know someone who has recently acquired similar bikes or have you been approached by someone selling bikes matching these descriptions? If you know the current whereabouts of these bikes, we'd urge you to get in touch.

"I am also appealing to anyone who may have seen someone loading bikes onto a vehicle or anyone acting suspiciously in the area during these times to contact us.

Anyone with any information about the incident or the stolen property is asked to contact PC 4445 Claire Murray on (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 4445. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

*Some mobile phone networks may charge for this call.

Issued on 10/03/09 at 16:44
Crime reference number: SM/00705/09-2

Vehicles damaged in High Street area of Market Harborough

Police officers are appealing for witnesses following three incidents of criminal damage to motor vehicles in Market Harborough.

The incidents happened between 1pm on Saturday February 21, 2009 and 12.30pm on Sunday February 22, 2009 in the High Street area

Wing mirrors or windows had been damaged on three vehicles, a silver Volkswagen Beetle, a blue Renault Clio and a grey Vauxhall Cavalier.

Sergeant Steve Bunn, from Harborough local policing unit, said: "We're eager to trace the people responsible for these incidents as they have caused upset to the owners of the cars as well as the inconvenience and cost to repair the damage.

"Did you witness any of these incidents or have any information about who may be doing this? If so, please get in touch.

"We would also urge anyone who has also been a victim of this type of incident in the area and has not as yet reported it to the police, to get in touch as soon as possible."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Sergeant 2908 Steve Bunn on Leicester (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 2908. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

* Please note, some mobile 'phone service providers may charge for this call.

Issued on 09/03/09 at 14:20
Crime reference number:SM/00612/09-0, SM/00613/09-3

House burgled in Great Bowden area

Police are appealing for public help following a burglary at a house in Great Bowden.

The incident happened between midnight and 6.45am on Monday March 2, 2009 when thieves broke into the back of a house on Langton Road.

Stolen from the property was a Sony Viao laptop, a Nokia mobile phone, a Fuji digital camera, a Sanyo video recorder and a set of keys.

PC Claire Murray, who is investigating the incident said: "If you
noticed any activity on Langton Road which could be linked to this
incident, please let us know.

"If you saw items being removed from the property or noticed a vehicle nearby please get in touch as your information could be vital to the investigation.

"I would also like to hear from anyone who has been offered similar
items for sale in unusual circumstances over the last week."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC 4445 Claire Murray on Leicester (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 4445. Alternatively, you may contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

* Please note, some mobile 'phone service providers may charge for this call

Issued on 09/03/09 at 14:46
Crime reference number: SM/00703/09-6

Distraction burglary on Gunnsbrook Close

Officers are appealing for witnesses following a distraction burglary at a home of an elderly woman.

The incident happened between 8pm and 9pm on Saturday February 28, 2009 when the victim, in her eighties, heard a knock at her front door of her home on Gunnsbrook Close, Great Bowden.

She went to investigate and answered her door to a man claiming to be from the waterboard.

The victim let the man in and he proceeded to check the taps in the
kitchen. Whilst doing so, she noticed a second person in the hallway.

Both left the property and after they had gone, the victim discovered a search had been made and a small quantity of cash, two gold rings and a gold chain were stolen.

The first suspect is described as white, around 40-years-old, between 5'8" and 5'9" tall and of stocky build. He was wearing a light shirt and tie and a dark hat with flaps on the side.

The second suspect is described as white, in his early teens, between 5'6" - 5'7" tall and of slim build. He was wearing a coat, dark trousers and a grey woolly hat.

PC Claire Murray, who is investigating the incident, said: "This was
obviously very distressing for the victim and we would urge anyone who knows the people responsible to contact us.

"We would appeal to anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area at the time of the incident to get in touch. If you saw these men in the area, saw the route they took when they left the house or recognise the descriptions please get in contact with us.

"If anyone knows any information regarding this incident, please get in touch with us."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC 4445 Claire Murray on 0116 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 4445. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

* Please note, some mobile 'phone service providers may charge for this call.

Issued on 09/03/09 at 15:13
Crime reference number: SM/00685/09-7

Police urge van owners to remove electrical tools overnight

Officers in the South area are urging trades people not to leave any tools or equipment in their vans overnight after a recent spate of thefts.

In the last month, 16 vans have been broken into across South Leicestershire. Five incidents have occurred in the Hinckley area, four in Oadby and Wigston, four in Blaby and three in the Harborough area.

All the vehicles have been broken into either during the night or when they have been left unlocked at jobs. Many thousands of pounds worth of electrical equipment and tools have been stolen in these incidents.

The thieves have broken in by breaking the door locks or cutting through the rubber around the rear windows, to avoid making any noise.

Inspector Marc Simons, from the South Area Community Safety Bureau, said; "The best way to stop these offences is to empty your van every night and lock your equipment away. Although it can be inconvenient to empty your van at the end of the day it is not as inconvenient as having to replace the stolen items or lose work because you no longer have the
right tools.

"Other things you can do to reduce the risk is to always ensure your vehicle is locked when you leave it, even during the day while you are working. You could leave a note on the vehicle which says 'no tools are kept in this vehicle overnight,' and it's advisable to fit your vehicle with a good quality alarm and park it in a well lit place.

"Post coding your powers tools and equipment can also act as a deterrent and helps us reunite the tools with their rightful owner if they are recovered."

"We'd also ask anyone who is offered power tools for sale to contact us."

Two people aged 23 and 47 were arrested on February 10, 2009, on suspicion of theft from vans and they are currently on bail pending further enquiries.

Anyone with any information relating to these types of thefts is asked to call Leicestershire Constabulary on Leicester (0116) 222 2222.

Issued on 06/03/09 at 09:40

Burglary in Billesdon

Police are appealing for witnesses following a burglary at an address on Brook Lane in Billesdon.

The incident happened at sometime between 12noon and 4.15pm on Thursday February 19, 2009 when thieves broke into the property through the front door.

A gold bracelet, gold chain and an Omega watch were stolen.

PC Claire Murray, who is investigating the incident, said: "Think back, were you in the Brook Lane area last Thursday evening? Did you see or hear anything suspicious? Did you see any suspicious vehicles?

"If you did, or have any information about this incident, then please contact the police."

Anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area at the time is asked to contact PC 4445 Claire Murray on Leicester (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 4445. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

* Please note, some mobile phone service providers may charge for this call.

Issued on 26/02/09 at 11:30
Crime reference number: SM/00590/09-9

Cycling and Motor Scooters on Pavements

As a result of our monthly surveys of a percentage of our membership, we are aware that many of our members are concerned about Cycling on Pavements and the regulations regarding where Mobilty Scooters can be used.

We have now included two articles: 1 Cycling and the Law, 2. Mobilty Scooters - Where they can be used, on our website:
www.neighbourhoodwatchleicester.net

If either of these issues are of concern to you, please visit the
website and go to the "Information and Advice" section and click on "Crime Prevention Tips"

Burglaries at two properties in Houghton on the Hill

Police are appealing for witnesses after two burglaries at properties in Houghton on the Hill.

The first incident happened between 8.45am and 9.30pm on Monday February 9, at a house on St Catherine's Way when thieves entered a property and made a search. Nothing is believed to have been stolen.

The second incident happened at around 11.20am on Monday February 9, 2009 when the victim heard a noise outside his front door on Stretton Lane and went out to investigate.

Once outside, he saw two men kicking his front door. The men claimed that they were asking for directions and made off towards Main Street.

The first man is described as white and in his early twenties. He was wearing a pin striped suit and trainers. The other is described as white, around 14-years-old and wearing a turquoise top.

PC Claire Murray, who is investigating this incident, said: "We are
appealing to anyone was in these areas between the times of these
incidents and saw anything which may assist with our enquiries to come forward.

"If you have any information regarding these burglaries, can recall any suspicious behaviour or know the whereabouts of the stolen property, please get in touch."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC 4445 Claire Murray on 0116 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 4445. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

* Please note, some mobile 'phone service providers may charge for this call

Issued on 24/02/09 at 10:14
Crime reference number: SM/00496/09-0, SM/00473/09-3

Schoolgirl Murderer set for release

The Leicester Mercury reported on 18th February 2009 that
Leicestershire's convicted murderer Colin Pitchfork has been given a date (April 30th) to appeal for immediate release from prison.

Pitchfork was the first murderer convicted in this country from DNA evidence. He brutally murdered schoolgirls Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth in Narborough in 1983 and 1986 respectively.

Please let us know your views on info@neighbourhoodwatchleicester.net:

Should Colin Pitchfork be released from prison? Please answer YES, or NO, or DON'T KNOW, and add any comment that you wish to make.

We will forward the completed survey results to the Home Secetary, and add to our website www.neighbourhoodwatchleicester.net

Please let us have your replies by Friday 27th February 2009

Thank you

Operation launched to reduce acquisitive crime in South area

Police have this week launched an eight week campaign to reduce the risk of residents and businesses in South Leicestershire becoming victims of crime.

Operation Overtake is being run in conjunction with the four Community Safety Partnerships in the south area and will focus on serious acquisitive crime, which encompasses burglary, vehicle crime and robbery.

Local neighbourhood action teams will be carrying out a series of
enforcements on properties over the course of the Operation to arrest suspected criminals.

Outstanding suspects for crimes will be targeted and increased patrols of high visibility policing will be put in place to reassure the community, deter burglars and gather intelligence. Officers will also be gathering intelligence in relation to the handling and sale of stolen property in the area.

In addition to the police action that will be taking place, each local policing unit will be working closely with their Community Safety Partners to offer crime prevention advice to members of the community.

Chief Inspector Jim Holyoak from the South area said: "Our intelligence has shown over the years that we see an increase in acquisitve crime,such as burglary and vehicle crime, at this time of year and we have launched this operation to combat that trend.

"The aim of Operation Overtake is not just to prevent this seasonal rise but to work with our partners to look at long term solutions as well.
This is why it is increasingly important to offer and share crime
prevention advice between the different agencies we work along side.

"We need residents and businesses to help us though, by taking some simple precautions such as ensuring windows and doors are locked every time they leave their home, vehicle or business. We would also ask members of the public to report any suspicious activity in their area immediately. This gives us the best chance of arresting offenders."

Anyone with information about crimes should contact Leicestershire
Constabulary on 0116 222 2222 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Issued on 11/02/09 at 10:51

Message from City & County NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

(Leicester & Leicestershire)

We all carry our mobile phones with names & numbers stored in its
memory. If we were to be involved in an accident or were taken ill, the people attending us would have our mobile phone but wouldn't know who to call. Yes, there are hundreds of numbers stored but which one is the contact person in case of an emergency? Hence this 'ICE' (In Case of Emergency) Campaign.

The concept of 'ICE' is catching on quickly. It is a method of contact during emergency situations. As mobile phones are carried by the majority of the population, all you need to do is store the number of a contact person or persons who should be contacted during emergency under the name 'ICE' ( In Case Of Emergency). The idea was thought up by a paramedic who found that when he went to the scenes of accidents there were always mobile phones with patients but they didn't know which number to call.

He therefore thought that it would be a good idea if there was a
nationally recognised name for this purpose.

In an emergency situation, Emergency Service personnel and hospital
Staff would be able to quickly contact the right person by simply
dialling the number you have stored as 'ICE'.

Please forward this. It won't take too many 'forwards' before everybody will know about this. It really could save your life, or put a loved one's mind at rest.

For more than one contact name simply enter ICE1, ICE2 and ICE3 etc.

PLEASE PASS THIS AROUND AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE AS THIS CAN HELP IN AN EMERGENCY

Police officers make appointments with the public

For the first time in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland members of the public will be given appointments to see a police officer.

People who call the police about an incident that is not an emergency will be given a 'scheduled response' appointment at a time and place that best suits them.

Police officers working on the City, North and South areas will have the appointments placed in their diaries by Contact Management staff, who take the calls from the public. The officer will then visit the victim of crime at their home or they are invited into the station. An appointment will only be rearrange if the officer is called to a major or life threatening situation.

Chief Superintendent Jason Masters, who is the Force lead for the
development of scheduled response, said: "This marks a major change for the Force because, for the first time, officers are able to plan and schedule appointments at a time that meets the needs of the public. This means members of the public know exactly when their crime will be dealt with rather than being told that an officer will get to them when he or she can.

"From an officers' perspective, it enables them to plan their day
according to the appointments in the diary, which leaves more time to patrol their beat and be more visible to the public.

"This new process forms part of a wider plan to deliver a more
personalised policing service to the community. By adopting a more
planned way of deploying police officers, it will also enable us to free up more time for officers to tackle problems of local concern in the community.

"The scheduled response process has been adapted to suit the three
different areas that make up Leicestershire Constabulary's City, North and South. This is to cater for factors such as the differing
geographical make up and population size of those areas."

Issued on 09/02/09 at 08:29

Fatal road traffic collision in Shangton

Officers from Leicestershire Constabulary's road policing unit are
appealing for witnesses following a fatal road traffic collision in
Shangton.

The incident happened at around 8.45pm last night (Monday January 19th, on the B6047 Melton Road approximately 400 metres from its junction with Three Gates Road and involved one vehicle, a silver Peugeot 206.

The vehicle was travelling towards Rolleston when it left the road.

The driver of the vehicle, believed to be a woman in her twenties, died at the scene. She is yet to be formally identified.

Detective Constable Gary Duplock, who is investigating this incident, said: "We're keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident or who saw the vehicle before the collision to please get in touch."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact DC 501 Gary Duplock on Leicester (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for an officer and when prompted key in his identification number 0501.
Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers free* and anonymously on 0800 555 111*.

* Some mobile phone providers may charge for this call

Issued on 20/01/09 at 09:54
Crime reference number: OIS:749:19:01:09

Warning following a spate of distraction burglaries

Police are warning elderly residents to be vigilant after a spate of distraction burglaries across South Leicestershire.

Officers have received 11 reports of distraction burglaries over a two week period in Hinckley, Harborough, Blaby, Oadby and Wigston.

Most offenders have been claiming to be from a water or utilities agency in order to gain entry into the homes of elderly and vulnerable residents. Officers are looking into possible links between the incidents.

PC Steve Day, crime reduction officer from the South area, said: "We want to make sure elderly and vulnerable residents protect themselves against this type of crime. These criminals target our most vulnerable because they are trusting. Don't be trusting, be suspicious.

"Many of these criminals have falsely stated there is a build up off pressure in the pipes and they need to turn the water off. Be very suspicious of this and check the callers ID very carefully. Do not be afraid to close the door on them if you have any doubts."

South area police have this advice:

* Always answer the door with the chain lock on. Ask the visitor what they want and ask them to provide identification. Don't be afraid shut the door on them if you think for one second they are not genuine.
* If anybody comes to your door claiming to be from the water board or any other utility company be very suspicious. These companies do not visit homes unless a pre-arranged appointment has been made. Our advice is don't let them into your home, turn them away and contact the Police immediately by dialling 999.
* If they do provide identification take a number and shut the door on them while you make your checks. Any genuine caller will be happy for you to do this.

PC Day continued: "Distraction burglaries are particularly distressing and many victims are left very shaken by the incident. I would appeal to the elderly and their relatives to be very vigilant against this type of crime and not to keep large amounts of cash in their homes."

Anyone wanting more information can contact PC Steve Day at
Leicestershire Constabulary on 0116 222 2222 ext 5475.

Issued on 19/01/09 at 12:29

Body found Christmas day - public's help sought

Detectives investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 23-year-old migrant worker are appealing for the public's help.

The body of Mr Gediminas Kristukas was found by a dog walker in a field near Quenby Hall, Hungarton at 10am on Christmas Day.

A post mortem examination was carried out at the Leicester Royal
Infirmary. Toxicology and further forensic tests are ongoing to
establish the cause of death.

Mr Kristukas, who is originally from Lithuania, had been in Lincolnshire since around September 2008. He was lodging in Boston where he worked at a factory.

He was last seen on Christmas Eve at around 2 to 3pm when he told his landlady that he was going to the cash point at a nearby supermarket in Boston. His car, a blue Audi A6 with Lithuanian number plates DZB 898, is missing. It has distinctive split five-spoke alloy wheels.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Smith, who is leading the investigation, said: "At this time we are treating the death as suspicious.

"This young man's body was found in an extremely remote spot with no sign of any means of transport that got him there. He had only been in the UK a short time and as far as we know he had no connections with the Leicestershire area.

"We need to piece together Mr Kristukas' last known movements and I
would urge anyone who saw him after around 3pm Christmas Eve to get in touch with me as a matter of urgency.

"I also need to find Mr Kristuka's car and appeal to anyone who thinks they may have seen it or know its whereabouts to let us know."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Leicestershire
Constabulary on (0116) 222 2222 and quote incident number 286/25/12/08 or alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is free and anonymous.

AN EXCELLENT RESULT

This is a good news message to all our watch members from Harborough & Lutterworth police in conjunction with the Harborough District Neighbourhood Watch Association.

Distraction burglars recently attempted to gain access to the home of a vulnerable resident in the village of Hallaton. They told her that they were from the “Water Board” and asked if they could come in to turn on the taps. They said that they needed to do this to prevent flooding further down the road.

Unfortunately for these thieves, their intended victim had been a Neighbourhood Watch coordinator for over 20 years and she knew straight away that they were lying and that there is no such thing as the “Water Board”. She closed the door and immediately phoned the police on 999.

Rapid response officers arrived within a few minutes but the thieves had left the area. Whilst the incident didn’t result in any arrests, a crime was prevented. By being vigilant and calling the police straight away this lady prevented herself being targeted and gave a clear message to the thieves, that they won’t get lucky on our patch!

Harborough & Lutterworth police would remind all our elderly and vulnerable residents that there is no such thing as the “Water Board” and if anyone uses this excuse, please phone us immediately on 999. When an unexpected caller knocks on your door, trust your instincts, if you are at all suspicious, call us out on 999.