|
An operation to tackle a predicted seasonal rise in burglaries, robberies and vehicle crime in part of Leicester will continue throughout July. Operation Echo was launched by officers from Hinckley Road police station on Monday June 9. It has so far resulted in 31 arrests. Of those, ten have since been charged for offences including burglary, robbery, theft and going equipped. The remainder have been released on police bail pending further enquiries. Traditionally Hinckley Road local policing unit experiences an increase in acquisitive crimes over the summer months. As part of Operation Echo, officers have identified vulnerable locations for these crimes and are working to reduce them through a combination of high visibility and covert patrols, security improvements to identified areas and by raising awareness of crime prevention measures. The neighbourhoods being targeted include Westcotes, Western Park, Tudor Road and Abbey Park. Sergeant Adam Wardle, who is co-ordinating the operation, said: "This is a concerted effort over the summer months to reduce crimes that can impact greatly on members of our community. "I am pleased to report that 31 arrests have already been made in connection with this operation, resulting in ten people being charged. The key to its success is to ensure that officers are deployed to the relevant locations at times when intelligence leads us to believe they are most vulnerable. "Neighbourhood officers are also engaging with the community and offering crime prevention advice. Target hardening has also been carried out in conjunction with partner agencies, including the introduction of alley gates and home security improvements in vulnerable areas. "However, we do need the public's help if we are to reduce these crimes even further. Over 60 per cent of the burglaries reported in the four neighbourhoods during June involved entry being gained through insecure doors or windows. That equates to over 30 burglaries that could have easily been prevented. "Many acquisitive crimes are committed by opportunist thieves who see a chance and take it. I would urge all residents to review their home security and to always make sure any doors and windows are securely fastened whenever they leave their home. Motorists are advised not to leave any items on display in their vehicles and to always remove sat navs, the cradle and leads." For more information about crime prevention measures visit the relevant pages on the Force website http://www.leics.police.uk/news/ or call Leicestershire Constabulary on 0116 222 2222 and ask to speak to your local crime reduction officer. If you witness any suspicious activity or have any information about crimes in your area, call the police on 0116 222 2222. Alternatively call Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous, on 0800 555 111. |
