ASHFIELD: Police warning to car owners

Ashfield motorists are being urged to do all they can to avoid their vehicle becoming an easy target for opportunist thieves, following a recent spate of vehicle crime in the area.

Nottinghamshire Police received 27 reports of auto crime offences within its Ashfield North Neighbourhood Policing area between Monday 22nd September and Monday 6th October.

20 vehicles were targeted in Sutton-in-Ashfield, with the Ashfields Estate (nine offences) particularly affected.

Officers are stepping up their patrols of the area to reassure local residents and encourage motorists to do all they can to ‘help us help you’ in the fight against vehicle crime.

Inspector Andrew Clarke from Nottinghamshire Police said: “Around four out of five of these recent offences have targeted vehicles which have been left insecure, which is incredibly frustrating for the victims as most vehicle crime can easily be prevented.

“The local policing team has increased its patrols and we will be working with motorists to highlight insecurities as we see them to encourage local people to do all they can to prevent their vehicle becoming an easy target for criminals.”

Nottinghamshire Police continues to encourage motorists to protect their vehicles by following the advice included within its dedicated vehicle crime prevention guide:

Where possible ensure that your vehicle is parked on your driveway or in your garage if you have one. Alternatively, ensure your vehicle is parked in a well lit area.

Have an alarm and immobiliser fitted if your vehicle doesn’t already have one. This is an effective way of deterring criminals.

Never leave valuables in your vehicle. Satellite navigation systems are commonly targeted, so don’t leave anything in your vehicle – such as holders or docking stations – which may suggest the unit has been left in the vehicle.

Catalytic converters can be marked using a specialist metal security marking chemical and secure labels to warn potential thieves that the catalytic converter carries an identification mark.

Think before you park, particularly when it is dark or if you are leaving your vehicle for a long time. If possible, park in a busy well-lit area. Avoid parking in secluded spots which could put both you and your car at risk.

If you are parking in a public car park, use one that has achieved the Park Mark Safer Parking Award, as part of the initiative to reduce crime and the fear of crime in parking facilities.

If you suspect someone of being involved in vehicle crime in your area, please contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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