Be a Scrooge to Christmas thieves, warn Chester Police

Dec 2 2008 Chester Chronicle

THIS Christmas, Chester Police in the Western Area are calling on all residents to play the part of Mr Scrooge – but only where burglars are concerned.

According to Detective Chief Inspector Brian Roberts, Western Area Crime Manager, too many people are giving criminals an easy ride during the festive season and should be taking on a more miserly approach.

DCI Roberts said: “We are now in December and for many people this signals the start of frantic action around the shops, snapping up all those presents that haven’t already been bought.

“It also means that houses across Western Area start to fill up with presents and present burglars with a veritable buffet of goodies to choose from.

“Each year we see incidents across the area in which Christmases have been ruined by criminals breaking into houses and helping themselves to presents from inside.

“This year I want to buck the trend and I want every resident to think carefully about their home security.

“Ensure any house alarms are turned on when appropriate and that, if installed, security lights are in full working order and positioned in the right places.

“Make sure you keep expensive gifts out of sight and, before wrapping them, use security marks and ultra-violet pens to identify them.

“If the worst does happen, marking gifts will it easier for officers to return them if they are recovered and could help to identify those responsible for the theft.”

He added: “After the big day thieves will be on the look out for some late presents of their own.

“Try not to leave any packaging on view outside. This can show criminals exactly what presents have been bought and acts as an open invitation to enter your house and help themselves.

“By taking some of this simple advice we can take steps to ensure everyone in the Western Area has a happy and safe Christmas.”

If you have any information about thefts in the area or spot anyone acting suspiciously please contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.