November 16, 2009
Help Police Get Grip On Christmas ‘Handlers’
BEDFORDSHIRE Police, who have seen a 10 per cent fall in burglaries this year, are calling on residents to help them in the battle against handlers of stolen property this Christmas.
As part of their countywide Safer Homes campaign, officers want householders to contact them if they suspect someone is selling stolen goods in the run up to the festive period.
Residents should be wary of individuals without identification trying to sell goods door to door, out of car boots, from garage blocks, pub car parks or other unconventional locations.
Items to look out for include second-hand and unboxed electrical items or jewellery that may have been stolen from domestic properties, or alcohol and new designer clothes taken from lorries and businesses.
Be alert to callers who take an interest in the homes of elderly neighbours and may be distraction burglars. Families can help by reminding older relatives of the importance of using spyholes, door chains and insisting on identification.
Temporary Detective Superintendent Dave Quarmby said: “We have already 
achieved a substantial reduction in burglary and we want to keep it that way. The public can help by thinking about the security of their homes and telling us about those they believe are involved in crime.
“In today’s tough financial climate everyone is looking for a bargain, but be aware if you buy stolen goods you are fuelling crimes like burglary, drug offences and even organised crime.”
‘Safer Homes’ was launched last month as the clocks went back, which is when offenders start taking advantage of the darker evenings and burglaries increase.
It involves a wide range of overt and covert police work and includes the use of sophisticated Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) equipment to make county road network a no-go area for villains. Safer Neighbourhood Teams are playing a crucial and highly visible role, by deploying mobile police stations to promote home security.
“Safer Homes” coincides with Operation Vigilance, an ongoing Government-backed initiative by Central Bedfordshire Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership to clampdown on burglary in Central Bedfordshire.
Anyone who suspects someone of selling stolen good can telephone Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or text 07786 200011. In an emergency, always dial 999.
