You know how I'm always stressing in my notes that people should ring the police if they see anything suspicious? Well -

CONGRATULATIONS to the staff and customers of the NORTHGATE INN!!

On Friday, 23rd March.they observed a group of males acting suspiciously in their car park. Officers from Caldicot (including myself) attended and, as a result, one male will shortly he attending court charged with various offences. Other offences are also being investigated as a result of items found.

Well done everybody! I have no doubt that the action prevented a further number of crimes being carried out.

GARAGE SECURITY

(a) "Roll over" doors are easy to "spring", so it is highly advisable to fit extra securing shoot bolts or put a ground fitting fixture to prevent the door being bent upwards.

(b) If there is a second access door to your garage make sure that it is well maintained and has extra security fitted such as hoop and staples with a good quality padlock.

(c) When fitting hoop and staples ensure that they are secured with round headed bolts that go right through the door thickness and secured inside using washers and double nuts or a "locktight" single nut. I've actually attended burglaries where the offenders have just unscrewed the hoop and staple.

(d) Make a list of items kept in your garage and any relevant serial numbers of items such as CHAINSAWS, BICYCLES, POWER WASHERS, and DRILLS.

(e) If the garage has windows, fit suitable locks and, if possible, a strong, good quality wire mesh. Also hang a net curtain as this makes it much more difficult for criminals to see what is inside.

(f) Check your garage regularly.

(g) Report any suspicious persons or vehicles to the police and make a note of the vehicle registration number and the appearance and clothing of the suspects. If the persons have left the area,it doesn't matter - you could be giving the police valuable intelligence of offenders' movements.


CURRENT CRIME PATTERNS

There have recently been a spate of two types of crime in the 'B' Division area, which is Monmouth, Chepstow, Caldicot and Pontypool.

(a) DECEPTION BURGLARIES
These occur when offenders impersonate water company officials, Council workers, gas company workers etc. and gain access to a property and then steal items such as money and jewellry.
The elderly are often targeted and the effects on the victim can be devastating. Remember to always check the identity of anyone claiming to be an official. If they are genuine, they won't mind.

(b) THEFTS FROM UNATTENDED VEHICLES
There are several groups of males currently going around and entering cars and stealing attractive items. Don't leave anything attractive in your vehicle.

Best wishes.

Ashley Turner.
Community Police Constable