Home security survey

March 08, 2013 16:57
 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 8th March 2013

Dear Residents please see the below ward update.

 

Lavender Fields SNT are now offering free home security surveys where we identify how secure your property is and advice potential improvements, we now have trained crime preventions officers on the team to conduct these. We'd advise you to contact the team for one of these surveys. Burglars are opportunists and will target vulnerable properties, this initiative is designed to strengthen the defenses of your property and help deter from burglary. Surveys do not take long and can be done at your convenience.

Please contact the team for one of these surveys

Lavender fields SNT

January 23, 2013 11:11
 

 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 23 January 2013

Dear Residents please see the below ward update

 

Theft from Motor Vehicles

 

Over recent months there has been an increase in thefts from vehicles from all over the ward. For the majority of these offences access has been gained without forcing entry to the vehicles. Also vehicle registration number plates have been a target for these thieves. Please read the following crime prevention advice as the main way to stop your own vehicles being broken into is to not make it a target. The following advice will prevent your car from becoming a target.


- Don't leave anything on display. If items do have to be left in the vehicle, put them out of sight at the start of your journey.

- Portable 'sat-nav' systems are often held in a cradle attached to the windscreen or dashboard on full view, so take it out of the vehicle and place the cradle out of sight in the boot.

- Cradles alone indicate to offenders that vehicles have 'sat-nav' systems, so ensure that you remove all traces by wiping off the suction marks from the windscreen.

- Property mark the 'sat-nav' with your postcode and house name or number. Make a note of the make, model and serial number and register it free of charge on the National Property Register at www.immobilise.com

- Number plates should be secured with one-way security screws, to prevent them being removed and used in crime. These can be brought from a local Halfords store. 

- Get a music system that's removable or has a front that can be taken off.

- Driving documents and personal correspondence could help a thief to sell your vehicle or provide cover story if stopped by police - do not keep them in the vehicle.

- Some thieves break into houses to steal vehicle keys. Always keep the keys in a safe place. Dont leave them in the hallway or kitchen, as these are the obvious places a thief will look.

- Alloy wheels should be secured with locking wheel nuts, which have been tested to withstand attack and meet Category 4 Thatcham approval.

- Steering wheel locks, which have been tested to withstand attack and meet Category 3 Thatcham, should be applied every time you leave your vehicle.

- Try to always park in a well lit area on the road. This can always act as a deterrent for criminals as they can be easily identified and seen what they are doing.

We are aiming to reduce Theft from Motor Vehicle crime on the ward, but we cannot do this without your help. Please remain vigilant at all times and ensure that you remove all valuables from your car or that they are out of sight. If you follow this crime prevention advice it will ensure that you are doing all you can to prevent yourself becomign a victim of crime.  



Street Briefing



Street briefings are an opportunity for people to speak to their Safer Neighbourhoods team in their local area.


23 January 4-5pm Lowry Crescent

21 February 8-9pm Sheldrick Close



Ward Surgery

 

 All ward surgeries are held at Lavender Fields safer neighbour hoods base, Wilson Avenue CR4 3JL. Surgeries are an opportunity for people to speak to the team about any local concerns or issues. 

 

1 February 8-9pm 

12 February 2-3pm

 

 

 

Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Michael Baverstock




Telephone: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

Lavender fields update

November 23, 2012 11:10
 

 

 



 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 22 November 2012

Dear Residents please see the below ward update

With the Christmas period rapidly approaching we have some useful advice to bear in mind to keep safe and secure around this period.



Christmas Shopping

Tips for keeping safe whilst shopping

1.      Try to avoid taking large amounts of cash out. Preferably use a card or withdraw cash out in smaller amounts. Don’t make it obvious you have money on your person.

2.      Be mindful of your surroundings, when withdrawing cash and paying for items.

3.      Avoid carrying too much shopping, either make several trips to the shop, shop with someone else, or return to your car and deposit items in your boot, out of sight!

 

Christmas at home

A large selection of presents may look festive to most people, to a thief or burglar they are an open invitation.

1.      Avoid having presents on display. Try to organise your tree so it’s not visible from the window, or keep presents hidden away until Christmas Eve.

2.      If visiting family or friends during this period, ensure all windows and doors are locked at home. Also no valuables are left on display.

3.      If you’re leaving your address for a long period, ask neighbours or friends to remove post and turn lights on an off make the property look active. Cancel milk and any other regular delivers that will make it obvious you’re not at home.

 

Boxing Day

Here are some simple tips to keep your property and valuable secure after Christmas

1.      Register any electrical good and push bikes on www.immobilise.com along with any other valuables you may have.

2.      Dispose of packaging and boxes discreetly, either fold them down and put them in bin bags or take them directly to the dump.

 



Safer Merton Strategic Assessment Survey



You Still time to have your say on crime and anti social behaviour in Merton

 

The survey on community concerns in relation to crime, disorder, anti-social behaviour and drugs and alcohol has been extended until 30th November 2012.

 

Safer Merton, the partnership which includes the Council, Police, Fire Brigade, Probation and Health is calling on people who live, work and visit Merton to answer their annual survey about community safety in the borough. The results of the survey are combined with an examination of all the crimes that have happened in Merton in order to help Safer Merton set the partnership’s priorities for 2013/14.  

 

The survey can be completed online at http://www.merton.gov.uk/safermertonconsultation or paper copies are available from your local Safer Neighbourhood Teams and various locations across the borough.

 

Theft from Vehicles 

 

In recent weeks there has been an increase the theft from motor vehicles around the Lavender Fields area. Vans are mainly being targetting for the tools inside.

Please bear in mind the following crime prevention advice

1. Park in a well lit area

2. Take all valuables out of vehicle where possible, or leave no valuables in sight.

3. Always lock car doors and ensure windows are closed

 


Street Briefing



Street briefings are on opportunity for people to speak to their Safer Neighbourhoods team in their local area.

 

12 December 4-5pm London Road

23 January 4-5pm Lowry Crescent

21 February 8-9pm Sheldrick Close



Ward Surgery

 

 All ward surgeries are held at Lavender Fields safer neighbour hoods base, Wilson Avenue CR4 3JL. Surgeries are an opportunity for people to speak to the team about any local concerns or issues. 

 

30 November 4-5pm

20 December 8-9pm

4 January 2-3pm

19 January 8-9pm

1 February 8-9pm 

12 February 2-3pm

 

 

 

Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Michael Baverstock




Telephone: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL







 

 

Lavender Fields update

October 17, 2012 15:40
 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 17th October 2012

Lavender Fields

Dear residents please see the following update.

Police urge residents to ‘think like a burglar’ over the Autumn Nights

As the nights draw in, the Met commences Operation ‘Autumn Nights’, its seasonal awareness campaign to combat burglary, robbery and anti-social behaviour. With clocks due to go back an hour on Sunday 28 October and both Halloween and bonfire night approaching, residents become more vulnerable to burglars as the evenings get darker and burglars find it easy to identify unoccupied homes left in the dark.

So people of Merton Borough, here are the top ten tips for crime prevention from the Met! 

1. Mark or etch your property with your postcode, house or flat number or the first three letters of your house name.

2. Register items with a serial number at http://www.immobilise.com/

3. Do not leave your car keys, valuables or ID documents near a door, letterbox or window.

4. Always check who's at the door and don't open it if you feel anxious.

5. Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes.

6. Keep your valuables out of sight.

7. Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home.

8. Fit a mortice lock to your front door and other external doors. Consider installing a burglar alarm.

9. Always keep sheds and outbuildings locked.

10. Cancel milk or other deliveries if you will be away for days or weeks at a time.

Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss

Mobex: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

 

 

 

 

 

Lavender Fields SNT VW

October 02, 2012 15:39
 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 2 October 2012

Lavender Fields

Dear residents please see the following update.

Artifice Burglaries

An artifice burglary is where someone gains entry into the house under false pretences. For example, they may say they are there to read the gas meter or they are conducting maintenance in the area and need to check your property, or any other reason.  Once inside the property they might try and make an excuse to be left alone i.e. use toilet, or if there are two of them one might be asked to see something allowing the other one time to roam the house uninterrupted, to commit the burglary.

Never answer the door to someone you are unsure of, and you should always look who’s knocking before opening the door. If you have a chain use it before opening the door to make it difficult for the door to be forced once opened. Anyone requesting entry to the house for whatever reason should have an identification card which you should ask to see before allowing them entry. If they have a genuine reason for knocking on your door they will not be offended to be asked to provide it, if they do they may not be genuine.

You do not have to permit anyone entry into your household if you do not want to. If they are from a company ask for the companies details so you can call the company before allowing them entry into the premises, although please bare in mind these numbers may not be genuine. If for whatever reason you think they are suspicious or not genuine do not allow them entry into the house and call the police.

Unfortuntely these people can be very persuasive and they may, despite precautions, gain entry into the premises.  As a general rule always keep valuables out of sight, also never keep any keys near any exits to the house as it would be relatively easy for someone to slip the key into their pocket after distracting you briefly.

If you need Police assistance for an emergency please dial 999, however if it is just information you wish to report then please call 101, the non emergency reporting number.

If you have any concerns or information regarding artifice burglaries or know someone who you think may be vulnerable and want some advice please contact the Lavender Fields Safer Neighbourhoods team on 0208 721 2744

Arrests

Within this period, Lavender Fields Safer Neighbourhoods team have arrested a male for criminal damage. The male was remanded in custody following investigation from the team, where he was identified using CCTV we’d installed due to an ongoing problem. This male was sentenced at court and the court issued him a restraining order, in an attempt to prevent further offences.

 

WARD SURGERY

Ward surgeries are an opportunity for members of the public to address the team with any local concerns. All surgeries are held at the Safer Neighbourhoods base, 14-18 Wilson Avenue, CR4 3JL

 

10th October 2012 2pm-3pm

 

16th October 2012 8.30pm 9.30pm

 

 

 

           

STREET BRIEFING

 

7th October 2012 6pm - 7pm- Silbury Avenue  

 

8th November 2012 9pm - 10pm - Sheldrick Close




Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss

Mobex: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

 

Lavender Fields News Update

June 19, 2012 13:16
 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 19 June 2012

Dear Residents please see the below ward update.

 

 Burglaries

 

During this period we haven’t experienced a high number of burglaries but we would still like to remind you of some crime prevention advice to reduce the risk your property being burgled.

The burglaries on this ward recently have been due in part to easy access being permitted via open windows and doors in back gardens. Burglars by nature are opportunists, looking for the easiest target on offer. Such things as open doors and windows are as good as an invitation for burglars. Please ensure all potential entry points are closed and locked when you leave your property or when you go to sleep.

Furthermore to this consider getting a burglar alarm with a visible outside box, security lights and cctv or dummy cctv.

These simple changes could be the difference between you getting burgled and not, please take the time to lock your windows and doors.

 

For further advice please visit www.met.police.uk/crimeprevention/burglary.htm

 

 

Theft from Cars

 

There has been an increase in theft from vehicles from the Lavender Fields area.

Can we remind you to ensure all doors and windows are locked and remove all valuables from the vehicle and indications of items of value. For example, sat nav holders and the suction rings they leave on the windscreen are a clear sign that there is a sat nav in the vehicle, even if the sat nav has been removed these signs could tempt someone to damage your vehicle in an attempt to get these items.

 

Please be vigilant, try and park in well lit areas on main roads where possible. If you witness any one acting suspiciously call police on 101 or 999.

 

 

 

Street Briefing

Street briefings are an opportunity for people to speak to their Safer Neighbourhoods team in their local area.

 

Runnymede 1pm 2pm 20th June

Rose Avenue 5pm 6pm 7th July

Lavender Park 8pm 9pm 3rd April

 

 

 

Ward Surgery

 

Surgeries are an opportunity for people to speak to the team about any local concerns or issues. 

Wilson Avenue base

 

1st July 8pm 9pm

15th July 2pm 3pm

18th July 8pm 9pm

25th July 2pm 3pm

 

 

 

Lavender Fields Team:

 

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss


Telephone: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

Lavender Fields update

April 04, 2012 12:35
 

Crime alert / Appeal for witnesses

Distraction Burglaries

Dear Resident,

Police are investigating a distraction burglary that occurred in the Canterbury Road area of Morden (St Helier ward) on Thursday 29th March 2012 at 11 AM. We are appealing for witnesses to this offence.

The suspect is described as:-

Male, White in his late 20’s / early 30’s. He is of Medium build with Short brown Hair and ‘fluffy’ facial hair. He had an Eastern European accent. He was wearing a Dark shirt, dark trousers and dark cardigan. He was wearing leather sandals with a bandage around one of his ankles.

He gained access to the house pretending to be from the gas board.

If you have any information please contact DI Daniel O’Sullivan on 0208 649 4044

If you have been a victim of this type of crime and have not reported it to police - please contact Police on the 101 non-emergency number to report.

 

 

Crime prevention advice

Bogus callers are people who try to con their way into your home to steal, or trick you out of money. They might pretend to be an official from a gas or Electricity Company, or a salesperson. It may even just be someone with a hard luck

Story claiming to need to borrow a few pounds, or wanting to use your telephone in an emergency.

If you are not expecting a visitor: find out who is outside before you answer the door by using a spy-hole or looking through a window.

If you do not recognise the caller, put the security chain on before you open the door.

Ask to see identification and examine it carefully, or you can ask them to post proof of identity through your letter-box.

If you are still unsure, telephone the organisation they say they are from – get the number from a bill or your phone book rather than ringing the number they give you, which could be answered by an accomplice.

Alternatively, ask them to come back at another time when someone will be with you, or tell them to write to you to arrange an appointment.

Don't keep large quantities of cash at home; put it in the bank where it is safe.

Telephone a neighbour or friend nearby to come along and check out the caller before you open the door to them.

Ensure that if you do let somebody in to your home, that you close the door behind them – distraction burglars often work in teams, where one will distract you whilst others sneak in through the insecure door.

If somebody asks for your help – needs to make a telephone call, lost a ball in your garden, needs a drink or pen and paper for example, refer them to a younger neighbour or assist them through a closed door. Alternatively, call a friend or neighbour to come and assist.

Remember, you do not have to let any stranger into your home. If you are suspicious or the caller will not leave, dial 999 and ask for the police.

 

Not sure - Don’t open the door

If you require crime prevention advice - Please contact your local Safer Neighborhood team who are here to help you.

Lavender Fields news update

March 13, 2012 09:30
 

 

 

Lavender Fields news update

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 13th March 2012

 

 

Dear Residents please see the below ward update.

 

 

Cold callers

A company called Crime Prevention UK have been cold calling residents in the Merton Borough offering house alarms. Some of the companies sale tactics are to say they are ‘working with police’, or are ‘endorsed by police’, or are ‘working with the Government’ and want to visit on a certain day and time about a security system.

Metropolitan police are not working with this company. The company offers a free security system but then charge overly expensive installation or maintenance agreement. Do not agree to any visits from cold callers and do not hand over bank details. 

 

Please pass this information onto any one who is not signed up to community safe, especially more elderly residents who are usually targeted with cold calling.

 

If any one is interested in alarm system for home protection then please contact either National Security Inspectorate (NSI) (they have an owl logo) or Security System and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB).

 

If you have any concerns with any cold callers who are being overly force-full or insistent and are worried about this then call police on the 101 number to report.

 

Robbery  

 

Lavender Fields SNT have experienced a slight increase in the level of robberies on the ward, these offence have a tendency to occur during later hours. Please read the following crime prevention advice

 

§         When travelling by foot pay attention to your surrounding, look out for safe place such as shops

§         Try to avoid using poorly lit streets or pathways, stick to more populated roads.

§         Be wary when using your phone or other expensive electrical items such as iPod’s (mp3 players).

§         If you think you are being followed, cross the road, or go into a local shop. Then call police if you are concerned, either by the emergency number 999 or the non emergency number 101.

 

Warrants

 

 

The team has executed several search warrants this month on address’s within the ward to search for drugs under the misuse of drugs act and also assisted colleagues with a search warrant off ward.

 

A small quantity of cannabis was recovered from both addresses with one male being arrested and charged with possession of cannabis, another male being issued with an £80 fine and a female issued with a cannabis warning.

 

This was a positive result and we hope it has sent a clear message to these addresses.

 

If any one has any concerns that drugs are being used or sold from an address, please either contact the team on 0208 721 2744 or anonymously on crime stoppers 0800 555 111

 

 

Street Briefing

Street briefings are an opportunity for people to speak to their Safer Neighbourhoods team in their local area.

 

8pm - 9pm Friday 20th April 2012 Longfield Drive

3pm - 4pm Tuesday 29th May 2012 London Road

1pm - 2pm Wednesday 20th June 2012 Runnymede 

 

Ward Surgery

 

All ward surgeries are held at Lavender Fields Children Centre, Steers mead. Surgeries are an opportunity for people to speak to the team about any local concerns or issues.  

 

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 20th March 2012

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 10th April 2012

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 1st May 2012

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 12th June 2012

 

Lavender Fields Team:

 

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Elif Chambers

Telephone: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

 

Lavender Fields news update

February 03, 2012 11:18
 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 3rd February 2012

Dear Residents please see the below ward update.

 

Theft snatch

On Tuesday 31st February at around 1230hrs a On 31/01/12 a 64 year old female was walking from the Post Office Church Road Mitcham. She had just picked up her pension money when the bag she was carrying it in was snatched. The suspect is described as a man aged 20-22 with short black cropped hair, possibly of Turkish or Arabic appearance.

If anyone saw this incident or has information that may be of help with this ongoing investigation please can they call DS Foster or A/DS Hart of the Mitcham Robbery Team on 0208 649 3267.

Although such incidents are not particularly common it is always best to take precautions to help prevent crimes like this:

·         Always keep your bags and valuables near to you so you can keep an eye on them and make sure that no one else can access them.

·         If you are carrying a bag ensure that it is closed so nothing can be seen inside it or taken from it. Also try and make sure that any bag is securely on so it can't be "snatched" away from you.

When getting money out from cash machines or banks always it is important to make sure you are aware of your surroundings and who else is near to you and if you think you might be followed try and head into somewhere secure (banks, shops etc) and alert someone

Theft from Motor Vehicle

There has recently been an increase in thefts from cars on the ward. We ask that you pay extra attention to what you have on display in your car. Some simple advice would be to not leave any thing of value on display or inside the vehicle, including small change which to some people, would be worth smashing into your car to get. It would advisable to remove all items of value from your glove box and boot to store them inside. If possible leave the glove box open, to avoid creating a temptation. Furthermore ensure all suction rings made by sat nav holders are wiped clear, as this is a sure sign that will tempt a would be thief. For any further advice, or if you wish to share some information with the local team please call us on 0208 721 2744.

Street Briefing

Street briefings are an opportunity for people to speak to their Safer Neighbourhoods team in their local area.

 

3pm - 4pm Saturday 25th February 2012 Runnymede

4pm - 5pm Sunday 11th March 2012 Bond Road

8pm - 9pm Friday 20th April 2012 Longfield Drive

3pm - 4pm Tuesday 29th May 2012 London Road

1pm - 2pm Wednesday 20th June 2012 Runnymede 

 

Ward Surgery

 

All ward surgeries are held at Lavender Fields Children Centre, Steers mead. Surgeries are an opportunity for people to speak to the team about any local concerns or issues.  

 

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 7th February 2012

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 20th March 2012

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 10th April 2012

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 1st May 2012

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 12th June 2012

 

Lavender Fields Team:

 

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Elif Chambers

Telephone: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

 

Lavender Fields ward update

January 18, 2012 14:59
 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 18th January 2012

Dear Residents please see the below ward update.

Ward Panel Virtual Survey's

 

Dear Members,

 

We would like to invite you all to have your say on the teams Local Policing Priorities that affect you the Local Community of Lavender Fields.

By consulting with Community Safe members under a “Virtual Ward Panel Survey” we aim to capture the views of our diverse community in order to identify and tackle the issues that matter to you. The results of this process will be discussed at the dedicated Ward Panel meeting

 

A Ward Panel is the forum where representatives of your neighbourhood, your Local Safer Neighbourhoods Police team and Local Authority meet to agree local policing priorities three times a year.

Your contribution, via this survey, will help make decisions more relevant to your local area and the problems that affect your community.

There is a facility within this survey to add additional comments, enabling you to make the local policing team aware of any other community concerns you may have.

 

If you would rather not take part in this process please ignore the Survey upon receipt or email the team direct to be taken of the circulation list.

 

Thank you for your support of the team and local community.

 

Theft from Motor Vehicle

There has recently been an increase in thefts from cars on the ward. We ask that you pay extra attention to what you have on display in your car. Some simple advice would be to not leave any thing of value on display or inside the vehicle, including small change which to some people, would be worth smashing into your car to get. It would advisable to remove all items of value from your glove box and boot to store them inside. If possible leave the glove box open, to avoid creating a temptation. Furthermore ensure all suction rings made by sat nav holders are wiped clear, as this is a sure sign that will tempt a would be thief. For any further advice, or if you wish to share some information with the local team please call us on 0208 721 2744.

Street Briefing

Street briefings are an opportunity for people to speak to their Safer Neighbourhoods team in their local area.

 

3pm - 4pm Saturday 25th February 2012 Runnymede

4pm - 5pm Sunday 11th March 2012

 

Ward Surgery

 

All ward surgeries are held at Lavender Fields Children Centre, Steers mead. Surgeries are an opportunity for people to speak to the team about any local concerns or issues. 

 

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 7th February 2012

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 20th March 2012

 

Lavender Fields Team:

 

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Elif Chambers

Telephone: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

Lavender Fields update

December 14, 2011 15:34
 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 14 December 2011

Dear Residents please see the below ward update

Burglary Advice

Do you know your houses vulnerable points? Burglars do.

Many burglars access properties via the backdoor, using the garden as cover from sight. Initially it is advisable to ensure you have a high perimeter surrounding your garden, to ensure no one can gain access over the fence. We would advice installing trellis around your fences, this provides extra height and makes climbing more challenging, which makes the house looks less inviting, which is always the main goal in deterring a burglar.

House alarms with visible boxes outside also provide security and an extra deterrent, check online for a house alarm the suits your needs. Further to that, install proximity lights which can be purchased online or from DIY stores.  

However the easiest and cheapest way to protect your house is to always ensure that no doors or windows are left unlocked, even if you are in the address. It can take mere seconds for a burglar to enter your house through an unlocked door and grab what they can. In addition to this keep keys and other valuables away from windows.

Always bear in mind burglars prefer to gain access to properties easily and quickly. Make your house as difficult to enter as possible to increase the chances of a burglar avoiding your home. For any further advice please call the team on 0208 721 2744 or to report any offences call the non emergency reporting number 101. In all emergencies call police on 999.

 

Bogus callers

The team have received a number of calls from concerned residents regarding potential bogus callers, asking to view their properties loft and cavity installation. We have liaised with the council regarding these concerns and identified that there are genuine workers of the council are canvassing roads in the Lavender Fields area regarding loft installation.

However if you are unsure about someone asking to enter your address please bare the following advice in mind

1.      Never open your door to someone you do not know. Open the door using a security chain and if you do not have a chain get one installed.

2.      No one asking to enter your premises to check, water, gas etc will demand entry. If they are insistent we advise to not let them enter.

3.      Anyone claiming to be from a legitimate company should have a valid Identification card which they will be happy to provide. Always check ID.

4.      If you are happy that they are genuine keep with them within the property. Do not allow them into your house unsupervised.

5.      Request a number for the company they claim to be from, this will help verify their validity.

6.      Finally you do not have to let anyone access to your property. Ask them to call again when you have someone else you trust at the property.


Street Briefing

Street briefings are an opportunity for people to speak to their Safer Neighbourhoods team in their local area.

 

10am -11am Wednesday 21st December 2011 Church Road

4pm- 5pm Thursday 12th January 2011 Eveline Road

3pm - 4pm Saturday 25th February 2011 Runnymede

 

Ward Surgery

 

All ward surgeries are held at Lavender Fields Children Centre, Steers mead. Surgeries are an opportunity for people to speak to the team about any local concerns or issues. 

 

 

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 17th January 2011

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 7th February 2011

 

 

Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Elif Chambers




Telephone: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

 

Lavender Fields Ward Update

November 27, 2011 12:52
 

 

 

 

 

 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 27 November 2011

Dear Residents please see the below ward update

With the Christmas period rapidly approaching we have some useful advice to bear in mind to keep safe and secure around this period.

Christmas Shopping

Tips for keeping safe whilst shopping

1.      Try to avoid taking large amounts of cash out. Preferably use a card or withdraw cash out in smaller amounts. Don’t make it obvious you have money on your person.

2.      Be mindful of your surroundings, when withdrawing cash and paying for items.

3.      Avoid carrying too much shopping, either make several trips to the shop, shop with someone else, or return to your car and deposit items in your boot, out of sight!

 

Christmas at home

A large selection of presents may look festive to most people, to a thief or burglar they are an open invitation.

1.      Avoid having presents on display. Try to organise your tree so it’s not visible from the window, or keep presents hidden away until Christmas Eve.

2.      If visiting family or friends during this period, ensure all windows and doors are locked at home. Also no valuables are left on display.

3.      If you’re leaving your address for a long period, ask neighbours or friends to remove post and turn lights on an off make the property look active. Cancel milk and any other regular delivers that will make it obvious you’re not at home.

 

Boxing Day

Here are some simple tips to keep your property and valuable secure after Christmas

1.      Register any electrical good and push bikes on www.immobilise.com along with any other valuables you may have.

2.      Dispose of packaging and boxes discreetly, either fold them down and put them in bin bags or take them directly to the dump.

 


Street Briefing

Street briefings are on opportunity for people to speak to their Safer Neighbourhoods team in their local area.

 

2pm -3pm Sunday 27th November 2011 London Road

10am -11am Wednesday 21st December 2011 Church Road

4pm- 5pm Thursday 12th January 2011 Eveline Road

3pm - 4pm Saturday 25th February 2011 Runnymede

 

Ward Surgery

 

 All ward surgeries are held at Lavender Fields Children Centre, Steers mead. Surgeries are an opportunity for people to speak to the team about any local concerns or issues. 

 

 

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 6th December 2011

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 17th January 2011

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 7th February  2011

 

 

 

Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Elif Chambers



Telephone: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

 

Lavender fields update

October 29, 2011 19:06
 

 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 29 October 2011

Dear Residents please see the below ward update

Theft of lead

In recent weeks Lavender Fields ward has experienced an increase in the theft of lead from the roof of buildings in the local area.

 

Burglary is a ward priority which the team is focussing on and although burglaries on the ward are rare we wish to continue to prevent offences occurring whilst also identifying those responsible. We ask that you be extra vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to us in an emergency on 999 or any other information that could be useful to us on 101.

 

The team will be increasing patrols in the area, to detect and deter any possible offenders but also we advise you please to read the below crime prevention advice.

 

  • Ensure that all external lighting is in good working order and your premises are well lit at night in order to deter potential thieves

·           Where possible, link up with your local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme and enlist their support

·           Get to know the neighbours - they are probably the best people to keep an eye on your premises

·           Secure all gates, doors and other entrances when frequent access is not required

·           Mark individual items of property

·          Restrict vehicle access, remove ladders and make scaffolding secure

·           Consider anti-climb paint, CCTV, intruder alarms

·           Where possible, replace with less expensive materials to make sure there's no incentive for the thieves to re-visit (A change of materials may require consultation with English Heritage and planning permission in the case of historic buildings)

·           Make yourself known to your local Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) who will be able to assist you with any crime prevention advice you may require

 

If you would like further crime prevention advice please contact the team on 0208 721 2744 

 

Ward surgeries

 

Ward surgeries are for you as a local resident to come along and discuss your views on the crime and disorder that affects you.

Times



6pm - 7pm Tuesday 15th November 2011 Lavender Pavilion Steers Mead Mitcham

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 6th December 2011 Lavender Pavilion Steers Mead Mitcham

                                                

COMMUNITY BUS & STREET BRIEFING

Community Bus and Street Briefing events offer you the opportunity to have your property marked, get crime prevention advice and discuss your local concerns with the team.

 

Times



2pm -3pm Sunday 27th November 2011 London Road

10am -11am Wednesday 21st December 2011 Church Road

 

 

Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Elif Chambers


Mobex: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

 

Lavender fields news update

September 30, 2011 14:48
 

 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 30 September 2011

Dear Residents please see the below ward update

 

ARRESTS

During this period the team have had several positive arrests.

Two of the ward’s most prolific offenders have been arrested for numerous offences, including burglary, possession of articles with intent to cause criminal damage, possession of offensive weapons and public order offences. Both males have been charged and are currently on remand awaiting sentencing.

A further arrest of a female by the team who was arrested for a criminal damage to a car after the offence was reported to police. An £80 penalty notice of disorder (PND) fine was issued to her.

The team are currently dealing with an ongoing issue in which a male has been identified causing criminal damage on several occasions to an address on the ward; officers from the team have recently arrested the male for criminal damage after he was released from remand for the same offence. The team are monitoring this situation closely.     

 

ANPR

Officers from the team assisted with an automatic number plate reader (ANPR) operation along Streatham Road by Figges Marsh. These operations are set up to detect and deter motor vehicle offences as well as cross border criminals. The operation was very successful with a total of eight vehicles being seized for offences of driving without insurance. Also three males were arrested, one for driving whilst disqualified, one for fraud and one on suspicion of immigration offences. Operations like these are conducted regularly to stop criminal activity.

 

 

 

Halloween

While Halloween can undoubtedly be a great deal of fun, it can also be a particularly distressing time of year for some of the more vulnerable members of our communities - especially the elderly. With this in mind, the Metropolitan Police Service is urging trick or treaters to think carefully about which doors they knock on this Halloween. Better still, why not just stay at home and have a Halloween themed party with your friends and neighbours! If you do decide to go trick or treating, please respect the wishes of any household displaying a 'No Trick or Treat' poster. When trick or treating you should also stay as safe as possible by following the 'Halloween Code':

• Always go trick or treating with an adult

• Only go to houses where you or your friends know the residents

• Don't knock on doors where there is a 'No Trick or Treat' sign

• Stay in areas that are well lit with street lights - take a torch with you just in case

• Stay with your friends - don't split into smaller groups unless an adult goes with you

• Don't talk to strangers on the street

• Don't enter any house - stay on the doorstep

• Be careful not to frighten vulnerable people, especially the elderly

• Be visible

• Look carefully before crossing the road, even if you're part of a group

• Don't vandalise anything or throw things like eggs and flour. This can cause a great deal of damage and misery. What's more it can be classed as criminal damage, or even assault, and a night of 'fun' could end up with you in trouble with the police. For those who do not want to be disturbed this Halloween by "trick or treaters

 

Furthermore for those who wish to deter trick or treaters there is an attached poster which can be printed out and posted in your windows.  If any one has any concerns or worries around this time the team will be conducting regular late night patrols for the weeks surrounding Halloween.

 

Ward surgeries

 

Ward surgeries are for you as a local resident to come along and discuss your views on the crime and disorder that affects you.

Times



6pm - 7pm Tuesday 4th October 2011 Lavender Pavilion Steers Mead Mitcham

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 15th November 2011 Lavender Pavilion Steers Mead Mitcham

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 6th December 2011 Lavender Pavilion Steers Mead Mitcham

                                                

COMMUNITY BUS & STREET BRIEFING

Community Bus and Street Briefing events offer you the opportunity to have your property marked, get crime prevention advice and discuss your local concerns with the team.

 

Times



3pm -4pm Wednesday 19th October 2011 Lavender Avenue

2pm -3pm Sunday 27th November 2011 London Road

10am -11am Wednesday 21st December 2011 Church Road

 

 

Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Elif Chambers


Mobex: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

 

Rising temperatures and hot weather present criminals with additional opportunities. Taking a few simple precautions can reduce the chances of you becoming a victim of a summer crime. 


People are generally more relaxed when they are in their own homes and security can lapse, particularly with the onset of good weather. In summer burglary rates can increase as access to properties becomes easier via open or insecure windows. London can be a hot, stuffy place; naturally we like to ventilate our homes and/or business premises. Burglars will exploit any open window. 


Even if you are in the building a burglar will often strike while householders sleep upstairs, or when you are just in the back garden, or another part of the building. We encourage people to fit and most importantly, use good mortice locks on all doors and key operated locks on accessible windows (do not leave keys in the locks). 
"Accessible windows" are ones relatively easy to reach. The obvious ones are those at ground level, but those above a ground floor extension or porch, or next to a drainpipe can be equally as easy to reach. 


Traditional sash windows can be secured by fitting two pairs of sash stops to the upper frame. The lower pair locks the window shut, but can be removed to allow a 6-inch gap for ventilation; the upper pair prevents the window being opened further. Be mindful of a criminals’ ability to fish for nearby items via this gap though, the window is secure to actual entry perhaps, but not entirely secure. A room with a window secured in this fashion should not be left unoccupied and items of value should never be left in view of such a window, even if the room is occupied: a thief can strike in a matter of seconds if the item is close enough to the window.

 

 Ask neighbours to keep an eye on your property while you are away, be prepared to return the favour.When parking your motor vehicles never leave valuables, including sunglasses on display. Encourage visitors to do the same.  Even indications there may be something of worth in your car can give rise to an attempt – a jacket on the back seat or floor of the car, sucker marks on the window from a satellite navigation cradle etc

 

Whilst driving in slow traffic, remember handbags, phones etc on seats could be grabbed through an open window. The offender might be on a bicycle or moped with little chance of being caught. 


Cycle crime increases in summer simply because more people use their bikes. Unattended bicycles should always be locked to something solid. Secure the frame and wheels, two locks being better than one. Remember those expensive bike accessories as well take them with you. Visit www.bikeoff.org for further information on reducing cycle crime (as well as others – a more detailed list an be provided by your local Crime Prevention Officer).

 

Finally, remember to care for personal possessions when out walking. The Borough has several parks and open places to enjoy in warm weather, don't let a Robber spoil your day.

Dear all,

Safer Merton is your local Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership. The partners include a range of agencies such as the Police, Council, Fire Brigade, Health and Probation Services, working together to reduce problems in the borough related to crime, anti-social behaviour and drug and alcohol misuse.

By March 2012 Safer Merton will have completed its annual borough wide Strategic Assessment. This assessment examines all the crimes that have happened in Merton in order to help us set the Partnership’s priorities for 2012/13.

To help inform this decision making process we would really appreciate your views and for you to tell us what your concerns and priorities are. Below is a link to a form to enable you to provide us with your comments.

http://www.merton.gov.uk/safermertonconsultation

The consultation period will begin on the 19th August and the deadline for comments is the 23rd of September 2011. For more information, please contact Safer Merton at safer.merton@merton.gov.uk or alternatively please call us on 020 8 545 4146

 

 

Many thanks

 

Safer Merton

This message has been sent at the request of Chief Superintendent WOLFENDEN, the Police Borough Commander for Merton

Additional officers will be deployed on the streets tomorrow engaging with the local community and providing reassurance patrols. If any members of the local community have concerns, feedback, viewpoints and any intelligence that might have a bearing upon the forthcoming funeral arrangements then please can they contact their local Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Commander Mak Chishty, who has responsibility for the area of North London, has met with the parents and family of Mark Duggan and discussed the policing arrangements for the funeral on Friday 9 September 2011 in Tottenham.

In line with the family’s wishes, the policing in Tottenham will reflect the family’s desire for a local, peaceful and dignified funeral.

We have met with community and business representatives and listened to their concerns and to provide reassurance additional officers will be providing a very visible presence across London.

 

 

Lavender Fields News update

August 26, 2011 10:27
 

Safer Merton Strategic Assessment

Dear all,

Safer Merton is your local Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership. The partners include a range of agencies such as the Police, Council, Fire Brigade, Health and Probation Services, working together to reduce problems in the borough related to crime, anti-social behaviour and drug and alcohol misuse.

By March 2012 Safer Merton will have completed its annual borough wide Strategic Assessment. This assessment examines all the crimes that have happened in Merton in order to help us set the Partnership’s priorities for 2012/13.

To help inform this decision making process we would really appreciate your views and for you to tell us what your concerns and priorities are. Below is a link to a form to enable you to provide us with your comments.

http://www.merton.gov.uk/safermertonconsultation

The consultation period will begin on the 19th August and the deadline for comments is the 23rd of September 2011. For more information, please contact Safer Merton at safer.merton@merton.gov.uk or alternatively please call us on 020 8 545 4146

 

Many thanks

Safer Merton

Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Elif Chambers

Mobex: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

Lavender Fields News update

August 16, 2011 14:40
 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 16 August 2011

Dear Residents please see the below ward update

 

Burglary Crime Prevention

The Lavender Fields team continues to work towards the reduction of burglaries and attempted burglaries in your local area.

 

Burglary is a ward priority which the teams are focusing on and although burglaries on the ward are rare we wish to continue to prevent offences occurring whilst also identifying those responsible. We ask that you be extra vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to us in an emergency on 999 or any other information that could be useful to us on 0208 721 2744.

 

We can offer free crime prevention advice, if you would like one of the team to come round and analyse how secure your house is and offer appropriate advice, we would be happy to do so. We also have crime prevention booklets and property marking kits which we can deliver to your address by request.

 

In general we advice you lock all the windows and doors of your house fully when leaving it, keep keys and valuables away from letter boxes and windows to avoid them being fished out. If you feel any one calling at your door is suspicious ask to see their identification whilst keeping the door locked with the use of a chain to prevent them entering. If they do not produce identification or you are unhappy with the documents shown do not let them in and please call police. We would rather you called and it turned out to be nothing than you didn’t call and it turned out to be another crime.

 

If you are going away on holiday, we would suggest cancelling milk and any other deliveries. If you can, ask a relative, close friend or neighbour to house watch for you to help give the impression the house is still occupied. If you have a see through porch or front door, we suggest leaving a key with someone trusted so they can move any post or leaflets out of sight and help to keep the house looking occupied. If you would like any further advice please contact the team on the numbers provided above.   

 

We also advise setting up a neighbourhood watch. A coordinated neighbour hood watch is a great way of promoting communities which look after each other and also in identifying suspicious people in the area. If any one is interested in becoming a coordinator for a neighbourhood watch please contact the team and we can provide you with advice and assistance to get a watch put in place.

 

Theft from Motor Vehicle

There have been an increase in the thefts from cars; we ask that you pay extra attention to what you have on display in your car. Some simple advice would be to not leave any thing of value on display, including small change which to some people would be worth smashing into your car to get. It would advisable to remove all items from your glove box and store them inside or in your boot and leave the glove box open, to avoid creating a temptation. Furthermore ensure all suction rings made by sat nav holders are wiped clear, as this is a sure sign that will tempt a would be thief. For any further advice or if you wish to share some information with the local team please call us on 0208 721 2744.

Ward surgeries

 

Ward surgeries are for you as a local resident to come along and discuss your views on the crime and disorder that affects you.

Times


6pm - 7pm Tuesday 13th September 2011 Lavender Pavilion Steers Mead Mitcham

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 4th October 2011 Lavender Pavilion Steers Mead Mitcham

                                                

COMMUNITY BUS & STREET BRIEFING

Community Bus and Street Briefing events offer you the opportunity to have your property marked, get crime prevention advice and discuss your local concerns with the team.

 

Times


7pm - 8pm Thursday 25th August 2011 Bond Road

8pm - 9pm Saturday 24th September 2011 Brangywn Crescent

4pm -4pm Wednesday 19th October 2011 Lavender Avenue

Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai

Pc Neil Phillips
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Elif Chambers

Mobex: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

 

update

Borough Commander Update 15/08/2011 (8pm)

August 15, 2011 19:34
 

Borough Commander Update 15/08/2011 (8pm)

For some time now Merton borough has returned to normality and local businesses are trading as usual. The weekend has passed without any significant incident; however policing numbers within the borough will remain high.

Recent postings to the ‘latest news’ section of our internet site have concentrated on the local disorder we experienced last week together with updates as to the police response.

Although concentrating on these issues, which understandably have been a significant topic of discussion and debate, we continue to deliver a range of other policing activities, ensuring that we continue to remain focused on crime prevention, crime reduction and other enforcement activity in order to keep communities within the borough safe.

Although the organisations media ‘appeal focus’ has concentrated on those responsible for last weeks disorder and related offences, we hope that anyone with information about any crime (either on the borough or elsewhere) will also come forward and give us the often vital information that we need to progress the investigation. Any information please pass to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or Merton Police on 101 anytime of the day or night.

I also take this opportunity to remind Merton Borough residents that during the summer months we invariably experience an increase in residential burglaries on the borough where entry is gained through open windows.

Another crime type, which with the help of the public we can reduce, is theft from vehicles left unattended on the borough. We have noticed a rise in movable objects been stolen such as sat-navs and laptop computers which are left on display within vehicles on the street. Please consider what items may be attractive to an opportunist thief and make an effort to remove or conceal them from unattended vehicles.

Last night I patrolled within Morden and as with Wimbledon and Mitcham I was struck by the community spirit and the wide condemnation of those responsible for the disorder, violence and stealing which occurred last week.

We now have a notice board which is full of messages, letters and e-mails from our communities offering us their support and goodwill. On behalf of all the staff thank you so much, it has certainly helped in keeping our morale high. Messages from the children on the borough are especially touching!

In any emergency requiring immediate police attendance, always dial 999.

Dick Wolfenden
Borough Commander

merton@met.police.uk

Superintendent Pete Dobson, Merton Police, writes "I have just returned from a well attended Community meeting in Colliers Wood, the area in our borough most affected by Monday’s disorder. I was extremely pleased to receive so much support from the local community after explaining how the events unfolded locally.

There was also praise for the local partnership that came together in a united response to the incidents as well as thanks for the local volunteers that came out to help.

Joining local residents and families, many of our community leaders were also there, including the local MP Siobhain McDonagh, the leader of the council Stephen Alambritis , the Chief Executive Ged Curran and Director for Environment from Merton, Merton's  London Fire Brigade Borough Commander Jane Philpott, ward councillors, the Chamber of Commerce , faith leaders and many more.

A healthy exchange of views took place with an emphasis on how to get back to normal, and then how to build local community cohesion and public spiritedness. There were many suggestions and ideas for learning and improving services, willingness for the business community to have closer links with the police and local authority and this includes developing quicker lines of communications.

CommunitySafe (our free text messaging alert/advise/inform service) already has in excess of 24,000 email contacts amongst the residential community, and could be extended to include business and retailers. This will be taken forward.

The Mitcham Status Fair has also returned to normal by opening their doors for the full planned hours.

Police are still working hard to arrest offenders and much of this work involves search warrants and detective support from New Scotland Yard. Our local authority CCTV is being scrutinised and we will be publicising many more images of suspects in the coming days, weeks and even months. This enquiry will go on until we have we exhausted every possible lead.

I am now making plans for the police to return to near normal levels of policing. It is not a realistic option for my staff to continue working 12 hour shifts without any days off for the remainder of the summer, but I will be making sure we have sufficient resilience that we can quickly up our numbers at short notice if needed.

The borough remains calm and confidence is slowly gaining momentum - if you didn't know about Monday's disorder then you would think everything was quite normal except may be the extra police on visible patrols.

Lastly, can I just ask again for your continued support in terms of providing information and intelligence. This is so important to keep the high levels of police enforcement activity at its current levels.

Any information please pass to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or Merton Police on 101 anytime of the day or night.

In any emergency requiring immediate police attendance, always dial 999. "

Pete Dobson
Superintendent Operations

merton@met.police.uk

 

During the evening and into the night of Saturday 6th August 2011 public disorder and criminal damage to residential and business premises ensued within the London borough of Haringey. This has been widely reported in the media both at local, regional and national level.

On Sunday 7th August 2011 a second night of disorder resulted in further criminal damage to shops, residential buildings and vehicles being badly damaged in the London boroughs of Enfield, Waltham Forest and Lambeth.

The Metropolitan Police Service has dealt with several incidents of ‘copycat criminal activity’ across London which has resulted in over 100 arrests for criminal offences. The MPS is aware of the impact this is having on the business community and is making every effort to combat further criminal activity by increasing the levels of high visibility patrols across London.

Criminal activity has taken place across a number of areas. There is no intelligence of specific targeting of identified business premises.

The Operation Withern team is continuing their investigation to identify those people responsible for the violence, disorder and crime we have seen to ensure that they are brought to justice.

You may notice an increase in the number of police officers in your area and this should not be cause for alarm.
You may wish to take the following precautionary measures.
1. Where possible retail premises should be suitably staffed with security guards
2. Ensure staff report any suspicious activity to security and/or police
3. Consider regular checks of the building and surrounding area
4. Identify areas that are vulnerable to forced entry
5. Make sure all service doors are kept locked and secure when not in use
6. Ensure your CCTV system fully operational
7. In case of an emergency is there a record of the names of keyholders who can be contacted
8. Consider removing high value goods from display windows overnight
9. Consider keeping as little cash as possible on the premises
10. Ensure that your premises are secure and if fitted your alarm systems are fully operational
11. In the event of a non emergency, call the police on non emergency number 101
10. In the event of an emergency, call the emergency number 999
11. If you have any information you wish to provide to police anonymously you can contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Operation Withern is investigating the disorder and violence in parts of London over the weekend. An incident room has been set up. Anyone with information should call the major investigation team on 020 8345 4142.

The MPS has extra resources on duty across the capital. We are carefully monitoring any intelligence and ensuring we have our resources in the right places to support the ongoing policing plan. We will continue to respond to the needs of London’s communities and deal with any incidents of criminality.

Lavender Fields News update

July 29, 2011 12:46
 

Lavender Fields
Safer Neighbourhoods Team
0208 721 2744
LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Newsletter 29th July 2011

Mobile Phones

Over recent weeks it has been identified that not many people know their Mobile phones IMEI number. This number is unique to the phone as is very helpful when identifying stolen phones. We ask you all to take note of your IMEI number and log it somewhere safe away from the phone so that, if unfortunately your phone is taken you will able to provide Police with the number and increase the chances of it being relocated.

To get your IMEI number simply type *#06# into the phone and the number will appear, thank you.

Bikes Theft’s and Shed Burglaries

The Lavender Fields Ward is currently experiencing an increase in the number of shed burglaries where push bike are being targeted.

We are regularly patrolling the areas where offences are occurring but ask for your help by following the below crime prevention tips. 

§         We advice that all bikes are kept indoors where possible, however if they are kept in a shed then we strongly advise using several heavy duty locks, which you can get from a locksmith, who will also be able to advise use appropriately on which locks to buy.

§         It is always best to never keep any valuables on show, therefore we advise you block access to your shed if you have a window, and also attach wire mesh or a similar substitute to prevent entry being gained via the window.

§         As a further preventative measure, lock bikes up within the shed either to a wall bracket or to something improbable to move.

§         Never keep tools in a shed that can be used to cut locks, i.e. bolt cutters, as this can potentially aid any would be burglars.

§         Furthermore as a secondary defence, please register your bicycles frame number (found under the bike) on http://www.immobilise.com, and also mark your bicycle with a free property kit that we provide at the station.

Please call 999 if a crime is being committed and in emergency situations. If the crime has already occurred please call 101 to report.

If you have any information regarding these crimes or any concerns please do not hesitate to contact the team on, 0208 721 2744 or by email LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk

Warrants

The Lavender Fields Team has conducted four warrants on the ward during this period, which has resulted in four people being arrested and charged for possession of cannabis, four push bikes being recovered with two these having identified as being stolen and returned to their owners. The investigations for these offences are still currently ongoing.  

Ward surgeries

 

Ward surgeries are for you as a local resident to come along and discuss your views on the crime and disorder that affects you.

Times


1pm - 2pm Sunday 14th August 2011 Lavender Police Office Wilson Avenue

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 13th September 2011 Lavender Pavilion Steers Mead Mitcham

6pm - 7pm Tuesday 4th October 2011 Lavender Pavilion Steers Mead Mitcham

           

COMMUNITY BUS & STREET BRIEFING

Community Bus and Street Briefing events offer you the opportunity to have your property marked, get crime prevention advice and discuss your local concerns with the team.

 

Times

7pm - 8pm Thursday 25th August 2011 Bond Road

8pm - 9pm Saturday 24th September 2011 Brangywn Crescent

4pm -4pm Wednesday 19th October 2011 Lavender Avenue

Lavender Fields Team:

Sgt Andy Ball
Pc Adi Lai
Pcso Matt Moss
Pcso Elif Chambers
Pcso Sara Vandepeer

Mobex: 020 8721 2744
Fax: 020 8649 3238
E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk,
Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney,
Safer Neighbourhoods Base,
14-18 Wilson Avenue,
Mitcham,
CR4 3JL

July 2011 DRIVE OUT VEHICLE CRIME In Merton theft from vehicles is a bigger problem than theft of vehicles, and often these crimes are opportunistic, and occur because owners have left something on display when they park their car, or worse have left it unlocked while they pop into a shop or in and out of their own home. If you own a works van or are a tradesman with a van we would urge you not to leave your tools in your vehicles overnight, even outside your home as there have been a number of vans broken into overnight with tools being stolen. So far operation Drive Out Vehicle Crime has seen some excellent results with reductions in theft from motor vehicle. We would like to attribute this success down to you as it is you that have heeded our advice and taken valuables from your car etc. However we must not be complacent and there are still reports of cars being broken into with property left on display. The vulnerable vehicle scheme, involves your local Police making a note of cars left with goods on show, and then the owners receive a letter telling them that their car was seen in a vulnerable state, and giving advice and information on car security. A notice will be attached to your windscreen to act as a reminder not to leave valuables on display. Cars are more than just a means of getting from A to B. They often act as wardrobes, offices, telephone boxes, concert halls and have many other functions depending on what we keep in them. Often the value of all the possessions kept in the vehicle can be as much as the value of the car itself. Laptop computers, cameras, tool kits, sat navs are all fairly expensive items and they are often left on display in cars. A parked car is an invitation to any sneak thief, load it with goodies on display and it will be an offer they can’t refuse! Don’t leave property on view • If possible take all valuables with you, • If you have to leave valuables in your car then lock them in the boot where they can’t be seen. • Lock all doors and windows • Check boot lids, hatch backs and sunroofs • Lock the glove compartment if you can For any further information please contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team via the main Met Police website by telephone or by e-mail. If you wish to become a member of Community safe and sign up to free crime alerts and news of what your local safer Neighbourhood Team is up to please contact them direct or join via www.communitysafe.gov.uk.

Lavender Fields news update

July 02, 2011 12:39
 
Lavender Fields Safer Neighbourhoods Team 0208 721 2744 LavenderFields.snt@met.police.uk Newsletter 2nd July 2011 Lavender Fields Dear residents please see the following update. Lavender Fields ward has experienced an increase in shed and garage burglaries with push bikes being taken. We would like to highlight this crime to you and try to ensure you do not become a victim.  We advice that all bikes are kept indoors where possible, however if they are kept in a shed then we strongly advise using several heavy duty locks, which you can get from a locksmith, who will also be able to advise on which locks to buy.  Never keep any valuables on show. We advise you block viewing access to your shed and also attach wire mesh or a similar substitute to prevent entry being gained via the window.  As a further preventative measure, lock bikes up within the shed either to a wall bracket or to something improbable to move.  Never keep tools in a shed that can be used to cut locks, i.e. bolt cutters, as this can potentially aid any would be burglars.  Furthermore as a secondary defence, please register your bicycles frame number (found under the bike) on http://www.immobilise.com, and also mark your bicycle with a free property kit that we provide at the station. If you would like any further advice regarding crime prevention please consult the met website http://www.met.police.uk/crimeprevention/ If any one has any information regarding shed burglaries please call the team confidentially on 0208 721 2744. You may not necessarily think it is important but it might be anything from damaged fences, or footprints in your garden, people hanging about outside you house at strange hours, or someone cycling passed regularly with no particular or obvious reason, or someone paying close attention to your property or bicycle as you come home from work. We are doing are best to stamp down on crime if you have any information please call us. Arrests We have had one arrest this month for the offence of cycle theft with a male being stopped by officers from the team and arrested for the offence. A search was conducted at the males address where a further three bikes were seized. The male has been bailed pending further enquiries to identify possible owners for the bikes Ward surgeries Ward surgeries are for you as a local resident to come along and discuss your views on the crime and disorder that affects you. Street Briefing events offer you the opportunity to have your property marked, get crime prevention advice and discuss your local concerns with the team. Times 1pm - 2pm 14th Sunday August 2011 Lavender Police Office Wilson Avenue 6pm - 7pm 13th Tuesday September 2011 Lavender Pavilion Steers Mead Mitcham STREET BRIEFING 3pm -4pm Wednesday 27th July 2011 Victoria Road 7pm - 8pm Thursday 25th August 2011 Bond Road 8pm - 9pm Saturday 24th September 2011 Brangywn Crescent Lavender Fields Team: Sgt Andy Ball Pc Adi Lai Pcso Matt Moss Pcso Elif Chambers Pcso Sara Vandepeer Mobex: 020 8721 2744 Fax: 020 8649 3238 E-mail: LavenderFields.SNT@met.police.uk, Mail: Lavender Fields & Graveney, Safer Neighbourhoods Base, 14-18 Wilson Avenue, Mitcham, CR4 3JL