CommunitySafe.gov.uk

Dear members,

 

During the months of October and November the Raynes Park Safer Neighbourhoods Team are involved in a Borough wide initiative named “Operation Autumn Nights”

This initiative is used to target the period surrounding Halloween and Bonfire Night, and patrols are co-ordinated to stem the levels of youth violence and disorder during this volatile period. Members of the team will be on foot patrol in hotspot areas in an attempt to prevent any anti social behaviour which also includes robbery and disorder. As the nights draw in, officers will also be paying attention to residential properties in relation to the prevention of burglaries.

 

Burglary in Raynes Park has slightly increased, with the main point of entry to residential properties being the rear of the premises. The method of entry (modus operandi) has been by the suspects using a screwdriver to drill a hole in the plastic frameworks of UPVC patio doors and windows. This causes the metal frame surrounding the double glazing to bend which causes tension on the diagonal points of the window - thus the window shatters. The suspects can then easily push the shattered window to allow them entry to the property. This method considerably reduces the sound made in comparison to, for example, using a brick to smash the window.

Once inside, the suspects seem to be targeting jewellery, with many electrical items obviously on display remaining untouched.

Flats have also been targeted, with the preferred method of entry for suspects to be by slipping the lock. This is easily done with Yale locks. Flat owners are reminded to ensure Chubb locks are used, even when leaving the premises for a small amount of time - it only takes an opportunist 20 seconds to get into your property via slipping the lock!

 

The team are continually using the proactive “Operation Bumblebee” method and notifying homeowners who have left their homes vulnerable - whether it is by leaving a window of the premises open, leaving side gates open or leaving bottles of milk on the doorstep which are all clear indicators of a susceptible home.

Please make note of the following advice that the team is urging homeowners to compel with:

Ensure all windows and doors are double locked when leaving your home. If you have sash style windows - possibly fit sash stops or bolts to limit how far the windows open.

Fit fringing or cages around letterboxes - this will considerably reduce the risk of letterbox burglaries.

Sensor lights are the most effective deterrent and fixing these to the front and rear of your properties reduce the risk of being targeted by opportunists. Timer switches also are a great way to give the impression that someone is home when linked with lamps, radios and TV’s.

 

As part of our continuing efforts to reduce the number of Burglary victims, the Safer Neighbourhoods Team will again be commencing a Crime Prevention initiative within the Ward. We will be offering all residents the opportunity of having an officer visit them to conduct a crime prevention survey of their homes security. The survey will take about 15 minutes and is free of charge. Based on notes that the officer takes, or on the specific advice you request, you will receive a full security report tailored to your requirements and which will set out a security standard for your home.

It is entirely at your discretion whether you act upon any of the advice that is offered, but if you do it will reduce the possibility of you becoming a victim of burglary.

 

Other News:

 

PC Mary Mitchell of the team has had to deal with a matter at Raynes Park High School where a 14 year old pupil has been charged with possession of 2 knives on the school premises and bailed to court.

This is an isolated incident and these types of incidents are very rare and given the upmost attention by the relevant agencies including the school and Police.

 

The Raynes Park Safer Neighbourhoods Team continues to work hard in your area. If you need our assistance or any advice please do not hesitate to contact us via e-mail at raynespark.SNT@met.police.uk or by phone on 0208 721 2459

 

Thank you for reading,

 

Sergeant Graham Chapman

West Barnes and Raynes Park Safer Neighbourhoods Team