Burglary News

 

Duane Harding, a 26 year old man from the London area was sentenced at Kingston Crown Court on the 14/12/12 for committing a burglary in West Barnes Lane New Malden on Friday 4th March 2011. The sentence was

 

£750 Compensation for the victims

26 weeks custody suspended for 12 months

12 month Supervision order

3 month curfew

 

Harding was caught by the Police and Community working together. The Police had installed some temporary CCTV into a small car parking area near West Barnes Lanes  following a car repeatedly having items stolen from it. On the date of the offence this CCTV caught Harding going to and from the premises he broke into. At the same time a member of the public saw Harding arrive in his car and leave a short while later with a suitcase which he did not have when he first arrived. This person thought it was strange so made a note of the registration of the car. This information quickly lead to Police identifying Harding where DC Temple formerly of Wimbledon CID lead the investigation and ensured Harding's prompt arrest leading to his prosecution.

 

Telephone Scam

 

A Fraud Prevention Team called Operation Sterling are working together on fraud prevention concerning the crime we are calling "Courier Fraud".  As you may or may not be aware the "Courier" fraud is a real issue at the moment and has been for over a year now. Certainly in the Met Police area we are receiving daily crimes - on average ten a day. Our priority at present is to work on this fraud which is effecting the elderly and vulnerable more and more.
The method is that the victim is cold called at home on their landline number. The suspect then either pretends to be the police or from the victims bank. The suspect will say that there has been a compromise on their account and that in order to investigate it and catch the suspects responsible the card needs to be collected ASAP for forensic or other issues. They are then asked for the pin number to the card which they may give verbally over the telephone (via clever social engineering) or the victim is asked to key in the pin number on their telephone keypad. A simple "App" called "Blue Box" for example decodes the tone to the number keyed in. Social engineering aside the telephone allows the suspect to successfully obtain the pin number. In addition to verify the fraud the victim is advised to phone their bank or the police to confirm what they have just been told. This is when of course the victim's line has been held open by the suspect who does not hang up their end. Once the victim is convinced a "courier" is sent round to the victims address to collect the card. The courier is more often than not an innocent cab driver sent to collect from A to B or the suspects themselves. Much work has been done via Transport for London re prevention work streams for the cab companies etc.

Please be aware; neither the police or bank will ever ask for your PIN so don't give it out.

 

 

Graham Chapman

Sgt 54VW

Raynes Park and West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team

• Courier Fraud Poster (983.7 KB)

 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.

Dear Resident

 

October and November are traditionally 2 of the busiest months of the year for crime on Raynes Park and West Barnes Wards so now is a good time to remind yourself how you can significantly reduce your chances of being a victim of crime by taking some simple steps.

 

Theft from motor vehicles remains the highest type of crime committed in this area with cars left unlocked overnight and cars left near sports grounds being targeted. A man has recently been charged with 2 counts of handling stolen goods regarding SatNavs stolen from the West Barnes Ward overnight. I suspect more than one person is responsible for this so it is well worth checking your car is locked before going to bed. We have had several reports of young men seen walking down streets in the middle of the night trying car door handles.

 

We have had no reports of lockers at sports venues being broken into in the last 6 months but quite a few reports of cars being forcibly entered. Our advice is to take your property with you otherwise the offenders may see you put your expensive phone into the boot of your car then while the car park is quiet with everyone at the match the car is broken into.

 

If you require any further information or would like to contact the Raynes Park or West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team please see our details below.

 

Sgt Graham Chapman

54VW

 

RaynesPark.SNT@met.police.uk or 0208 721 2459

WestBarnes.SNT@met.police.uk or 0208 721 2454

SHED BURGLARIES

 

 

Between the weekends of the 12th May to the 6th June, there were ten shed/garage burglaries in Marina Avenue, Arthur Road and Seaforth Avenue.

Various power tools, soft and alcoholic drinks and a number of bikes were stolen from these sheds and garages.

 

Five local men were arrested following one of these offences. These five were between the ages of 13 and 20 years old. Following the Police investigation 3 were released without charge while the other 2 had charges brought against them namely

 

A 13 year old boy for 2 burglaries and

 

Another 13 year old boy for Possession of Criminal property namely drinks and 4 bikes to the total value of £2702.99.

 

The boys cannot be named for legal reasons due to their ages but they have been given curfews as part of their current bail conditions.

 

 

SHED SECURITY ADVICE

 

 

Following the below advice will greatly reduce the chances of you being a victim of such a crime. Point 7 is particularly important.

 

1- Ensure that your sheds have a good lock on them.

 

2- Put up outside security lighting.

 

3- Think carefully about where you leave outside furniture; do not make it   easy for criminals to have something to stand on to gain access to your garden/property.

 

4- Be mindful of what is the other side of you garden fence, if it’s an alley way or a field bare in mind that this will be more attractive to criminals.

 

5- Install a burglar alarm or a fake box that resembles one to the on looking criminal.

 

6- Invest in CCTV.

 

7- When you buy a bike make sure you spend well on a lock, once the bike is in the shed make sure it is locked to something permanent within the shed, making it more difficult for the criminal to take the bike.

 

8- Property mark all your personal belongings.  You can log all personal belongings that have a serial number onto Immobilise.co.uk

 

9- If you have a rear/side gate to your property, ensure that they are locked securely. Your fencing can also be improved by investing in some anti climb spikes, we would suggest something similar to Prikka Hinge Strips (Brick Strips) which can be seen at www.insight-security.com/perimeter.htm

 

The West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team continues to work hard in your area. If you need our assistance please do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail at WestBarnes.SNT@met.police.uk or by phone on 0208 721 2454.

 

 

PC Lisa Sylvester 691VW

West Barnes Safer neighbourhood Team.

Dear Resident

 

Please be aware the Raynes Park and West Barnes Wards have suffered some overnight thefts from motor vehicles. The method used by the offenders is to walk down the streets during the night time hours and repeatedly try car door handles until they find a car left accidentally unlocked. They will then search the vehicle and take any loose change, Sat Navs, CDs or sunglasses. During the night time hours of Friday 6th July to Saturday morning 2 cars were entered in Adela Avenue and 1 in Seaforth Avenue.

 

The offenders are transient and will hit one area one night then move to another area another night. It may well be another month before they return to the same street.

 

You can help the Police by reporting any sightings you have of people you see trying car door handles. It is an offence to interfere with a motor vehicle in order to steal from it so use 999 if you see people trying car door handles as this is an offence in progress.

 

You can also help by checking your car is locked before going to bed. This may seem obvious but it is quite easy to pull up outside your home address and be distracted by your mobile phone going off, the kids playing up or a neighbour talking to you and you forget to lock the car.

 

If you wish to speak to a member of the team then please contact us on one of the below numbers.

 

Raynes Park: 0208 721 2459 or Email RaynesPark.SNT@met.police.uk

West Barnes: 0208 721 2454 or Email WestBarnes.Snt@met.police.uk

 

Graham Chapman

Sgt 54VW

Merton Police are now on Twitter - Please follow us on #MPSMerton - For updates on the police in your community.

This is not a crime reporting system and we can always be contacted in an emergency on 999 and by the non emergency number 101.

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.

Dear Members,

 

Good News

 

Raynes Park:

 

Two individuals have been charged for burglary after they targeted a property in Worple Road, Raynes Park. The male and female are due to appear at court after forcing their way into the property and stealing alcohol from within.

 

West Barnes:

 

Two different males have been charged with burglary after they were arrested in the evening in the garden of a property in West Barnes Lane. The males are due to attend court for sentencing.

 

For both of the above crimes the individuals were arrested as a result of calls from vigilant members of public. This is a reminder for all residents to call in any suspicious activity that they may notice. It’s thanks to these observant residents that the individuals were identified and arrested, preventing them from going on to possibly carry out further criminal activity across the wards.

 

Other arrests have been made on people in the area who are suspected of being on their way to commit a burglary. However they had to be released without charge due to insufficient evidence. The conspiracy to commit crime offences are difficult to prove due to the person not yet having committed a crime but please be assured that Police are tackling this matter in everyway possible.

 

Crime Alert

 

Raynes Park:

 

Burglaries in Raynes Park have continued despite the arrests with a pattern emerging. There seems to be a correlation between the crimes being committed and the properties targeted. Flats and houses with small open windows seem to be the main entry points for burglaries with the suspects often using these small windows to open larger ones in order to gain entry to the property. There have been occasions where the suspects have used ladders that have been left unsecured in gardens in order to obtain entry via first floor windows. Vulnerable perimeters have also allowed for suspects to easily gain access to the rear of properties.

 

West Barnes:

 

Burglaries in West Barnes have decreased in February however they are still occurring. Houses are being targeted and entry has been gained via the rear of the premises via forcing doors and windows.

 

Crime prevention advice:

 

Your dedicated Safer Neighbourhoods team is here to make a difference in your community. We continue to alert homeowners of any vulnerability that we notice on our day to day patrols via the Operation Bumblebee Scheme. Please take note of the following crime prevention advice that we are offering to all residents:

 

KEEP YOUR HOME AND GARDEN SECURE

 

1)         Lock the doors and windows when you go out, even if it’s only for a few minutes. Invest in an alarm and/or CCTV

 

2)         Lock up when you go to bed, but put the keys somewhere you can find them quickly in an emergency. 

 

3)         Do not leave car/door keys near the front door as they can be stolen through the letterbox.

 

4)         Don’t let people see into your home - draw the curtains or blinds when you put the                        lights on.

 

5)         If you go out when it is dark, ensure you turn some lights on.

 

6)         When you go on holiday, ensure you have timers on your lights/TV and radio – this       will provide the illusion that you are in the property.  Also ensure that your neighbours are aware that you are going away.

 

7)         Ensure you do not leave valuable items in your shed.   Ensure your shed has sufficient locks.

 

8)        Property mark all your personal belongings.  You can log all personal belongings that have a serial number onto Immobilise.co.uk

 

9)        If you have a rear/side gate to your property, ensure that they are locked securely. Your fencing can also be improved by investing in some anti climb spikes, we would suggest something similar to Prikka Hinge Strips (Brick Strips) which can be seen at www.insight-security.com/perimeter.htm

 

 

Don’t hesitate to report any suspicious activity to police by calling 999.

 

Should you unfortunately be a victim of crime, it’s important to make a police report, by calling 101 or in person at a police station.

 

The West Barnes and Raynes Park Safer Neighbourhoods Team continue to work hard in your area. If you need our assistance please do not hesitate to contact us.

Contact the West Barnes Team via e-mail at WestBarnes.snt@met.police,uk or by phone on 0208 721 2454; and for Raynes Park, RaynesPark.snt@met.police.uk or by phone on 0208 721 2459

 

Thank you for reading

 

Priya Patel

PCSO 7292VW

Raynes Park Safer Neighbourhoods Team

Ward Panel Virtual Surveys

 

We will soon be launching a new way of collecting information regarding the issues that affect you or are of interest to you as someone living on this ward. 

 

The information will be obtained in the form of a short online survey which we will send out every 3 months.  We would like to know if you would be interested in receiving this survey.  If you are, we will need your first name, last name and email address. We will then send an e-mail every three months informing you the next survey is available and a link to the actual survey. 

 

The results from the survey will be used at Ward Panel Meetings to enable better decisions to be made on where to target Police resources to tackle the issues raised.  The information will also provide a better understanding of local issues for the West Barnes Safer Neighbourhood Team.  The information will enable us to implement a more targeted approach to our patrols. 

 

For example, we may identify a need to change our shifts if there is an issue that is occurring at certain times, for example; people congregating in an area at night and causing a nuisance.  We may also use the information to arrange operations, for example; if there is an issue with drivers speeding in a particular area then we can arrange for assistance from the Traffic Team to carry out speed checking in the area and arrange for an Automatic Number Plate Reader to take part as well.  There are many ways that we can adapt our current approach.  We would very much like to hear from you if there is an issue that concerns you.  As above, please send your details to us. 

 

 

The West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team continues to work hard in your area. If you need our assistance please do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail at WestBarnes.SNT@met.police.uk or by phone on 0208 721 2454.

 

Thank you,

 

Graham Chapman

 

PS 54VW

Dear members,

 

We hope that you all had a good Christmas and New Year. 

 

Crime News

 

A recent priority given to the team was the crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) occurring on and around Burlington Road. Back in October 2011 a man was identified as being involved and the Police wanted to speak to him about several crimes in the area. He disappeared for a couple of months but on the 29th December he was seen while PCSO Glackin and PCSO Clargo were on foot patrol. The man tried to leave the area in a taxi but as the officers had already called for assistance on the radio and with luck a Police car was also nearby the taxi was quickly found and the man arrested. He has since been charged with Robbery, Common Assault, Malicious Communications and fraud and the matter awaits trial.

 

The burglaries have continued in the area and we need your help. Most have occurred by the offenders gaining access to the rear garden and breaking a window or door to get in. Most have occurred in the early evening once it has got dark. If you see anyone in the alleys behind your house that you do not recognize then call us using 999 and explain there have been burglaries in the area and people are acting suspiciously in the alleys behind your house. For non-emergency enquiries then call 101. Some offenders assess houses by calling at them and pretending to be selling something. We like to check all the people going door-door selling so if you get a cold-caller who seems out of place and not from a genuine company then again call 999.

 

Other News

 

On the 8th December the team was joined by other Safer Neighbourhood Teams, enforcement officers from Merton Council and Trading Standards who helped in an Automatic Number Plate Recognition operation. This is where cameras are used to read vehicle number plates and Police stop vehicles of interest. This was done on the Burlington Road. During the course of the operation 32 vehicles were stopped, 1 was seized for being driven with no insurance and another man received a street warning for possession of cannabis.

 

Crime prevention

 

As well as offering home crime prevention surveys we will now property mark your valuable belongings. If you are unlucky enough to be a victim of crime then this gives us a chance of returning property we find back to the rightful owner. Everything we do is free of charge as we are sometimes asked how much do these services cost.

 

Leading up to Christmas the team set up a display at Tesco, New Malden showing how much alcohol people needed to drink before they reached the legal limit. This was well received with a lot of people not aware how small the actual amount is.

 

Immobilise is a national database where you enter the details of you property. This information is available to police who search the database to identify stolen property.  This aids us bringing people to court.   If you go on to www.immobilise.com you can register your property.

 

So please make a note of those all important serial numbers.

 -          Phones have an IMEI number.  If you put *#06# in the phone this will give you a           16 digit number which will start with a 35 or 36 unless it is an iphone and then it     starts with 01. Failing that if you still have the box there is a label on the side             with a bar code on it and the IMEI number can be found there. 

 -          The bike has a frame number.  If you turn the bike upside down you will find this            number on the underside of the bike where the pedals attach to the frame. 

 -          All other property normally has the serial number on a plate at the back or         underneath of the item.

 

 

The next drop-in-surgery where you can meet members of the team is 3pm on Thursday 12th January at West Barnes Library by Motspur Park train station. We will be happy to discuss any concerns you have.

 

The West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team continues to work hard in your area. If you need our assistance please do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail at WestBarnes.snt@met.police,uk or by phone on 0208 721 2454.

 

If you see any thing suspicious please dial 999 in an emergency and 101 for all non emergency calls.

 

Graham Chapman

Sgt 54VW

 Crime News

 

 

Burglary

 

Crime alert: The number of burglaries on the ward rose dramatically in November

 

In addition to this, there is usually a rise in the number of burglaries that occur in the run up to Christmas and even afterwards; reaching a peak on New Years Eve. Many burglars will take opportunities based on the assumption that people are out socialising more or away with families at this time of year.

 

Please bare in mind the following:

 

Most of the burglaries have occurred where entry has been forced to the rear of the house. The offenders are choosing houses with relatively easy access to the back garden through alley ways. Often one of the offenders will call at the front door to see if there is a response then come up with a vague excuse if seen by the occupant.

 

Make your home appear less vulnerable.  Invest in an alarm or a fake alarm box, security/sensor lights for front and/or rear are also a good deterrent.  If you have a driveway and you have more than one car kept at your home, where possible park one on the driveway if you are going out.  Keep a light on in the evenings if you go out or invest in a timer to come on automatically.  Ensure windows are locked and gates are secure - according to the Home Office, no force is required in as many as a fifth of burglaries because doors and windows were left insecure.

 

Secure sheds just as well as houses - they contain the tools a burglar needs to get into your house.  In addition to this, be careful when positioning garden furniture, wheelie bins etc, with regards to the items being used to assist in climbing over gates and garden fences.

 

If you are leaving gifts under the tree, if possible, make sure that these are out of view of the window.

 

Don't hide your presents in obvious places like under the bed or in the wardrobe. Thieves are less likely to get into the roof space.

 

Before wrapping presents make a note of the model and serial numbers. Keep receipts separate so that you have a record and thieves can't return the items to the shop.

 

After opening presents put your postcode on with a permanent marker to make them harder to sell on and therefore less attractive to thieves - they are also more likely to be returned to you by police if found.

 

Rip up present boxes and take them to the tip - they are an indication that a house has brand new and valuable contents.

 

It's also worth checking what insurance cover you have if the worst does happen. Many home contents policies automatically increase their cover during the festive season, but a call to your insurer will make sure you're protected for any potential expensive gifts to be received or given. 

 

Burlington Road

 

We are aware of issues arising from groups of people congregating in the Burlington Road area in the evenings.  The issues are largely resulting in reports of behaviour that is intimidating or anti social to members of the public and business proprietors.  However, we believe that most of the issues are not being reported to us for fear of reprisals.

 

We have increased patrols in the area and we would like any further information on the issues.  This can be passed to us anonymously, if needed, via the Metropolitan Police Website or by contacting us on the details below.

 

Last month, a pre planned operation took place to arrest two males in connection with an incident that took place at a restaurant on Burlington Road.  The operation involved several officers from the Crime Squad -based at Wimbledon and the Safer Neighbourhood Teams from Morden and Kingston-Upon-Thames.  A warrant was obtained and a male was detained and arrested at his home address by PC Sylvester, a PC on West Barnes SNT. 

 

 

 

The West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team continues to work hard in your area. If you need our assistance please do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail at WestBarnes.SNT@met.police.uk or by phone on 0208 721 2454.

 

Thank you,

 

Heather Quin

PC 794VW

Crime News

 

Vehicle Crime

On Thursday 22 September 2011, a joint crime prevention operation was organised by West Barnes SNT with Tesco and Halfords Autos.

 

The operation took place at the Tesco Store, New Malden with assistance from the Halfords Autos Store, New Malden. The oil company; BP, provided the finance for the operation.

 

Visitors were invited to have free tamper proof number plate screws fitted to their vehicles.  In total, the staff from Halfords fitted around 200 vehicles with the screws.

 

The operation was arranged in response to a rise in the number of thefts of number plates in recent months on the borough.  On this ward, only one case occurred in October.

 

In relation to one theft, a male has been arrested and charged by West Barnes SNT officers for stealing number plates from a vehicle on the ward, along with other offences.

 

Burglary

The number of burglaries committed on the ward was considerably lower in July and August with 3 and 5 occurring respectively.  This is in comparison to the relatively high number that occurred in the spring of this year. 

 

Unfortunately, the number has risen again in September with 13 burglaries occurring.  As part of Operation ‘Autumn Night’s’ (further details below), an increase in the number of officers have been deployed to the area.  For October, 4 burglaries have been committed to date.

 

With most of the burglaries, the offenders have gained access via the rear of a property and forced UPVC doors or smashed a window.  On several occasions, doors and windows have been smashed using garden tools.  The tools were either left in the garden or the offenders have broken into the shed and taken tools to use.  Please ensure that tools are locked securely away.

 

In other occurrences in the borough of Merton, entry has been gained by using an adapted rod with a hook.  This is inserted through the letterbox to operate the door handle from the inside.

This vulnerability can easily be eliminated by ensuring that the UPVC door is fully locked at night.  This ensures that the multi-point locking is correctly in place.

 

For fire safety reasons, the key should then be left in a position where it can be easily accessed in an emergency but ensuring that it can't be reached via the letterbox.

 

Autumn Nights

A four week operation named; Autumn Night’s, was launched by police from Merton Borough on Monday 17th October and is due to run until Sunday 13th November. 

 

Part of the operation will involve a significant increase in the usual number of police officers out on the streets.  The focus is on the prevention of Burglaries, Robberies, Knife Crime and Anti Social Behaviour.  Historically, an increase in these offences has occurred at this time of year as evenings start to become darker at an earlier time allowing offenders a greater opportunity to commit crime.

 

This time of year also presents an opportunity for an increase in anti social behaviour in connection with Halloween and Bon Fire Night:

 

Bon Fire Night

We will continue patrols across the Ward to ensure the safety of residents leading up to Bon Fire Night. This is a time of celebration and fun for most people but please bear in mind the below information to ensure a safe and happy time. 

 

According to the Child Accident Prevention Trust, over 550 children under 16 are taken to A&E in the four weeks surrounding bonfire night alone.

 

Also worth bearing in mind that a sparkler can reach a temperature of up to 2,000 degrees Celsius – 20 times the boiling point of water. And three sparklers burning together generate the same heat as a blowtorch.  Sparklers should not be given to children under the age of 5.

 

If you are planning on having fireworks in your garden, or you are planning on attending an organised event, please take a look at the advice on the following websites:

 

Fire Service:

http://www.fireservice.co.uk/safety/bonfires and the:

Child Accident Prevention Trust website:

http://www.capt.org.uk/who-we-are/news/focus-firework-safety

 

Halloween

We have distributed posters to local shopkeepers requesting them to refuse the sale of eggs and flour around Halloween to people below the age of 16. 

 

A ‘No Trick or Treat’ poster is attached for anyone wishing to deter unwanted callers.

 

The West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team continues to work hard in your area. If you need our assistance please do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail at WestBarnes.SNT@met.police.uk or by phone on 0208 721 2454.

 

Thank you,

 

Heather Quin

PC 794VW

• No Trick or Treat Poster (92.4 KB)

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.

 

 

Crime News

 

Operation Withern

 

On 16th August, a male living in Crossway, SW20, was arrested as part of Operation Withern, a pro-active intelligence led operation to recover stolen property and arrest those believed to be involved in recent incidents of disorder.

 

The male was charged with three offences and remanded in custody to attend court.

 

Anyone with information about the disorder or who would like to pass images or footage to Operation Withern is asked to contact the Major Investigation Team on 020 8345 4142. Alternatively anyone can report crime and provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

 

Images regarding the disorder can also be viewed on www.met.police.uk

 

Vehicle Crime

 

Throughout the borough of Merton, 15 cases of stolen number plates were reported to police in August.  Two incidents occurred on our ward.  One occurred overnight on Monday 2 August in Cannon Close.  The second occurred on Church Walk between 2300 and 0000 on Tuesday 16th August.  In the latter case, the number plates were placed on another vehicle and used within minutes to carry out a theft of petrol from the Esso Garage at Shannons Corner. 

 

PCSO Lewis has arranged for staff from Halfords to attend Tesco, Beverley Way, New Malden on Thursday 22nd September to fit tamper proof number plate screws to cars and vans free of charge. The screws are being provided by oil company BP at no cost to the person taking them.  We will be there from 10am to 3pm.

 

There has also been an increase in thefts occurring from vehicles parked in the car park of B&Q, Burlington Road, New Malden.  On Friday 26th August 2011, four vehicles were broken into within minutes of each other. Two of the vehicles had a hole drilled or punched through the door near the lock to gain access.  One vehicle had the rear door handle forced and the other had the drivers door wedged open.  Two further incidents have also occurred in August in the same car park.  Most of the victims have had tools stolen from them. Patrols have been increased in the area and West Barnes SNT are liaising with B&Q to find ways to decrease the number of thefts taking place. To help prevent the crimes from happening we are recommending when visiting this car park one person stays with the car or van as the offenders have only targeted unoccupied vehicles. If you have to leave tools in a van then make sure they are out of sight and invest in a heavy duty second lock for the doors on the van.

 

CCTV

 

The CCTV on Station Road has now been reinstated to full working order.  Several investigations of incidents that had occurred around Motspur Park Train Station in the last two years had been hampered by a lack of CCTV evidence due to the cameras being disabled.  In future, the position of the cameras will hopefully assist in providing evidence for investigations and also act as a deterrent to would be criminals.

 

Your Say

 

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

 

 

The West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team continues to work hard in your area. If you need our assistance please do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail at WestBarnes.SNT@met.police.uk or by phone on 0208 721 2454.

 

Graham Chapman

Sgt 54VW

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.

Merton Borough Commander Chief Superintendent Dick Wolfenden writes "Since my last update (6pm yesterday), much work has been done overnight in relation to identifying and arresting those responsible for Monday night's serious disorder in Colliers Wood.

This morning a number of search warrants have been executed locally by Merton police, leading to a number of arrests.  

A significant amount of property believed to have been stolen from local retailers has been recovered.

Last night was relatively quiet with no outbreaks of disorder. Current policing levels are set to continue and will be reviewed on a daily basis.

I would like to thank the many members of our local communities and businesses who have been providing information to us about suspected looters and those involved in the violence, and supporting my officers and staff with so many messages of goodwill. 

We urge our communities to continue helping us, giving any information on the identities of the wanted people whose CCTV images we either have or will be releasing over the coming days. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 11 or Merton Police via 101 any time.

We continue to work closely with our partners at Merton Council and I thank them for the extraordinary support they are giving us in so many practical ways.

I have been asked by a number of stakeholders to explain the purpose of two operations that are running at the moment 'Operation Kirkin' and 'Operation Withern'

Operation Kirkin is the overall MPS policing operation which is coordinating a pan-London response to the series of outbreaks of criminality and disorder across London which commenced in Haringey Borough on Saturday 6th August and has spread to other London boroughs, including Merton.

Operation Withern is the Pan-London dedicated criminal investigation which is coordinating the resources and investigative strategies associated with all the crimes associated with the same events.

Merton Borough is aligned to and supporting both operations, making full use of the central and specialist support and additional resources available from elsewhere within the organisation.

Finally many of my staff are tired, but we remain absolutely resolute in our shared desire to do all that we possibly can to continue to keep communities within the borough safe and prevent bad things happening to good people.

As always, on behalf of all at Merton Police, thank you once again for the many messages of support we are currently receiving.    

Dick Wolfenden
Merton Borough Commander

merton@met.police.uk

10.08.11

 

Last night London did not see the levels of disorder we saw the previous night and large numbers of officers on the streets prevented incidents occurring.

 

We will continue with similar numbers of officers on the streets of London tonight and this will be reviewed on a daily basis.

 

We ask members of the public to remain vigilant and take sensible precautions to ensure their safety.

 

We would advise members of the public to avoid any unnecessary travel to areas that have been affected by the events of the last few of days, and help the emergency services by giving us the room that we need to respond. Make sure you are safe and do not put yourselves into vulnerable positions.

 

It is possible that your journeys to and from your destination may be affected so think ahead and plan carefully. Stay alert and be aware of what is going on around you. If you do have any concerns about returning home, you should consider staying with friends or family members outside of the affected areas.

 

Over the last 24 hour period we have taken almost double the 999 calls that we normally would see (10,000 compared to a normal 5,300).  However during the previous 24 hour period to this we received over 20,000 999 calls.  Consequently some callers may experience difficulty in getting through to 999, or waiting longer than usual for their call to be answered. We would ask you to bear with us, and only use 999 in situations that require an immediate police response. 

 

We wish to reassure members of the public that we continue to have plans and resources in place to respond to any further disorder, deal with normal policing across the city and keep Londoners safe.  We continue to work with our partners and the community to ensure residents and businesses can go about their daily lives in confidence.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Getting information and advice

 

Where can I get information and advice?

Police are providing the media with information to keep the public informed. Tune in to your local radio or television station for updates or visit our website.

 

You can also follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/metpoliceuk or join our Neighbourhoodlink service. For more information visit www.neighbourhoodlink.met.police.uk/registration/

 

How can I find out local information?

Many councils are providing local updates on the disturbances in their area.

You can find your local council by following the DirectGov link below: Find your local council Opens new window

 

Travelling in and around London

 

Is it safe to travel around London?

We would advise members of the public to avoid any unnecessary travel to areas that have been affected by the events of the last couple of days and to keep safe by not putting themselves into vulnerable positions.

It is possible that your journeys to and from your destination may be affected so think ahead and plan carefully. Stay alert and be aware of what is going on around you.

 

If you do have any concerns about returning home this evening, you should consider staying with friends or family members outside of the affected areas.

If you need help planning a journey, you can use the ‘Travel Tools’ on TfL’s website. [Link to http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/traveltools/default.aspx?cmp=BAC-campaign&campaign-id=fwd-TRAVELTOOLS] These include tools to help plan your journey and free mobile travel alerts.

 

You can also call the London Travel Information on 020 7222 1234 any time - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  It can provide journey information like the last tube and bus times, bus stop locations and cab numbers, as well as train, DLR and tram information.

 

Are the buses safe?

Our Safer Transport Teams are providing support to drivers and providing a visible presence, but please consider whether your journey is absolutely necessary.

 

Advice for parents/guardians

 

Are my children safe?

There are unprecedented numbers of officers on the streets of London - around 16,000 today.  We are doing everything we can to support communities and keep people safe. 

 

Over the last few nights there have been a large numbers of young people placing themselves in situations that were dangerous and violent. We appeal to parents and all those responsible for young people to work together with police to ensure that youngsters do not get drawn into the kind of disorder we have seen.

 

There is a role for the whole community - police, parents, schools, local leaders and others - to stand together and convey the message that crime and disorder will not be tolerated. 

 

Contacting the police

 

I can’t get through on 999, what should I do?

 

If it is an emergency please keep trying. We have been experiencing significant demands; almost double as many calls than normal. We will deal with your call as quickly as possible.  If it is not an emergency, please use one of the following:

 

• calling 101 to report a crime that has already happened, seek crime prevention advice or make us aware of any policing issues in your local area.
• via  our website at www.met.police.uk
• via your local police station.

 

Helping the police

 

How can I help the police?

You can help us by assisting in the identification of people that have been looting, rioting and committing crime.

 

Anyone with information should call our incident room on 020 8345 4142. Alternatively you can call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

We are also publishing images of people wanted in connection with looting. Follow the link below to see if you recognise any of the people we wish to speak to.

Wanted for looting: Metropolitan Police's Flickr channel Opens new window

 

Police tactics

 

What tactic are the police using?

The MPS employs tactics that are primarily designed to prevent injury to members of the public and police officers. In instances where officers have been outnumbered, they have waited until they can intervene with minimum risk to the public. The MPS is determined to prevent further crime and to bring the criminals to justice.

Graham Chapman

Sgt 54VW

West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team

0208 721 2454

Email: WestBarnes.SNT@met.police.uk

Merton Borough Commander Dick Wolfenden said "Following on from the violence, disorder, theft and criminal damage which took place on Monday evening within Merton we have worked together with the local authority, community groups (especially the business community) and other local stakeholders to plan and prepare for any outbreaks of similar criminal activity on the borough."

 

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.

Crime News

 

On Wednesday 20th July 2011 officers PC Quin, PC Abberton and Sgt Chapman from the West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team along with Merton Benefit Fraud Investigation Team attended an address on the ward and arrested a man and a woman on suspicion of committing housing and child benefit fraud to the value of £100,000. Their house was searched for evidence using powers available to the Police after a person has been arrested and various documents were seized. The couple were then interviewed on tape before being released on bail while further enquiries are made into the matter.

 

On Saturday 9th July 2011 PC Abberton and Sgt Chapman attended an address in Blakes Terrace and arrested a woman who was wanted on warrant for failing to appear at Camberwell Green Magistrates. The warrant requires the Police to place the person before the next available court so they had to remain in custody until Monday morning when the court had its next sitting. The lady pleaded guilty to the prostitution offence she had committed and was given no further penalty.

 

Can I take this opportunity to remind residents to be mindful of their security during the hot weather. A house was entered in Seaforth Avenue at 10pm on Wednesday 3rd August through an open window at the rear of the house while the occupants were in a room at the front. The occupant heard the intruder and the intruder fled. We do not believe anything was stolen from the house.

 

Future Events

 

A car number plate was stolen from a car parked in Westway over the weekend of the 30th/31st July. A second car parked in Cannon Close had it's plates stolen overnight on the 1st/2nd July. We have not had any of these reports for several months having had a spate of number plate thefts in 2010. To help prevent these happening again PCSO Lewis has arranged an event on Thursday 22nd September in Tesco Car Park, Malden Way between 10am and 3pm where staff from Halfords will be fitting tamper proof number plate screws to cars and vans free of charge. The screws are being provided by oil company BP at no cost to the person taking them. We should be easy to find in the car park on the day and there will be staff at the front entrance to the store who can direct you to where we will be.

 

The West Barnes Safer Neighbourhoods Team continues to work hard in your area. If you need our assistance please do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail at WestBarnes.SNT@met.police.uk or by phone on 0208 721 2454.

 

Graham Chapman

Sgt 54VW

 

Please see the attached word document updating you of some local burglars being sent to jail. The ward suffered some of these letterbox style burglaries in 2010 where the offender had got the car keys by going through the letterbox. The West Barnes and Dundonald Safer Neighbourhoods Teams assisted the enquiry by taking part in the dawn raids and arresting a youth suspected of being part of the gang.

 

There are photographs on the attachment which may be of interest to you. If it does not open then the text from the attachment is below but without the photographs.

 

Graham Chapman

Sgt 54VW

WestBarnes.SNT@met.police.uk

0208 721 2454

 

Car theft gang jailed

 

Nine members of an organised crime network, suspected of stealing £2million-worth of vehicles, have been jailed at Kingston Crown Court after an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service's South West Area Crime Squad.

 

 

In October 2010, officers initially identified a linked series of vehicle burglaries being committed in Kingston and Surrey by a team of four suspects. Further investigation identified up to 70 offences across south-west London and Surrey being committed by a gang consisting of in excess of 10 members, and with the value of vehicles being stolen estimated at over £2 million.

  

A series of dawn raids followed in December 2010, resulting in a number of arrests and subsequent charges.

 

The members of the network who were sentenced on 5 July are:

 

Sam Walton, 25, of Windrush, New Malden, pleaded guilty to 3 burglaries and 1 count of handling stolen goods (vehicle) and received 3 years imprisonment

 

Craig Mills, 20, of Norbiton Common Road, Kingston pleaded guilty to 3 burglaries and 1 count of HSG (vehicle) and received 3 years imprisonment

 

Rico Persechino, 22, of Cotsford Avenue, New Malden pleaded guilty to 3 burglaries and 1 count of HSG (vehicle ) and received 2 years 8 months imprisonment

 

Daniel Axeworthy, 22, of Acacia Grove, New Malden pleaded guilty to 3 burglaries and 1 count of HSG (vehicle) and received 3 years 3 months imprisonment

 

Harry MacKay, 21, of Queens Road, Thames Ditton, Surrey pleaded guilty to 1 burglary and received 18 months imprisonment

 

Jordan Brogden, 20, of no fixed abode pleaded guilty to 1 burglary and received 2 years imprisonment

 

A 17-year-old from Kingston pleaded guilty to HSG (3 vehicles) and received a 3-month supervision order and 200 hours Community Service.

 

Oliver Pendry, 20, of Acacia Grove New Malden pleaded guilty to HSG (vehicle) and received 2 years 3 months years imprisonment.

 

A 17-year-old from Kingston pleaded guilty to 1 Burglary and Aggravated Vehicle Taking and received 2 years 9 months imprisonment.

 

In addition, Glody Salumu, 18, of Langley Road, Surbiton pleaded guilty to 1 Burglary, 1 Attempted Burglary and 1 HSG (vehicle) and will be sentenced in July.

 

Detective Inspector John Harnwell, of the South West Area Crime Squad, said: "The convictions illustrate the Metropolitan Police Service's determination to disrupt organised crime. Officers worked tirelessly during this investigation - this included analysing over 85,000 phone calls to bring the culprits to justice. As a result, nine career criminals have been taken off the streets and are facing a considerable amount of time behind bars."

 

Detective Superintendant Fran Smith, South West Area, said: "This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of boroughs working flexibly together to bring about the conviction of organised criminals, in a way that would be beyond the capability of a single borough. Without doubt this has been a successful operation and our communities are safer as a consequence."

 

• Car Theft Gang Jailed (617.5 KB)