Staying Safe: Crime Prevention Duidance

Please Note: A number of people get distracted, so please be mindful of your surroundings whether you are in a store, restaurant, standing at a bus stop, at an ATM machine, or just walking around window shopping etc. Please do not leave bags on pushchairs or prams. 

The following are commonly reported tactics used:

Small talk – suspects often begin engaging in polite conversations with victims by asking questions such as where they are from, who they know from a certain area, what type of phone they have etc. Please avoid withdrawing substantial amounts of cash from your bank whenever possible. Suspects tend to listen and wait for victims to leave the bank and usually distract them before relieving them of their cash which is usually placed in an envelope by bank staff. Preferably have someone else with you whenever possible.

WHAT IS CUCKOOING?

Is a process where people target the homes of vulnerable adult’s resulting in them losing control of their property? The property may then be used for a criminal purpose, including drug dealing, sexual crime and storing weapons or stolen goods.

The usual targets are those who suffer from drug addiction, mental health, and or alcohol addiction. Those who are struggling financially, the elderly, people, and individuals with learning disabilities.

If it is a council or housing association property, please inform them too.

If you have any concern’s, please call 101 or CRIMESTOPPERS anonymously on 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-uk.ord/