Two charged in connection with thefts from vehicles

Two men have been charged in connection with a series of thefts from vehicles in Welwyn Hatfield.

Since mid-March, police had been receiving numerous reports of vehicle windows being smashed and possessions stolen from inside. The offences had been occurring across the borough, with the majority happening in Hatfield.

The Welwyn Hatfield Neighbourhood Policing Team worked hard to trace those responsible and to try and stop more offences.

Officers scoured CCTV and conducted house-to-house enquiries. An operation was launched to locate and arrest two suspects.

Two men were arrested yesterday (Tuesday 14 April).

Michael Forbes, aged 39, of no fixed abode in Welwyn Hatfield, was arrested in Bishops Rise after he was spotted by a plain clothes officer on patrol. Forbes has been charged with theft from a motor vehicle, threats to kill (against a police officer) and assaulting a police officer.

He was remanded in custody and has also been recalled to prison.

Jake Payne, aged 37, of Errington Close in Hatfield, was arrested outside his home. He was charged with theft from a motor vehicle, going equipped for theft, possession of a knife/bladed article in a public place and common assault against an emergency worker. Officers seized a kitchen knife and a hacksaw.

Inspector Robert Wilson, from the Welwyn Hatfield Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This spate of crime caused huge distress to a number of residents so I hope this news provides reassurance. We remain committed to tackling this type of offending and continuing to work proactively to keep people safe.”

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