Putting vehicle criminals in reverse

Putting vehicle criminals in reverse

Dear Resident, 

Between 28 and 30 September, we carried out a three-day operation focused on tackling vehicle crime, pursuing offenders and helping residents protect their property.

The operation brought together teams across Thames Valley Police and delivered significant results. Officers made 10 arrests, including suspects wanted for theft from motor vehicles, theft of motor vehicles, multiple warrants for failing to attend court and individuals recalled to prison.

Proactive patrols also led to 3 positive stop searches, resulting in evidence being recovered and offences identified. Officers completed 2 Out of Court Disposals, while 3 offenders were charged and remanded for theft and vehicle crime-related offences. Plus, our Rural Crime Taskforce also recovered and seized a number of stolen vehicles, including stolen caravans, helping reunite victims with their property and further disrupt offenders.

The operation was not just about enforcement. Neighbourhood Policing Teams conducted prevention activity across the area, including community engagement events, online engagement, targeted leaflet drops and the distribution of vehicle security advice and Faraday pouches. 

Top tips for keeping your vehicles safe include: 

Detective Sergeant Wheatman, who coordinated the operation, said:

"Vehicle crime is far from victimless. Whether it is a stolen vehicle, damage caused during a break-in or the loss of personal belongings, the impact can be significant.

Vehicle crime operations allow us to focus resources on identifying offenders, disrupting criminal activity and protecting our communities. The arrests, charges and intelligence gathered will support ongoing investigations and future enforcement activity.

We would also encourage motorists to take simple crime prevention steps. Lock vehicles, remove valuables from sight and consider additional security measures such as steering locks and Faraday pouches for keyless entry vehicles."

And while vehicle criminals may think they are staying one step ahead, this operation showed that when it comes to protecting local communities, Thames Valley Police is determined to keep them firmly in the rear-view mirror.