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Police are appealing for help in tracing a 28-year-old man who is wanted for questioning in connection with the murder of 66-year-old Peter Avis at his home address in Bury St Edmunds on Friday 13 January. Enquiries into the incident are continuing and detectives are now keen to question 28-year-old Pyotr Melaniuk in connection with the incident. Mr Melaniuk, who is Polish, is also thought to go by the names Irek Marciewicz, Pyotr Kelaniuil, Kamil Wislak and Ireneusz Melaniuk. He is described as white, 5'6" tall, slim to medium build, with short hair. A distinguishing feature is that the two middle fingers of his right hand above the knuckles are missing together with the thumb from the same hand. He also has tattoos on his hands and a spider tattoo on his right arm. Melaniuk is known to have connections to North London and Brighton and whilst it is thought that he could be in either of these areas it is possible that he could be elsewhere in the country. Over the past few days police have undertaken extensive enquiries and are working with other forces to locate and apprehend Melaniuk, but detectives are now appealing for help from the public in a bid to locate him. Detective Superintendent Julian Gregory, Head of the Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team, said; “We would like to hear from anyone who may have seen Melaniuk recently or, more importantly, anyone with information about where he is now. I would stress that if anyone does see Melaniuk or someone they suspect to be him, they should not approach him but should call police immediately using 999 if necessary. We would like to reassure the public that we are working closely with other forces to apprehend this man as soon as possible.”
Officers are asking anyone who may have seen him or who may have information about where he is now to call the Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team on 0800 096 1011 (or 0207 158 0126 if calling from abroad). Alternatively Suffolk Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Secure your sheds

Verity Line, Babergh Crime Reduction Officer for Suffolk Police said ‘Smaller homes mean some items may have to be stored in the outside of the home in a shed, garage, container or workshop and we therefore want to remind everyone of the importance of securing these buildings and keeping your possessions safe’.

‘We have seen a number of burglaries recently in the Babergh District where outbuildings, including garages and containers, have been targeted. Sometimes for the simple reason that they haven’t been locked and as such left insecure and vulnerable to an opportunistic thief. For that reason we are urging all homeowners to keep their possessions safe by following the simple guidelines set out below’

Ø Fix mesh or bars on the inside of windows
Ø Fit good quality locks to all doors. Padlocks should be of hardened steel and be of a close shackled type (which reduces the risk of bolt cropping)
Ø Install a ‘Garage Defender’ or additional bolts on garage up and over doors to increase security
Ø Screws should be bolted through the hinges and reinforced at the back with a steel plate or washer, and hasps should have concealed screws
Ø Consider installing a battery operated outbuilding alarm, which sounds 120 db when activated, or upgrade your existing house alarm to include any outbuildings.
Ø ALWAYS remember to shut and lock doors and windows when the outbuilding is not in use. Crime only takes a minute to commit.
Ø Secure all items that could easily be removed. You could use Ground Locks and anchors, particularly for expensive items like ride-on lawn mowers or quad bikes. Or install a secure locked cage inside the outbuilding for power tools.
Ø Property mark all items, and advertise the fact this has been done by using signage or stickers. Take photos of any valuable items and record all serial numbers. Keep an inventory and register items with a serial number online at www.immobilise.com for FREE.
Ø Install security lights to illuminate your garden and to deter potential offenders
Ø Contact the Police immediately if you see anything suspicious.

Outbuilding alarms and property marking pens can be purchased from Sudbury, Hadleigh and Capel Police Stations at £8 and £1 each respectively.

For further information and security advice please dial 101 and ask for your local Crime Reduction Officer.

Police Direct Team

Police warning over Key safes

Home security is a matter of concern for every property owner, as is the safety of elderly and vulnerable relatives or neighbours who may live alone. For those who are dependent on family members or health workers, they may use a key safe box.

A key safe is a box used to store keys externally, usually used for legitimate access to a home when the occupant is either too frail or simply unable to open the door to their home themselves. It may be because they are ill or cannot get up.

In recent weeks there have been a small number of incidents in the Babergh District of Suffolk where key safe boxes have been broken into and then the key used to enter the house.

Verity Line, Crime Reduction Officer for Suffolk Police said: “There are a number of key safe products on the market now but we would urge anyone looking to purchase one that the product reaches ‘secure by design’ status, which focuses on design and security, as well as the acknowledgement of quality of security products.

“To maintain the security certification the box needs to be mounted on a brick wall and make use of all the masonry screws supplied with the product.”

Suffolk Police is encouraging people who already own a key safe box to contact the company who made or installed the key safe directly, if they have any questions or concerns.

If you find your key safe product missing or opened without the key, please report it to the police as soon as possible and change your locks immediately to ensure no one can enter your home using your key.

For further information on key safes or general home security advice please call 101 and ask to speak with your local Crime Reduction Officer.

Police Direct Team

This Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter has been sent to you by an automated E Mail, please note this facility does not accept messages in return.
FRIDAY 13th JANUARY 2012
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL

Well the long awaited 2012 is here and I wish you all a Happy and a prosperous New Year.

Lets start the year on a positive note by letting you all know that for the 5th year in a row the total number of crimes recorded in Suffolk has fallen.

Even better news is that the total number of crimes recorded during 2010/11 is the lowest for a decade.

There has been a fall in anti social behaviour, across the whole of Suffolk by 8%, or in real terms a reduction of more than 3,000 incidents.

A 5% reduction in criminal damage.

Rowdy or inconsiderate behaviour has fallen by 10% - that's more than 2,000 incidents.

This has resulted in 92% of Suffolk residents teling us they feel safe in their local area.

But we cannot be complacent and the police need your help to keep Suffolk one of the safest counties to live in.

Your eyes and ears out there can be invaluable to the police

You know who lives where and who is a stranger in your area!

You have a good idea when you see someone hanging around, whether or not they are waiting for something, or acting suspiciously!

You know when that little instinct inside tells you that a person who knocks on your door doesn’t seem right!

You know when the same vehicle seems to have driven up and down your road a number of times within the space of a short time that it doesn’t seem right!

Please in 2012, if you see or hear something suspicious, especially in the early hours of the morning, don’t ignore it, or think that someone else will report it.

The police would sooner several callers report incidents, than receive no information at all.

YOUR INFORMATION IS VALUABLE AND ALWAYS GRATEFULLY RECEIVED.

POLICE APPEAL FOR VIGILANCE AND INFORMATION

No sooner have I just said how your information can be so valuable, here is a Police appeal for vigilance and information.

Suffolk Police are asking Neighbourhood Watch members to be aware of incidents that have been occurring recently on bridges on the A12 and A14.

So far a total of 22 motorists have been affected by debris thrown from bridges in 8 separate incidents on the A12 and the A14. There appears to be no pattern to these incidents and no set times when these are occurring. There are 32 bridges on the A12 and A14 and 8 of these bridges have been identified as high risk.

The police are requesting NHW members to be vigilant whilst out driving or walking near bridges across these major routes and to report anything that they feel may be suspicious by dialling 999.

The police have increased patrols across the identified bridges and have asked all partner agencies such as the County and District Councils to park marked vehicles on these bridges during down times. Other agencies such as the AA and RAC have also agreed to assist. Where CCTV is in place this is also being used to cover bridges.

On a more positive note, Suffolk Police have identified and formally interviewed two boys in relation to stones being thrown from a main road and damaging vehicles, with regard to a number of incidents which occurred near to a bridge on the A14 at Trimley St Mary on Thursday 15 December.

The two boys both aged 8 years and from the Felixstowe area have been interviewed by officers and both admitted their involvement in objects being thrown at vehicles.

For further details on this subject click on the following link: form Two 8 year olds interviewed regarding projectiles being thrown by an A14 bridgein Trimley St Mary

Remember the new telephone number for non emergency calls is 101, alternatively you can contact us or provide information using our on-line form contact Suffolk Police on-line form

If you would prefer to give information anonymously, please contact crimestoppers

TEENAGE VOLUNTEER POLICE CADETS IN SUFFOLK

At Martlesham Police headquarters In October 2011, a group of teenagers aged between 13 and 16 years volunteered to become Police Cadets.

I am pleased to say they passed out on 22nd December after completing a nine-week development programme.

The idea of introducing Volunteer Police Cadets came about from Assistant Chief Constable Paul Marshall who was also a Police Cadet when he initially joined the police service.

The scheme is an initiative to give young people the confidence to attend community events and initiatives and where possible assist Safer Neighbourhood Teams with high profile events such as the Suffolk Show and charity events.”

During their time as Cadets they will be working towards nationally recognised awards, which will enhance their confidence, skills and hopefully their future career prospects.

They will help and assist in the community by getting involved in stewarding in local events such as fairs, town shows, carnivals and other local events, they will also be able to attend high profile, low risk events such as the Suffolk Show and charity events. Plans are also underway to introduce a week’s camp in the summer.

Further Cadet Units are planned to be rolled out across the County in Ipswich, Lowestoft and Bury St Edmunds during 2012.

For further details on this subject click on the following link: Teenage volunteer police cadets in Suffolk

CRIMES OF NOTE WITHIN YOUR AREA

Brantham
Criminal Damage - Brooklands rise, between 5pm on 09/12/11 and 8am on 12/12/11, offenders entered the grounds of a local school and ripped the cover of an external swimming pool. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to the Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) Martlesham Heath, Police HQ and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1948.

Burstall
Theft of A Motor Vehicle- Sproughton Corner, between 7pm and 9.20pm on 12/01/12, offenders forced entry into a residential garage and removed a black Honda motor bike and a grey and silver Hardrock mountain bike. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to PC Neil Jones at Hadleigh Police Response, Hadleigh Police station and quote Crime ref:HD/12/70.

Chelmondiston
Theft of A Motor Vehicle- St Andrews drive, between midday on 10/12/11 and 2am on 12/12/11, a Ford Fiesta, left parked on the street was broken into and stolen. The vehicle was subsequently located the next day abandoned within Ipswich. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to PC Julian Hollands at Ipswich Police Response, Ipswich Police station and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1939.

East Bergholt
Burglary - Gandish close, between 7pm on 04/01/12 and 6.50am on 05/01/12, offenders broke into a local pavilion, however, an internal alarm activated and the offenders fled. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to PC Jacqui Philpot from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/12/21.

Elmestt
Burglary - The Street, between 4.30pm on 09/12/11 and 7.40am on 12/12/11, offenders broke into a school and forced open a secured cabinet and removed a Toshiba laptop. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to PC Julian Hollands at Ipswich Police Response, Ipswich Police station and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1946.

Hadleigh
Theft - Market place, between 11.30am on 12/12/11 and 9.30am on 13/12/11, offenders removed a PVC banner that had been securely attached to the front of a local church. The banner read with the words “COMING SOON”. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Sgt Colin Curtis from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1857.

Arson - On Lady lane at around 7.30pm, 27/12/11, a wooden out building within the rear garden of a local property was set on fire. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Pc Matt Paisley from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/2014.

Theft of pedal cycle - High Street, between 2.30pm and 2.35pm on 06/01/12 a 12-year-old girl left her green Falcon bicycle resting against a shop window and when she returned a few minutes later it had been stolen. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to PCSO Julia Bignell from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/12/36.

Harkstead
Theft - Within Harkstead, between midday on 17/12/11 and 1.50pm on 19/12/11, offenders removed a heavy 3 foot tall wooden carved owl statue from the front of a local residence. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Sgt Colin Curtis from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1982.

Theft - High street, on 09/01/12, offenders drove up in a van outside a local charity shop and removed a number of bags of clothing that had been left outside and donated for the shop to sell. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to the Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) Martlesham Heath, Police HQ and quote Crime Ref: HD/12/53.

Holbrook
Theft of Heating Oil - On Five acres, between 6pm on 22/12/11 and 9am on 02/01/12, offenders siphoned around £45 worth of fuel from a Nissan Micra, left parked and unattended on the street. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Sgt Colin Curtis from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/12/14.

Pinewood - Ipswich
Burglary - Lacewing close, between 1pm and 5.45pm on 16/12/11, offenders broke into a residential property and removed various items of electrical equipment. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to DS Ann Naylor at Bury CID and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1970.

Attempted Burglary - Brimstone road, between 3.45pm and 5.50pm on 16/12/11, offenders attempted to force open a rear window at a local residential property. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to DS Ann Naylor at Bury CID and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1971.

Theft From a Motor Vehicle - On Minrow, between 4pm on 07/01/12 and 8am on 08/01/12, Offenders gained entry to a yellow Fiat, left parked within a residential parking bay and removed the vehicle’s Sony stereo and a pair of driving glasses. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Sgt Colin Curtis from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/12/51.

Nedging Tye
Theft of Heating Oil - On Ipswich road, between 10pm on 20/12/11 and 6.30pm on 21/12/11, offenders siphoned £400 worth of heating oil from a resident’s oil tank. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to the Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) Martlesham Heath, Police HQ and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1993.

Polstead
Theft - Stackwood road, between 10pm on 16/12/11 and 8.30am on 17/12/11, offenders removed a small quantity of money left on a local door step within an insecure tin that had been left as payment for local newspaper deliveries. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Sgt Colin Curtis from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1981.

Shotley
Theft of A Motor Vehicle- The street, between 2.30am and 3.15am on 11/12/11, a Ford Sierra, left parked on the street was broken into and stolen. The vehicle was subsequently located the next day abandoned within Ipswich. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to the Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) Martlesham Heath, Police HQ and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1936.

Sproughton
Criminal Damage - On Church lane, between 10.30am and 2.30pm on 28/12/11, an object was thrown at the front window of a local residence smashing a pane of glass. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Sgt Colin Curtis from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/2016.

Burglary x4- Sproughton Court, at around 10.30pm on 10/01/12, offenders broke into four residential garages and removed from one garage a unisex, silver Carrera mountain bike and a mans white Raleigh racing bike from another. It is not known at this stage if anything else was removed from the other two garages. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to PC Gary Austin station Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/12/61, 62, 64 & 65.

Stoke-by-Nayland
Theft From a Motor Vehicle x3 - At a Local car park in Park Street, between 4pm and 7.30pm on 04/01/12, Offenders smashed the rear windscreen of a Mercedes and the front passenger window of a Rover. A lap-top type bag was stolen from within the Mercedes, which contained various items of paperwork and a Tom Tom sat nav was stolen from the front console area of the Rover. Between 11am and 9.30pm that day within the same car park offenders’ further popped the drivers’ door lock of another Rover and removed a bag left on display within the front footwell. Calls in relation all these incidents should be made to PC Gary Austin from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/12/22, 24 & 25.

Woolverstone
Criminal Damage - On Main road, between 10.30pm on 19/12/11 and 7.30am on 20/12/11, offenders threw stones at the front of a local residence and smashed a number of windows. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Pc Gary Austin from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1984.

CRIME REDUCTION ADVICE

In Babergh as a whole there have been a number of theft of and from motor vehicles.

Regarding crime reduction advice around the theft from and security of motor vehicles, I have included the government web site, which not only gives advice regarding reducing the risk of theft from motor vehicles but also:

· What to do if your vehicle has been stolen.

· What to do if your vehicle has been cloned.

· Details on Vehicle identity checks, that can be made to check a vehicle’s history, such as to check the vehicle’s validity to be roadworthy.

· Theft resistant number plates.

· Reporting unlicensed vehicles online.

You can even if you wish carry out a practical driving theory test?

If you want to go to this site or know more, just click on the following link: Crime reduction details for reducing car crime

For further apsects of crime reduction advice you can if you wish click on any of the following links:

For advice on Home Security click on the following link: For further information on this subject click on the following link: Home Security Advice

For Personal Safety Advice click on the following link: Advice on Personal Safety

BEWARE OF ACCOMODATION FRAUD

With less than 200 days to go before the greatest sporting event this country has ever staged, Suffolk Police are urging members of the public to be careful when booking accommodation online for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Don’t get caught out by fraudsters, by making sure that any accommodation or tickets that you buy are genuine:

If using a travel company ensure they are a member of a trade body such as ABTA, the Travel Association or the Air Travel Organisers Licensing, (ATOL).

If you decide to book independently you should exercise caution. Establish if you are dealing directly with the property owner or a letting agent.

Research the property or hotel that you are booking - verify that the address exists through web searches and online maps. Do the images match those on the advert?

Check whether there are any reviews for the accommodation from previous visitors.

If dealing with the property owner ask them about the property and the area in detail. Can you confirm that what they tell you is accurate from your own research?

Research any agent that you are dealing with via an online search engine. Are there any reviews of the website or agent?

Does the website use the Padlock symbol to indicate the site is secure?

To sum up

Always check the terms and conditions

Confirm exactly what you are being sold.

Double check your booking before travel,
particularly if there is a long gap between making the booking and arrival.

CONTACTING YOUR LOCAL SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM

To speak to an officer from your local SNT, because they may well be out on patrol, the easiest option is to telephone the new national telephone number which is just 101.

This new number is applicable to any force you might want to contact through out England and Wales and will always put you through to the nearest Police headquarters switchboard to where you are calling from.

Because the initial option on calling will give you the option of speaking to the nearest recognised police control room, for those that live near to any other county borders such as Essex, you are also given the option of a number of forces, for which once you have pressed the relevant number you will then be immediately transferred to the Police HQ you required, you can then ask for the person you wanted to speak to, or you can ask to be put through to the Safer Neighbourhood Team for Babergh East

Or if you like you can email them directly through the following link:

Email: babergheast.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk

For further information about Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team, which includes various facts such as details of Team Members, covering your area; Priorities; Campaigns and Meetings, please choose the following link. Babergh East

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUFFOLK NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH CHAIRMAN - MR JIM HENSON

Police are urging residents to be alert for scams after being contacted by a woman in Gorleston.

On Thursday 12 January the woman received a call saying she had won a lottery - and that she would have to send a U-Cash money voucher once a cheque was received.

The female caller said the cheque would be coming from Lichtenstein and that she would call again to see if the woman had the money voucher.

This is believed to be a scam and the woman was advised that she should not send any money under these circumstances.

Police are renewing appeals for residents to be vigilant and to stop and think before responding to such calls. There are a number of similar scams via post and email which say you have won a prize but then ask you to send cash in order to claim it.

No genuine lottery or competition organisation operates in this manner - this is just a way to get you to part with your cash.

Do not respond - and never send money.

AND FINALLY JUST A FEW LINKS IN CASE YOU NEED THEM

A very happy and prosperous, safe and if possible crime free New Year to you all.

For those of you that do not know me, my name is James (Jim) Henson and as of May last year I became the Chairperson for Suffolk Neighbourhood Watch.

On Suffolk Neighourhood Watches behalf I regularly attend various regional and national Neighbourhood Watch meetings to represent the views and opinions of local coordinators and members.

I chair quarterly meetings within Suffolk where your local network chairs and any other members can attend to discuss how to promote Neighbourhood Watch schemes within Suffolk and to look at positive events to keep Neighbourhood Watch within the local Suffolk profile.

Previously meetings were always held within Mid Suffolk, however, in order to meet and obtain the views of the wider Neighbourhood Watch schemes within Suffolk, these meetings have now gone on the road and the plan this year is to hold them at different venues throughout Suffolk, to give all Neighbourhood Watch personnel the chance to attend and put their thoughts and views across.

Whilst you will have seen through this newsletter that crime has been reported to have gone down, metal theft has not. These heartless crimes have involved the theft of plaques from war memorials, gravestones and lead from churches. Other thefts have included the theft of cabling, which has then impacted on the daily lives of commuters and the use of the Internet.

I would like to encourage ALL Neighbourhood Watch personnel to please sign an online e-petition that can be found by clicking on the following link: epetitions for governmental lobby
aimed at tightening legislation around scrap metal dealerships.

I can assure you that a number of Neighbourhood Watch events are in the process of being planned for this year, especially around national Neighbourhood Watch week, which this year runs from 16-24 June 2012.

The details of which will be published as soon as arrangements have been finalised.

Finally I would just like to re-enforce the message at the beginning of this newsletter to PLEASE REPORT ANYTHING YOU DEEM AS SUSPICIOUS, further stating when you phone in that you are a Neighbourhood Watch member.

“Thank you all for your commitment to Neighbourhood Watch and may that commitment be fruitful in not only the reduction of crime, but also in bringing about more cohesive and integrated communities within the schemes that you live within."

Theft - Bramford

Two plastic picnic tables and chairs that were secured to paving slabs were stolen from the garden of a property on Paper Mill Lane in Bramford between 11.30pm Saturday 7th & 1am Sunday 8th January. Police would like to trace two men who were wearing black clothing, carrying torches and rucksacks, who were seen leaving the property at around 11.30pm. If you saw these two men or have any information about this theft please contact Mid Suffolk police by dialling 101 quoting reference ST/12/121

Objects being thrown from road bridges - Suffolk

Motorists travelling on the main routes through Suffolk are being asked to report any suspicious activity following a series of incidents in which objects have been thrown from road bridges.

Posters are being placed at a number of bridges over the A14 and A12 from Monday (January 9), bearing the message: Spot Anything Suspicious? Call 999.

The posters also have a bridge reference number, which motorists can quote to help the police arrive quickly on scene.

They are the latest response by the emergency services, local councils and the Highways Agency who are working together to tackle the issue.

Extra patrols are taking place in areas around bridges on the key routes in the county - and an investigation lead by a detective superintendent has been launched to catch those responsible.

Suffolk’s County Policing Commander, Chief Superintendent David Skevington, said:

“Our investigations are continuing into these incidents – and motorists using the key route network in Suffolk could provide us with important information.

“Hopefully, these signs will prompt motorists who see anything suspicious to get in touch immediately, after finding a safe place to stop and make a call to us.

“We are taking these crimes extremely seriously. Fortunately, no one has been injured in these incidents – but it goes without saying that throwing anything from a bridge onto a busy road has the potential to result in road traffic collisions causing serious injury – or even death."

The signs have been provided by the Highways Agency.

Dave Gingell, Highways Agency Regional Director in the East, said: “Safety on our roads is our top priority and we are doing everything we can to assist Suffolk Police in bringing these dangerous and irresponsible activities to an end.

“Arrangements are being made for the new posters to be put in place on 31 bridges crossing the A14 and A12 early next week and we would urge members of the public to report any suspicious activities to the Police without delay.”

Police Direct Team

Wanted Man - Update

Further to a message issued yesterday, Thursday 15th December, relating to a wanted 35 year-old male from Clacton-on-Sea - an arrest has now been made.

Thank you to all that assisted with this appeal.

Police Direct Team

Wanted Man - Hertfordshire

Police in Hertfordshire are appealing for information from members of the public on the whereabouts of a wanted man.

Daniel Olley, aged 35 and from Clacton-on-Sea in Essex, is wanted for an offence of theft of a number of high-value items from a woman in Hatfield. The offence took place during March 2010.

He is originally from Ferndale in Clacton, but he also has links to Chelmsford in Essex, Ipswich and Felixstowe in Suffolk, and Sittingbourne in Kent.

If members of the public have any information on his whereabouts, they should contact Hertfordshire Constabulary via non-emergency number 101.

Don't give burglars a Christmas present

Police are urging residents to secure their home this winter in a bid to ensure that thieves are not given any presents this Christmas or New Year.

With Christmas fast approaching many homes will be full of valuable gifts. Leaving your home unlocked, all in darkness and with valuables on view under the tree could mean an easy target for criminals.

Suffolk Police are today issuing their top 10 tips to beat the burglar and keep all your gifts safe.

Detective Superintendent Stuart Sedgwick says these simple precautions may be enough to significantly reduce the chances of your home being targeted.

“Winter often means an increase in burglaries as this gives criminals the cover of darkness and as most of us put lights on as soon as we get in, it’s can be easy for them to identify properties where there is no one at home.

“Victims of burglary sometimes make it easier still for the burglar with doors open, keys about, presents all in one place, bags left out to put it all in, car on drive ready to drive away. Therefore we are encouraging all residents to follow our tips and not give burglars an easy ride.

“We are also asking residents to keep an eye on your neighbours homes. Burglars wander around looking for chances. Our best opportunity of catching them in the act is for you to spot them before they break in. Wherever you live keep an eye out for strangers and please call 999 immediately if you see something unusual. This could be someone hanging around outside a property, someone carrying unboxed electrical goods or unusual items, such as heavy bags or pillowcases, or clambering over fences, etc.

“We would rather be called by a dozen people and find it is a false alarm than not be called at all.

"And if you hear about stolen property being offered or sold please tell us. One day it may be your property they’re trying to sell and under those circumstances you’d appreciate someone else giving us a call.

These are Suffolk Police’s top 10 tips to help prevent burglary:

1. Prevent access to rear of property (eg high lockable gates-walls, fences).

2. Fit British-standard five-lever Mortise locks (or UPVC equivalent) to all external doors.

3. Fit (and use) locks to all ground-floor windows and remove keys from locks.

4. Rear garden fencing/walls should be approximately 6ft, preferably with additional topping (eg trellis or plastic strips with conical points to make climbing difficult). Homeowners should pay particular attention to fences and walls that adjoin alleyways, footpaths or open land.

5. Reduce cash kept in the house to a minimum and ensure good quality jewellery is not left in jewellery boxes or dressing tables.

6. Security mark (with house number and postcode) desirable items (eg flatscreen televisions, laptops, mobile telephones and games consoles) and record details and photograph for reference in the event of theft.

7. Fit additional padlocks and hasps on garage doors-ensure no tools left out and garages and sheds locked.

8. Do not hide spare keys unsecured outside properties.

9. Use timer plugs to give the impression property is inhabited when empty.

10. Consider fitting a burglar alarm as a back up.

For more information about safeguarding your home and property you can contact your local police crime reduction officer on 101 or visit www.suffolk.police.uk.

Police are also keen to encourage new Neighbourhood Watch groups in Suffolk. To find out more about how to start one in your street contact your community watch liaison officer on 101.

Or

Please use the following link to pass any useful information to Suffolk Police about this incident.

http://www.suffolk.police.uk/safetyadvice/reportacrime/tellthepolice.aspx

DO NOT USE THIS LINK IN AN EMERGENCY OR IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES AN IMMEDIATE POLICE RESPONSE WHEN YOU SHOULD RING 999.

Police Direct Team

CRIMES OF NOTE IN OUR AREA

Chelmondiston

Theft - Hill Farm Lane, between 4pm on 18/10/11 and 10am on 20/10/11, a galvanised plant trailer stored in an open field has been stolen worth approximately £2,800. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Calls in relation to this incident should be made to the Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) MartleshamHeath, Police HQ and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1667.

Freston

Theft - Within Freston, between 6pm 25/10/11 and 5.50pm 27/10/11, a quantity of lead was removed from a local roof. Calls in relation to these events should be made to PC Gary Austin from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1723

Holbrook

Criminal Damage - Fen view, between 3.25pm and 4.15pm on 20/10/11, a projectile was thrown at the front of a residential property, smashing the outer pane of a new PVC window. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to the Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) Martlesham Heath, Police HQ and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1668.

Criminal Damage - Clench road, between 3pm on 19/10/11 and 2.30pm on 21/10/11, the front bonnet of a vehicle sustained a 4” deep scratch mark, whilst left parked and secured on a residential driveway. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to the Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) Martlesham Heath, Police HQ and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1694.

Shotley

Criminal Damage - Queensland, between 10pm on 03/11/11 and 8am on 03/11/11, the rear wing of a black Ford Fiesta, left parked and secured on a residential driveway was badly scratched. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Sgt Colin Curtis from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1754.

Interference with a Motor Vehicle - The Street, 10pm on 04/11/11 and 7.30am on 05/11/11, the driver’s door of a white Ford Sierra was forced, however nothing was apparently stolen. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Sgt Colin Curtis from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1756.

Shotley Gate

Criminal Damage x2- Lower Harlings, projectiles were thrown at the near side front passenger windows of two vehicles each parked on separate residential driveways, smashing the windows in the process. The first incident happened at around 7.50pm on 03/11/11 and the second between 00.45am and 1.45am on 06/11/11. Calls in relation to these incidents should be made to Sgt Colin Curtis from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1747 & 1763.

Theft from a Conveyance - At the local Marina, between 3pm on 28/10/11 and 10am on 28/10/11, the hatch of a moored boat was forced and a Marine lock knife and a Grundig emergency radio were removed from within. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to PCSO Jo Adams from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1809.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFTS

Suffolk Police are appealing for drivers to be vigilant following a rise in the number of thefts of catalytic converters.

Catalytic converters are being removed from utility vehicles and vans parked in a variety of locations.

Crime Reduction Officer Bernard Plume has the following advice -

Private vehicles should be kept in a well-secured garage where possible, and if no garage is available, in a well-lit, public area.

Vehicles can be parked in such a way as to make access to the catalytic converter difficult, or parallel with another vehicle if you own one. The Converter itself can be secured with a clamp and anti tamper alarms are available.

Commercial vehicles should also be kept in a locked building or compound, supported by alarms, lighting and CCTV.

Catalytic converters can be marked with etching or UV pens, and with SmartWater, which is an invisible liquid with a unique formula that forensically proves where the marked item comes from. Regular marking sessions are held across the county please contact your local Crime Reduction Officer or Safer Neighbourhood Team for details of these and current security methods.

Suffolk Police are working with scrap metal dealers across the county and officers visit yards to ensure checks are made on all metals brought to the sites for sale, and that any suspicious items or persons are reported.

Any persons or vehicles seen acting suspiciously around other vehicles should be reported to police on 101 or please dial 999 if a crime is in progress.

INSECURITI​ES CAN LEAD TO BURGLARIES

Suffolk Police is reminding people in Babergh to lock their doors and windows following a spate of burglaries in the area.

Since the beginning of May there have been 20 house burglaries due to insecurities.

Many of the burglaries could have been prevented if a few simple steps to secure the property had been made.

Police are urging all homeowners to take simple precautions in order to minimise the chances of homes being targeted.

Verity Line Suffolk Police Crime Reduction Officer for the Babergh district said: “By leaving your home unlocked – during the day or night – and not checking your car is locked you make life easy for criminals. Breaking into a home or car often creates noise, usually takes longer and carries the risk of injury to the offender. It also increases the chances of them being caught, either in the act or through forensic traces.

“There seems to be a sense, particularly in rural areas of the county but often in our towns too, that there is no need to lock vehicles or homes. While in some respects it’s pleasing to see that people feel safe enough to leave their vehicles and homes unlocked, the reality is that we are making it very easy for criminals to steal our personal possessions.

“The misery and distress caused by burglars cannot be under-estimated. We are committed to finding those responsible and putting them before the courts.

“Locking doors and windows is just one of the simple steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of being targeted by opportunist burglars and thieves.“

Other things you can do include:

· Record serial numbers of valuable items and take photographs of them. This helps police to identify the items if they are recovered and can help prove cases of burglary, theft and handling stolen goods.

· Property mark your postcode onto all valuable items with a permanent marker, UV pen or with a property marking solution from companies such as Smartwater, SelectaDNA or Crimestoppers – digital cameras, videos, DVDs, camcorders, mobile phones, etc, can all be marked in this way.

· With the dark nights approaching make it look as though someone is home. Put your lights on timers, put a radio on a talk station – both can make it appear as though more than one person is home and therefore makes your home a less appealing prospect for a burglar.

· Remember to lock all outbuildings. Shed alarms, along with property marking pens, can be purchased quite cheaply from all police stations and can provide a highly audible warning that can alert you to any break-in and make it uncomfortable for the burglar to continue.

· Consider installing obvious security measures – CCTV, alarms, security lighting can be effective deterrents and don’t have to cost a fortune.

Anyone who would like more advice on protecting their home, vehicle and other property can contact their local Crime Reduction Officer at Suffolk Police by calling 101.

Police are also asking that you call if you see anyone acting suspiciously. Please try to note the description of the person you are suspicious of, including clothing, and then contact police immediately using 999.

Police Direct Team

Darker nights are here - don’t advertise your home to thieves

With clocks going back at the weekend (Sunday 30 October), and darkness descending earlier in the day, residents are being encouraged to play their part by switching on to some simple crime prevention tactics.

Chief Inspector Kerry Cutler from Suffolk Constabulary’s Community Safety Department said: “Leaving your house in total darkness is a sure sign no-one’s at home and an invitation to burglars.

“Burglars look for quick win opportunities; they don’t want to run the risk of a confrontation so simply leaving a light on to give the impression someone is at home is often enough to deter them.

“Timer switches can also be fitted to operate radios and lights if you’re not back from work until after dark or if you’re away for a few days.

“Leaving a light on costs literally pence in electricity – and that pales into insignificance compared to the hundreds of pounds in insurance excess you might have to pay should your home be broken in to.

“A high proportion of all break-ins are as a result of properties being left insecure so checking all windows and doors are locked before leaving the house is crucial.

“Other home security essentials are to use your burglar alarm if you have one – it’s amazing how many households don’t bother – and also to never leave a spare key under the doormat or a flowerpot. Burglars will always look there first so it’s not much of a ‘hiding place’.”

The Trick to Having a Happy Halloween

Trick or treaters across Suffolk are being urged by police to take a responsible attitude to Halloween this year and ensure that it is a happy and safe time for everyone, whether young or old.

In the run up to Halloween, officers from Safer Neighbourhood Teams are visiting local schools with the aim of educating pupils on how to behave responsibly within the community. SNTs are also working with shops, asking them to display posters stating that flour and eggs will not be sold to under-16's who are not accompanied by an adult in the run up to Halloween.

Halloween celebrations often involve young people taking part in trick or treat activities. Unfortunately, in previous years this has involved a minority of youngsters across the county throwing eggs and flour at houses or people after the occupants decline to give them a treat. Any damage caused by egg throwing will be treated as criminal damage, and those caught throwing eggs will be prosecuted. If they are found guilty this will result in a criminal record.

Another poster being handed out asks parents to think about the safety of their children and asks if they would normally let their children call on a stranger’s home unsupervised.

If you don’t want to be bothered by trick or treaters this Halloween, please find the attached poster to place in the front door or window of your home, or that of a vulnerable neighbour or relative. Copies of this poster can be collected from your local police station or can be downloaded by visiting the Suffolk Police website www.suffolk.police.uk or via our Facebook page www.facebook.com/suffolkpolice . It is hoped that the privacy of those people who clearly indicate that they do not wish to be involved in Halloween will be respected and trick or treaters will move on.

Chief Inspector Kerry Cutler said, “We are not trying to spoil the fun of Halloween but we would like trick or treaters to recognise that some people, particularly the elderly or vulnerable, might be distressed by strangers knocking at their door during the evening. So we are asking people not to call at houses displaying this poster.

“Extra patrols will be in place throughout the county, with the primary aim being to make sure that the evening is peaceful and the number of disturbances are kept to a minimum. We want to ensure that Halloween is a happy and safe time for everyone, whether young or old. Therefore, not only are we appealing to the younger members of the community to act responsibly, but also to the general public to be a little more tolerant of the high spirits of people celebrating the event.”

Police are offering the following top tips to parents and young people, to help everyone enjoy their evening without causing distress or alarm to others:
· Always be accompanied by an adult when you are trick-or-treating.
· You should only go to houses of people that you know and who are happy for you to call.
· Stay safe, keep to places that you know and are well lit. Do not take short cuts through gardens, alleyways or parks.
· Watch out for traffic - drivers might not see you.
· If you are wearing a mask make sure that you can see where you are going and are aware of your surroundings.
· Carry a torch and a fully charged mobile phone (if you have one).
Suffolk Police would urge all our residents to report any incidents of anti-social behaviour on the run up to Halloween to the police on 01473 613500. This will allow us to provide the best possible response to any emerging issues in your area.

Please pass this message on to as many people as possible. Your assistance is appreciated.

Police Direct Team

29th Sept 2011 Finance telephone scam

Suffolk Police is warning members of the public to remain vigilant after a number of people have been in contact in relation to a telephone scam.

Police have been contacted by residents who have received a cold call from someone offering a personal loan. Often they will claim to be from the Ministry of Finance, Money Saving Expert or a loan company but in all instances they are not genuine.

The caller will ask for the victim to send them a fee in the form of a Ukash voucher code by email or over the telephone. The company will then contact the victim on further occasions asking for more fees but inevitably the loan never arrives.

Ukash vouchers can be purchased from high street shops using cash and can then be used online rather than providing bank or credit card details. They are never genuinely used as advanced fee payment for loans or other similar products. They are simply designed for the purchase of goods from the Internet or other retailers. Anyone offering a genuine loan will not ask for a cash payment up front for the service.

Police are urging residents not to provide voucher details or any other personal details to a third-party, especially those who are cold-calling. They should be treated with as much security as debit or credit card details.

Fraudsters will try anything to get you to part with your cash so if you receive any unsolicited calls from people asking you for cash or voucher details then please do not give it to them.

Further details and security advice can be found on the Ukash website at http://www.ukash.com/uk/en/home.aspx or you can contact Suffolk Constabulary on 01473 613500.

27th Sept 2011

Bogus Phone calls

I received a call from a 'representative' of BT, informing me that he was disconnecting me because of an unpaid bill. He demanded payment immediately of £31.00 or it would be £118.00 to re-connect at a later date.

The guy wasn't even fazed when I told him I was with Virgin Media, allegedly VM have to pay BT a percentage for line rental!

I asked the guy's name - he gave me the very 'English' John Peacock with a very 'African' accent - & phone number - 0800 0800 152.

Obviously the fellow realized I didn't believe his story, so offered to demonstrate that he was from BT. I asked how & he told me to hang up & try phoning someone - he would dis-connect my phone to prevent this. AND HE DID !!

My phone was dead - no engaged tone, nothing - until he phoned me again.

Very pleased with himself, he asked if that was enough proof that he was with BT. I asked how the payment was to be made and he said credit card, there and then.

I said that I didn't know how he'd done it, but I had absolutely no intention of paying him, I didn't believe his name or that he worked for BT.

He hung up.
I dialed 1471 - number withheld
I phoned his fictitious 0800 number - not recognized., so I phoned the police to let them know. I wasn't the first! It's only just started apparently, but it is escalating.

Their advice was to let as many people as possible know of this scam. The fact that the phone does go off would probably convince some people it's real, so please make as many friends & family aware of this.

How is it done?

This is good but not that clever.. He gave the wrong number - it should have been 0800 800 152 which takes you through to BT Business.

The cutting off of the line is very simple, he stays on the line with the mute button on and you can't dial out - but he can hear you trying (This is because the person who initiates a call is the one to terminate it). When you stop trying he cuts off and immediately calls back.

You could almost be convinced!

The sad thing is that it is so simple that it will certainly fool the elderly and vulnerable.

By the way this is not about getting the cash as this would not get past merchant services - it is all about getting the credit card details which include the security number so that it can be used for far larger purchases.

Andy ORPIN
Police Community Support Officer

11 Sept 2011

Local Crimes

Holbrook Area
Cruelty to Animals - The Street, between 9am on 01/08/11 and 9am on 01/09/11, a local resident’s cat had an air pellet embedded in its leg, having been shot at some stage by an offender using an air gun. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to the Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) Martlesham Heath, Police HQ and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1383.

Theft From a Motor Vehicle - Five Acres, between 11am 02/09/11 and 11am on 05/09/11, a Catalytic Converter was removed from a silver Ford Ranger, left parked and unattended at the rear of a local residence. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to PCSO Jo Adams from Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team and quote Crime Ref: HD/11/1399.

SPEEDING MOTORISTS CAUGHT IN RECENT SUFFOLK WIDE ENFORCEMENT CAMPAIGN

More than 1300 motorists were caught speeding in Suffolk during a week-long European speed enforcement campaign in the county between Monday 22 and Sunday 28 August.

The campaign, lead by Tispol - the European Traffic Police Network, saw an increased amount of checks and enforcement throughout Suffolk. This resulted in 1171 people being caught speeding by police officers.

A further 197 were caught by fixed cameras, totalling 1368 motorists in total.

In a similar campaign in April this year over 1500 motorists were caught speeding and during the same campaign last August the figure was around 1450.

Speeding remains one of the main causation factors of fatal and serious injury collisions. In 2010 twenty people died on Suffolk’s roads and in six of these incidents speeding was identified as being a contributory factor. In 2009 speeding was a contributing factor in half of road deaths in the county.

Between 5.00pm on 6th and 10am on 7th December. Unknown offenders gained entry to an insecure garage in Bristol Hill, Shotley Gate and stole a Saracen mountain bike. A vehicle located within the garage was also damaged during the incident.

Owners are reminded to keep their property secure at all times and to remove items of value from within.

Were you in the Bristol Hill area overnight 6/7th December? If so did you see or hear anything unusual or suspicious? If you have any information relating to this incident please contact Ipswich Police on 01473 613500 quoting reference HD/08/2052.

or

Please use this link to pass any useful information to Suffolk Police about this incident.

DO NOT USE THIS LINK IN AN EMERGENCY OR IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES AN IMMEDIATE POLICE RESPONSE WHEN YOU SHOULD RING 999.

Police Direct Team