Shoppers warned to be on guard

Nov 20 2008 by Paul James, The Journal

CHRISTMAS shoppers are being warned to be on their guard against opportunist thieves. Northumbria Police yesterday launched a crime prevention campaign urging families not to forget the simple safety steps they normally take during the rush to prepare for the festive period.

Officers joined staff in Gateshead’s MetroCentre to highlight how keeping your bags, cars and homes secure could ensure criminals don’t ‘steal Christmas’.

Letters are being sent to criminals with records for theft and shoplifting, warning them that officers are watching them. Patrols are also being stepped up by neighbourhood police and community support officers in town and city centres and will be looking out for people who have left their handbags open or valuables on display in cars. Deputy Chief Constable Sue Sim said Christmas was a time when opportunist thieves would be looking to strike.

Mrs Sim said: “The types of crimes we’re focusing on are upsetting at any time of year but it’s particularly distressing in the run-up to Christmas when people see their hard-earned cash or gifts bought for others disappear into a thief’s hands.

“Unfortunately some people – criminals – look on Christmas as a time of opportunity. Crowded streets, shops, pubs, restaurants, buses and trains can make it all too easy for thieves to take people unawares.

“People are rushing round with their last-minute preparations. They let their guard down and become more vulnerable. We want to make sure people don’t have an unhappy Christmas by being a victim of crime.

“We’re going to make it difficult for criminals to have a good time at someone else’s expense. If they’re out there trying to spoil people’s Christmas, we will spoil theirs.”

MetroCentre general manager Barry Turnbull said: “It’s very emotional to have anything stolen at this time of year, particularly when it’s crime involving cars, and it’s so easy to protect yourself.” A dedicated police team is based in the MetroCentre, and Insp Paul Bentley said he was looking forward to welcoming the extra shoppers in the coming weeks. He said: “This is a really safe place to visit and shop. We do have offenders and we will be targeting those offenders.

“We’re just telling people to have the presence of mind to be vigilant in terms of their own goods.”