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Gnosall Parish Council           

 (Including the wards of Moreton and Knightley)                                   

 

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Secure your vehicle - spate of vehicle thefts

Police are urging owners of keyless entry cars and high-performance vehicles to protect themselves from theft following a spate across the county.

Thieves are targeting high-value performance vehicles such as Audi, Mercedes, BMW and Fords which are left parked on driveways or in the street.The majority of thefts occur overnight and the cars targeted tend to be only a  few years old.We would issue the following advice:• Keeping all keys out of sight and away from doors and windows• Installing a home security system and setting an intruder alarm at night• Installing and activating a tracking device on your vehicle• Install good outside lighting• Check if your keyless entry fob can be turned off. If it can, and your dealer can also confirm this, then do so overnight.• Store your keys away from household entry points and windows. Keeping your keyless entry fob out of sight is not enough – thieves only need to gain proximity to the key to amplify the signal. Drivers are also being urged to keep both sets of keys in a faraday cage or pouch which blocks the signal from the fob. Keep an eye out for suspicious activity in your neighbourhood – and report anything unusual to the Police.

ADVICE: Have a crime-free Christmas

When you're out shopping

  • Stay alert and be aware of what's going on around you.
  • Keep valuables in inside pockets of clothing or bags.
  • Only carry the cash and cards that you need. Always shield the PIN pad when entering your PIN.
  • Avoid going back to your car to leave your shopping part-way through your trip. If you have to keep presents in the car, make sure they are out of view in the boot, the car is locked, and keep the receipts with you.
  • Deter pickpockets and muggers. Don't overburden yourself with bags/packages. Be extra careful with purses and wallets.      Always carry a purse close to your body and not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front trouser pocket, likewise with your phone and keys.
  • Shopping with children? Make sure they learn to go to a store attendant or security guard if you get separated.
  • Never leave your bag unattended on your trolley whilst shopping and don’t leave it in your vehicle when returning your trolley.

At home

Never keep large amounts of cash at home.

  • Make sure you keep your doors and windows locked at all times.
  • Keys should always be kept out of sight and not left indoors or in view of windows.
  • Make your house look occupied, use a timer switch to operate lamps as it starts to get dark, leave a radio on.
  • Don’t open the door to anybody you don’t recognise. Not sure? Don’t open the door!

ALERT: Increase of purse thefts

Staffordshire Police have received several reports over the county of purse thefts over the Christmas shopping period.

It's easy for pick-pockets and shoplifters to conceal themselves amongst the crowds in shopping areas at this busy time of year.

Often working in pairs or groups, pickpockets will use various ways to lift your purse or wallet out of your pocket or bag.

One can purposely bump into you, or sometimes distract you while another will adeptly help themselves to your money and cards. You won't feel them stealing from you.

Don't put your money or wallet in a back pocket. Carry your bag close to you and so it opens facing you, keep a hand on it.

Don't leave bags on a shopping trolley, wheelchair, motorised scooter, or pushchairs.

ADVICE: Protect your property

REMINDER: 

Burglars are busy at this time of year. Make sure your Christmas presents go to those they intended for and....

- Keep presents and valuables securely stowed and out of sight 

- Lock windows and doors

- Keep sheds and garages secure 

- Avoid leaving your house darkness - leave lights on and TV's, radios where possible

- Make your property and register it through immobilise.com 

- Invest in security lighting 

- Set your alarms

- Look out for your neighbours

- Report any suspicious activity 

Keep safe this Christmas!

for more information visit https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/crimeprevention 

My Staffs App - Advice & Support

The police are often asked for advice and support, and there is often expectation from members of the

public for us to provide all of the answers. We are not always best placed and are not always the right service to answer some of these questions.

MyStaffs is an online portal for people to access all sorts of services - council, police, fire and voluntary services, where members of the public can report issues such as abandoned vehicles, road defects, fly tipping, noise complaints, etc., and also pay fines, and find all sorts of advice and information for themselves.  

Drug and alcohol advice

  • Benefits support
  • Domestic abuse service and support
  • Mental health support
  • Voluntary and charitable organisations
  • Things to do – Leisure activities, community groups, lunch clubs
  • Volunteering, community, befriending groups and activities
  • Housing, financial, and legal advice
  • Health and wellbeing services
  • Children’s services
  • Parenting services
  • Keeping safe and crime prevention advice

This tool offers a multitude of services easily accessible in one place. We encourage familiarisation and use of this application, as it can provide you with lots of information to support and services across Staffordshire. Please signpost and encourage members of the public to use this online service too which can be easily downloaded as an App to any mobile device.  It can assist us to help people in accessing help and support for themselves at the earliest opportunity, enabling them to feel safe and supported, which is important for all citizens but especially those who are most vulnerable.

Neighbourhood Watch: Suspicious Activity

Overnight on the 4th November the following vehicles were seen driving around a field in High Onn - Church Eaton; A blue 65 plate transit van and black 65 plate volkswagon Golf. An unknown person was also seen shining a spot light into the field, this incident could be linked to poaching.

Do you want to become a Cyber Champion?

Introducing a cyber champion initiative within your workplace will not only raise awareness to cyber safety and security but it will also reduce the likelihood of data breaches and ransomware attacks.

Once you have completed the training, use our template to implement your own cyber champions policy within your workplace and keep up to date with essential cyber safe information.

So, what is Cyber Crime?

Cyber crime is a crime such as fraud, bullying, theft or grooming that is committed online (on the internet) using a device that can access the web, such as smartphones, tablets or other devices. Cyber crime also includes crimes against your computer or device such as contaminating or corrupting it with viruses or taking-over your social media profile, email account or your website.

Halloween

It’s nearly Halloween and the tradition of 'trick or treating'. Although for many this is an enjoyable activity – it isn’t for everyone in our community.  Some residents may not welcome numerous callers to their door and they can find it very unnerving and stressful time.

suspicious Vehicle in Eccleshall

Please be on the look out for a silver Skoda saloon car that was parked up off the High Street in Eccleshall this afternoon around 1300hrs. The occupants of the vehicle claimed to be collecting for charity but left shortly after being challenged by local residents, the occupants spoke with an eastern European accent. If you see a vehicle fitting this description them please call Staffordshire Police on 101.

THEFT OF A CARAVAN

We have received a report of a theft of a caravan from an address in Adbaston today between 09.30-13.30. It is described as a 20 year old white Swift Corniche, & having a registration plate OE62HGJ, although this may have been removed by now. If you have any information about this, please call us on 101 and quote serial number 326/23/2018.

Warning - world cup online lottery SCAM

WARNING:

We have received several reports of local residents from Uttoxeter and Stafford regarding a letter that has come through the post claiming they have won the International Fifa World Cup lottery.

- Please see the attached

Please be aware this is a scam and do NOT give your bank details out.

If this has happened to you, please report this to Action Fraud

https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ 

Tel: 0300 123 2040

Secure your vehicle

We are reminding vehicle owners to check their vehicle security following an increase in the number of thefts of, and from motor vehicles.

Most vehicle crime is opportunist and therefore preventable.

We would always advise and remind owners of the following:-

* Ensure your vehicle is locked and secure whenever left.  Always check your doors - don't rely on remote locking fobs.

* Remove all valuables and possessions when the vehicle is unattended.

* Always garage your vehicle or park on a driveway, or in well lit areas, wherever possible.

* Consider installing tracker devices - in the event your vehicle is stolen - it can be located quickly.

* Consider blocking high value vehicles in with a second vehicle... simple but it works!

* Store keyless entry car fobs in a Faraday pouch to block signal from devices used by offenders to steal your car.

* Store all vehicle keys out of view of windows and doors - thieves will often break into your home to locate keys to steal your vehicle.

Lets not make it easy for them!

For more information and advice visit https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/article/2320/Vehicle-Crime

BIKE MARKING

STAFFORDSHIRE POLICE ARE HOLDING A BIKE MARKING EVENT AT ROWLEY PARK . STAFFORD ON SATURDAY 20TH OCTOBER 2018  FROM 11:00HRS - 16:00HRS.

PLEASE BRING YOUR BICYCLES ALONG TO HAVE THEM SECURITY MARKED.

SEE YOU THERE

Cyber security events

October is European Cyber Security Awareness Month and our Digital PCSO will be travelling around the county in our mobile police station to raise awareness of cyber crime and cyber security to members of the public and local businesses.

Advice and support will be available so please come along and say hello! at ??

Thursday 11th October ...

??Hanley, Tontine Square: 09:30 - 11:30

??Newcastle, High Street: 11:30 - 13:00

??Stafford, Market Square: 14:30 - 16:00

Friday 12th October

??Burton, Station Street: 09:30 - 10:30

??Tamworth, George Street: 11:30 - 13:00

??Lichfield, Market Square: 14:00 - 15:30

M6 Closure this weekend Junction 14 Stafford & 15 Stoke on Trent (both directions)

Staffordshire Police are reminding road users to avoid the M6 between junctions 14 (Stafford) and 15 (Stoke-on-Trent), in both directions from 8pm this Saturday (22 September) due to the demolition of the Creswell Home Farm bridge.If you are planning on using this stretch of the M6 Saturday/Sunday, please be advised to:• Plan alternative routes• Allow additional travelling time and expect slower traffic on diversionary routes• Listen to UK and local radio for motoring updates• If you can’t avoid the M6 follow the signed diversion routes not your sat nav.• Or if it is at all possible, avoid travelling on the M6 on Saturday night.The road will reopen on Sunday 23 September as soon as work is completed, and it is safe to use the carriageway.

EMAIL SCAM

There's an email doing the rounds claiming to be from BT advising that your email address will require upgrading, otherwise your service will be disconnected from 12/09/18.

BT has confirmed that this is a scam!

If you need to reply regarding this message, click on this email address: patrick.wright@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk

Supicious activity

We received a report of 3 males & 3 females seen acting suspiciously in Chestnut close Sunday 09/09/18. They appeared to be taking photos of houses, 1 of them was walking & pointing a mobile phone at the houses & appeared to be filming. When challenged, they left. Only description 1 male wearing a blue & black hoody, 1 female wearing white top & black jacket.

Please ensure you keep your property & vehicles secured & keep all valuables out of sight

If you need to reply regarding this message, click on this email address: patrick.wright@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk

Online chat for all residents of Stafford - Thursday 20 September

We will be hosting an online surgery for residents in the Stafford Borough on Thursday 20 September.  This will be your opportunity to chat to local officers about any issues or concerns you may have in your community.  The chat will go 'live' at 7pm - so make sure you follow the link to join the chat and speak to your local officers of stafford!

https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/stafford

Advice: Secure your vehicle

We are reminding vehicle owners to check their vehicle security following an increase in the number of thefts of, and from motor vehicles.

Most vehicle crime is opportunist and therefore preventable.

We would always advise and remind owners of the following:-

* Ensure your vehicle is locked and secure whenever left.  Always check your doors - don't rely on remote locking fobs.

* Remove all valuables and possessions when the vehicle is unattended.

* Always garage your vehicle or park on a driveway, or in well lit areas, wherever possible.

* Consider installing tracker devices - in the event your vehicle is stolen - it can be located quickly.

* Consider blocking high value vehicles in with a second vehicle... simple but it works!

* Store keyless entry car fobs in a Faraday pouch to block signal from devices used by offenders to steal your car.

* Store all vehicle keys out of view of windows and doors - thieves will often break into your home to locate keys to steal your vehicle.

Lets not make it easy for them!

For more information and advice visit https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/article/2320/Vehicle-Crime

Bike thieves targeted in Stafford

Officers from Stafford’s Neighbourhood Policing Team have arrested and charged a man with theft following a crackdown on Monday night (6 August) aimed at targeting bike thieves in the town centre.

Wayne Sweeney, 26, of Barnes Road, Stafford was charged with a number of theft offences and appears at Cannock Magistrates Court today (7 August).

Police also arrested a 36-year-old man from Stafford on suspicion of theft, possession of an offensive weapon and burglary. The bike he was riding was also seized. He remains in police custody and enquiries are on-going.

Following the initiative, a number of other bikes that are believed to be stolen were recovered. Officers are asking the public for help in identifying the rightful owners, so that other offences can be dealt with and property can be returned.

If you have any information or can help to identify these bikes, please call 101 quoting incident 107 of 8 August, or email fraser.glen@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk

THEFT OF FARM VEHICLE

A quad cycle has been reported as being stolen from an out building from a farm in Church Eaton today. The vehicle is described as a red Honda, with a registration of DX11CUG, which was taken last night, or early hours this morning. If you have any information as to the whereabouts of this vehicle, or witnessed any suspicious activity, please report it to us.

Alert: Public warning about vishing fraud

We are asking people to make their elderly family members and neighbours aware of phone scammers, after reports of fraudsters targeting vulnerable people in the area this week.

These cold-call scams, known as vishing, typically involve fraudsters deceiving people into believing they are speaking to a police officer, a member of bank staff or a representative of another trusted company or agency.

It is easy for them to sound convincing, since they can both fake the telephone number on the screen and do their research to find out some of your basic bank and personal details.

Usually, the fraudster will try to convince an individual that they have been a victim of fraud and will ask for personal and financial information in order to gain access to their account.

However, another variation of a phone scam involves the fraudster persuading people to transfer money to other accounts or to hand over cash directly to a courier.

To ensure you don’t fall prey to this type of phone scam, remember that in no circumstances would your bank or the police ask you to take such actions, and never disclose the following details:• Four-digit card PIN• Full password or online banking codes• Personal details, unless you are sure who you are talking to is legitimateThis advice follows two incidents in the county yesterday, where fraudsters had convinced elderly couples to withdraw large amounts of money from their bank accounts. Fortunately, staff members were vigilant and felt that the transactions were suspicious so contacted the police.

If you experience a similar call, or have been victim of this type of fraud, please contact 101 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or www.actionfraud.police.uk

Advice: Secure your vehicle!

We are urging residents and business owners to be extra vigilant following a number of vehicle thefts and attempted breaks across the county.

We have received reports of both cars and vans being targeted.

We would remind owners to ensure their vehicles are locked and garaged wherever possible, or parked on a driveway or in well-lit areas.

Please ensure all valuables are removed when unattended - this includes tools and equipment, which are often targeted.  Leave a sign in the window advising that no valuables are left in the vehicle (see attached flyer for your use).

Store vehicle keys away and out of sight.  Thieves will consider breaking into your home to steal the keys and the vehicle!

If you have a keyless entry vehicle - ensure your car fob is stored away in a signal blocker pouch or container.

Visit https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/article/2320/Vehicle-Crime or more information and advice.

ALERT: BT phone scam

We are urging residents to be on their guard following a report of a suspicious automated phone call, which claimed to be from BT. It stated that the home broadband would be disconnected, and to follow the options to either continue or cancel. Fortunately, the person receiving the call did not give any personal information or bank details away, and hung up. They contacted BT, and they confirmed that it wasn't them, and that they wouldn't make contact in this way.

We are reminding residents to never give any personal details to a cold caller. If you have any doubts as to how genuine they are, terminate the call and contact your provider through a verified method.

Please pass this message onto your neighbours and advise them to be on their guard and not to give any personal or bank details over the phone to cold callers.

Please support any suspicious calls or emails to Action Fraud, online at: www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Road closures in place for IRONMAN this weekend

Road closures will be in place for a major triathlon taking place in Staffordshire this weekend.

The IRONMAN 70.3, which takes place on Sunday 10 June, will see a variety of diversions and road closures in place in the south of the county to help keep the athletes and marshals safe.

The following areas will be affected:Abbots Bromley, Admaston, Brownhills, Burntwood, Cannock Chase, Chasewater, Colton, Draycott In The Clay, Fairway, Gentleshaw, Hanbury, Hednesford, King’s Bromley, Kingstone, Kingsway, Lichfield, Longdon, Marchington, Needwood, Newborough, Riverway, Rugeley, Stafford Town Centre, South Walls, Stubby Lane, Tixall, Wolseley Bridge and Yoxall.

Maps displaying all the road closures can be found on the event website: http://eu.ironman.com/triathlon/events/emea/ironman-70.3/staffordshire/road-access.aspx#axzz4kB8MU4FPPlease plan any travel in advance and be prepared to use alternative routes to minimise disruption to your journey. 

Vehicles stolen during test drives

Motorists are being warned after a number of cars have been stolen during test drives in Staffordshire.A man pretending to be an interested car buyer has been arranging to meet sellers for a test drive, and has then driven off in the vehicles.Seven offences have taken place since the 18 April in Lichfield, South Staffordshire and Cannock. The cars have all been advertised for sale on vehicle listing website AutoTrader.The offender is described as a white man, approximately 6ft tall, of stocky build with stubble. He arrives at the location on foot, and often wears dark clothing with a cap or hat.Detective Inspector John Quilty, Staffordshire Police CID, said: "We are reminding the public to be alert when selling their cars. Do not hand your keys over to a potential buyer, and be sure to ask for ID or confirmation of insurance before allowing a test drive to take place."If you do have an unusual meeting with a prospective buyer, or have any information in relation to these thefts, please report it to us on 101 quoting incident number 719 of 4 June."

Alternatively, to remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.              

Staffordshire Police Open Day in Virtual Reality

Visitors attending this year's Staffordshire Police Open Day will be able to take part in a virtual reality forensic science experience.

Members of the public are invited to download the HP Reveal and Staffs Uni VR apps (before visiting or during the event) from the Android or Apple app stores and then head over to the forensic science stand to help solve crime through an interactive experience.

Visitors to the forensic investigation activity will be able to take part in three activities. The first is a 360 degree virtual reality experience where your smartphone, with the Staffs Uni VR app installed, will be inserted into a VR headset. Then wearing the headset, visitors will see a mocked up crime scene in which they will be able to look for evidence and help solve the crime.

Our second activity uses Augmented Reality and will enable you to use your smartphone, with the HP Reveal app installed, to locate and log evidence and suggest the causes of the crime in front of you.

The third activity is another virtual reality experience, this time enabling you to actually move items around in a crime scene to gather evidence and help solve the crime.

The forensic investigation activity is just one of many free experiences aimed at helping the public learn more about policing in the county, including live demonstrations, community stalls and lots of family-friendly activities.

Staffordshire Police Open Day will be held on Sunday 3 June, 11am-4pm at our headquarters on Weston Road, Stafford, ST18 0YY.

The event is free and includes a free park and ride facility.  For more information about the Open Day visit www.staffordshire.police.uk/Openday, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @Staffspolice.

THEFT OF DIESEL

We have received a report of a theft of approx 12,000 litres of diesel from a site off Church Eaton Rd Bromstead, which would have happened between Friday evening and this morning (29/05/18). It would appear that a vehicle was used as there are "undefined" tyre marks in the field. If anyone has seen anything suspicious, or have any knowledge of this incident, please call us on 101 and quote serial 452/29/05/18

THEFT OF CARAVANS

We have just received 2 reports of a theft of a caravan & attempted theft of a caravan in the Woodseaves & Loynton area today. The first report was at 11.40 & the second at 11.50. A black Mitsubishi crew cab with registration plate VN57UFX (cloned) was involved in the Woodseaves incident. This will have heavy, fresh damage to the front driver side, having being rammed by the caravan owner. Any sightings of this vehicle please call us on 101 (quote serial 309/19/05 or 999 in an emergency

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE

We have received several reports of a vehicle seen in Haughton & Eccleshall, acting suspiciously, driving slowly passed houses & looking at the drives. The vehicle was described as a 2 tone blue Ford Transit van, reg YC54JGU. If you see this vehicle, or anyone acting suspiciously, please call us on 101, or 999 in an emergency.

DOOR TO DOOR SELLER

WE HAVE RECIEVED SEVERAL REPORTS OF A MALE DOOR TO DOOR SELLING IN GNOSALL & HAUGHTON. THE MALE WAS DESCRIBED AS A WHITE MALE, DARK HAIR, MID 40'S. WEARING DARK COLOURED CLOTHES JACKET & TROUSERS AND CARRYING A LARGE HOLDALL. HE STATED THAT HE IS EX-ARMY AND SOMETHING ABOUT EPILEPSY. HE HAS ALSO ASKED FOR CHEQUES TO  BE MADE PAYABLE TO "JEZ" (NOT HIS NAME). PLEASE CALL US ON 101 (OR 999 FOR EMERGENCIES) IF YOU ARE SUSPICIOUS ABOUT ANYONE "COLD CALLING", & ALWAYS ASK TO SEE THEIR ID  

Fraud Alert: FIFA 2018 World Cup Ticket Alert

The 2018 FIFA World Cup will take place from 14th June - 15th July 2018. The worldwide demand for match tickets is expected to be significant. Action Fraud have been alerted to several websites which are offering World Cup Tickets for sale, some at highly inflated prices.

A FIFA spokesperson said:  "FIFA regards the illicit sale and distribution of tickets as a very serious issue and it has been reminding all football fans that FIFA.com/tickets is the only official and legitimate website on which to buy 2018 FIFA World Cup tickets."

"FIFA has received various complaints and enquiries by customers of non-authorised ticket sales platforms, and has consistently confirmed that these companies cannot guarantee access to the stadiums as the respective tickets may be cancelled. Insofar customers are at risk of investing a high amount of money (also for travelling and accommodation) without having the certainty to actually be able to attend the matches."

FIFA have also warned that "any tickets obtained from any other source, such as ticket brokers, internet auctions or unofficial ticket exchange platforms, will be automatically rendered void and invalid".

We would always advice the following:-

Don't take the risk. Tickets for the World Cup 2018 can only be purchased directly from FIFA. For more information, please visit www.FIFA.com/tickets.A FAN ID is required for fans to be able to enter the 2018 FIFA World Cup stadiums. Exercise caution if using a third party to obtain your FAN ID for you. You may be charged inflated costs for the service and your personal details may be compromised. For more information, please visit www.fan-id.ru .Visit the Take Five website for the latest guidance on how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.For useful advice and information on the World Cup please visit the Government Guidance Pages; https://www.gov.uk/guidance/be-on-the-ball-world-cup-2018.

Please report any fraudulent activity to Action Fraud or call us on 101.

Be wary of buying stolen goods online!

We're warning people to be wary about what they're purchasing online from social media sites like Facebook.Back in February, we received intelligence that a woman in Silverdale, Newcastle-under-Lyme, was selling large quantities of beauty products and candles via Facebook.When officers visited the address they recovered hundreds of pounds worth of goods that had been stolen from Boots and Wilkinson's including Yankee Candles, hairdryers, beauty and make-up sets and perfume.A 40-year-old woman was voluntarily interviewed at Newcastle police station where she admitted to stealing the products.  She will now be charged and appear in court.If the deal you're being offered is too good to be true, the chances are that it probably is!If you're suspicious or concerned about anything you're being sold online, report it to us by calling 101.

If you need to reply regarding this message, click on this email address: nw@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk

RURAL BURGLARIES

We have recieved reports of rural business burglaries in Haughton & Aqualate areas last night.

The Haughton incident, thieves took a trailer, tools & a steam cleaner. They then made an untidy search of an office and took some cash.

In the other incident, thieves stole 1000 ltrs of deisel. It isn't known at this stage if the 2 are linked, but enquiries are in hand.

If you have any information regarding either of these, please call us on 101 quote serial 101/16/04 for the Haughton & 327/16/04 for the Aqualate incident

Rogue Trader Week - 9-13th April - 'No Cold Callers' flyer

This week is Rogue Trader Week and our officers will be out and about providing advice and information to residents about rogue traders and how to prevent falling victim.

Please find attached a flyer which can be printed off and placed in windows or doors to deter cold callers from knocking at your door.

Please print off and share with elderly and vulnerable residents, friends and family.

For more information about rogue traders or bogus officials visit https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/article/2321/Bogus-OfficialsRogue-Traders

Please call us on 101 to report suspicious callers or 999 if you require urgent assistance.

Download Associated DocumentsDocuments accompanying this message are linked below. Click to download and open a file which use the popular PDF format. If you experience problems downloading or viewing a file please visit this help page.

No Cold Callers Flyer (470 KB)

This week is Rogue Trader Week and our officers will be out and about providing advice and information to residents about rogue traders and how to prevent falling victim.

Please find attached a flyer which can be printed off and placed in windows or doors to deter cold callers from knocking at your door.

Please print off and share with elderly and vulnerable residents, friends and family.

For more information about rogue traders or bogus officials visit www.staffordshire.police.uk/article/2321/Bogus-OfficialsRogue-Traders

Please call us on 101 to report suspicious callers or 999 if you require urgent assistance.

Rogue Trader Week - 9-13th April

In Staffordshire, along with the rest of the UK, rogue traders continue to cause problems for residents - particularly those who are elderly and vulnerable.

We will be holding an online surgery on Thursday 12 April at 7pm when you can chat 'live' with police officers and trading standards officers about any issues or concerns you have regarding rogue traders and doorstep crime.

Rogue traders are often referred to as 'cowboys' and pose as property maintenance workers, gardeners and builders who cold call residents offering any number of services.  They offer sub-standard or non-existent goods and services at grossly inflated prices and often target the vulnerable or elderly in the community.  They can also intimidate residents in order to extort money.

For more information or to join the chat visit https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/article/2321/Bogus-Officials

Staffordshire Residents who have concerns about Rogue Traders operating in their area can contact Trading Standards Confidential on 01785 330356. 

City of Stoke-on-Trent residents can call Trading Standards Consumer Advice on 01782 232065 option 5.

For advice on your consumer rights please contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 040506.

Please call us on 101 if you require assistance with a suspicious caller or 999 in an emergency.

False Telephone Preference Service (TPS) Calls

We have been made aware of reports where fraudsters are cold-calling victims, falsely stating that they are calling from one of the well-known UK telecommunication service providers. They call victims claiming to provide a ‘Telephone Preference Service’ - an enhanced call-barring service, which includes barring international call centres.

The fraudsters ask victims to confirm/provide their bank account details, informing them that there is a one-off charge for the service. Victims instead see monthly debits deducted from their accounts, which they have not authorised. The fraudsters often target elderly victims.

In all instances, direct debits are set up without following proper procedure. The victim is not sent written confirmation of the direct debit instruction, which is supposed to be sent within three days.

On occasions when victims attempted to call back, the telephone number provided by the fraudster was either unable to be reached or the victim’s direct debit cancellation request was refused.

Protect yourself:

There is only one Telephone Preference Service (TPS). The TPS is the only official UK 'do-not-call' register for opting out of live telesales calls. It is FREE to sign-up to the register. TPS never charge for registration. You can register for this service at http://www.tpsonline.org.uk.You will receive postal confirmation of genuine direct debits. If you notice unauthorised payments leaving your account, you should contact your bank promptly.Always be wary of providing personal information, or confirming that personal information the caller already claims to hold is correct. Always be certain that you know who you are talking to. If in doubt, hang up immediately.If you have been affected by this, or any other type of fraud, report it to Action Fraud by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Bogus official and doorstep crime

We are reminding residents to be on their guard following several reports of bogus officials targeting the elderly and vulnerable across the County.

This can include doorstep crime, people claiming to come from the council, water-board or other official organisations. Perhaps somebody claiming that the property or garden needs essential maintenance. Another common trick is people claiming their pet/ball is in that person's rear garden.

What is a bogus official and doorstep crime?

Also known as distraction burglars, bogus callers trick their way into people's homes to steal money and valuables. They make themselves seem genuine and plausible while your attention is elsewhere.

They often work in pairs; one to keep you talking at the front door while the other tries to access your house from a back door or window. Some might even plead for help, such as asking for a glass of water.

As a force, Staffordshire Police is doing all it can to catch those responsible for these despicable crimes, and there have been a number of successes. However, there is a lot more that individuals and communities can do:-

Keep your house secure and use a door chain when answering the door.Ensure windows and doors are locked at all times and keys are removed.Don't allow any unsolicited callers into your home - ask them call you, or ask for a number so you can verify their identity.Never agree to having work done on your home by a passer by - always obtain 3 quotes from reputable companies if you are considering getting any work done and never hand over any cash until the work is completed.Never accept an offer from them to drive you to the bank to withdraw money.If a caller is aggressive or threatening call 999 immediately.

If you see anything in your local area relating to the welfare of a vulnerable person call 101 to report it.  Please share this advice with the vulnerable.

Alert: Car Key theft - Doxey Road

We are urging residents to check home and vehicle security following a report of a car key burglary on Doxey Road, Stafford

Saturday (17 of February) sometime after 2:00am unknown offenders have broken in via a window at the back of the building. Offenders have entered the building and taken two sets of keys, iPod and a large amount of money. Offenders have made off with good escape in a BMW 54 plate and taken keys to the other vehicle which was still there.

If you saw the vehicle or anyone acting suspiciously in the area, please contact us on 101 with any information quoting incident number  369 of 17 February.

We would always advise the following:

-       Keep all keys out of sight and away from doors and windows

-       Keep doors and windows locked even when you are at home or in the garden

-       Consider installing a home security system and setting an intruder alarm at night

-       Using European standard TS007 3* anti-snap locked on UPVC doors

-       Consider installing and activating a tracking device on your vehicle and purchasing a good quality steering wheel lock.

-       Ensure side gates are locked

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ATTEMPTED THEFT OF TRAILER

We have been made aware of the following vehicle seen acting suspiciously. A Blue Jeep Grand Cherokee, registration number DU04MHZ. This vehicle was seen in suspicious circumstances near the stables in Little Onn, Church Eaton and attempted to steal an Ifor Williams trailer, but was unsuccessful.

Please review security arrangements for your property and machinery and report any suspicious activity to the police.

If you need to reply regarding this message, click on this email address: patrick.wright@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk

 

Flight Ticket Fraud

Fraudsters are attempting to entice victims who are looking for cheap flights abroad.

Victims have reported booking tickets via websites or a “popular” ticket broker, only to discover that after payment via bank transfer or electronic wire transfer, the tickets/booking references received are counterfeit. In some cases, all communications between the company or broker and the victim have been severed.

Fraudsters are targeting individuals who are seeking to travel to African nations and the Middle East, particularly those wishing to travel in time for popular public and religious holidays.

If you have been affected by this, or any other type of fraud, report it us on 101 or to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.

For more information and advice about this fraud and the latest fraud alerts visit: https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/article/8201/Latest-Fraud-Alerts

Alert: Multiple break-ins

We are appealing for information following multiple break-ins at The Bakery, on Wharf Road in Gnosall.

At around 2am on 19 December a black Volkswagen Golf was driven into the shop door, shattering the glass. Three offenders gained access to the premises and took a number of scratch cards and boxes of cigarettes.

Then on the 27 December at 11.25pm, two individuals were seen acting suspiciously outside of the shop. They were wearing dark clothing with hoods up, and their mouths were covered.

They left the area in a dark grey Skoda via Cowley Lane.

Four offenders returned in same vehicle at around 1.20am on the 29 December. They attempted to gain access to the shop using a sledge hammer when they were disturbed and fled the scene.

After a short pursuit by officers, the Skoda was later found abandoned in Willenhall.

The offenders are described as white males, of slim build, wearing dark tracksuits and hoodies.

Anyone who has any information, or anyone who has CCTV or dash cam footage of any suspicious behaviour or vehicles in the area, is asked to call 101 and quote incident number 33 of 19 December. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.