Five suspects have been charged in connection with more than 40 reports of invasive vehicle crime across residential areas of Newcastle. The charges follow a wide-scale investigation by Northumbria Police into thefts and vehicle interference that occurred in recent months.
Arrests and Charges
Four men and one woman have been arrested and charged after being linked to incidents in locations including Blakelaw, Kenton, and Scotswood. The crimes involved opportunistic thieves trying car and house doors, stealing items when properties were left unlocked overnight.
Two of the men have already been sentenced at court for theft from a motor vehicle and vehicle interference. One was recalled to prison, while the other received a suspended sentence. The woman has admitted to a string of similar offences, including shoplifting. The remaining two men are scheduled to appear in court at a later date.
Police Urge Vigilance
Following the spate of incidents, neighbourhood officers are urging the public, especially those in affected areas, to double-check that both their vehicles and homes are securely locked. This simple step can deter opportunistic criminals.
Neighbourhood Inspector Paul Cook of Northumbria Police said: “We completely recognise how invasive vehicle theft and interference can feel for victims of crime. Nobody wants to experience someone going through their personal property or sentimental valuables, looking for a quick win.
“Sadly, in most of the cases we’ve seen recently across Newcastle, the vehicles and homes targeted have not been secured properly, leaving residents vulnerable to becoming victims of crime. We’ve worked across hotspot areas of the city where these offences are taking place, to find many of the suspects could have been deterred if occupants had double checked everything was locked.
“We want everyone to feel safe in their community, and it goes without saying there is often a knock-on effect to such offending such as a potential rise in cost for car and home insurance policies. Please don’t make it easy for criminals to access your belongings. If they can’t get in, they’ll likely walk away.
“We are keen to develop our intelligence picture, so would encourage residents to keep reporting incidents as they happen, even if nothing is taken. That way, we can ensure those involved are identified swiftly and dealt with appropriately, and we’re especially interested in CCTV and doorbell footage.”
How to Report
To report suspicious activity, police are asking people to send a direct message on social media, or use the live chat and report forms on their website. Those unable to make contact in those ways are asked to call 101. In an emergency, where a crime is taking place, dial 999.
