Issued 31/07/2010 All from Norfolk Constabulary 1. Police are appealing for information after 300 litres of oil was stolen from a tank at a property in Hales overnight on the 13-14 July. Any information contact Loddon Safer Neighbourhood Team on 0845 456 4567 2. Police are reminding car owners to secure their vehicles and to remove valuables from display when leaving them unattended. It follows an increase thefts from and of vehicles in the South Norfolk area in the past few weeks. Inspector James Brown who leads the policing teams in Wymondham, Hethersett, Mulbarton, Poringland and Loddon said: “It is important that people remember to remove anything from view from their vehicle that might tempt a passing thief and that cars should always be locked and secure, with they keys removed from the ignition - even if only leaving the vehicle for a few moments.” Additional crime prevention advice offered by Norfolk Police includes: - Don’t leave anything on display in your car. - Take your belongings with you when you leave the car- if you can’t, lock them in the boot before you start your journey. - Fit an electronic immobiliser- this will prevent the car from starting. - Mechanical immobilisers, such as steering wheel locks, are a good alternative to electronic immobilisers. - Fit locking wheel nuts. - Get an alarm installed. - Consider marking all your valuables that you frequently take in your car. - Lock all doors and close windows and the sun roof every time you leave your car unattended. - If you have a garage, use it. If you don’t always try and park in a well lit open place. - Always lock your car and garage. For further crime prevention advice visit www.norfolk.police.uk. or contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team on 0845 456 4567 3. Police are appealing for witnesses after offensive graffiti was sprayed on the walls of the Community Centre in Chedgrave. The damaged occurred between 5pm and 5.40pm on Monday 19 July. Any information contact police on 0845 456 4567 4. Motorists and residents are being urged by police to watch out for missing road drainage gratings - and to report anyone seen removing them - after a spate of thefts in south Norfolk. Around 50 have been stolen, including thefts from Spooner Row, Wymondham, Brooke, Alpington, Kirstead, Tibenham and a number around the A11 area. It is possible that the thieves use yellow jackets to look like official workmen Norfolk County Council is urging anyone who witnesses the removal of grates to take details, including any vehicles being used, and report the matter to police via their local Safer Neighbourhood Team on 0845 456 4567. Missing grates should be reported to the County Council on the website www.norfolk.gov.uk via the 'Report it' link on the front page, or by calling 0344 800 80009 Issued 22/6/2010 (From Norfolk Constabulary) Officers from Norwich are appealing for witnesses to an assault at Church Plain, Loddon. The incident happened between 11:50pm and 11:55pm on Friday 11 June 2010 at Trinity Church. The 18 year old female victim was walking near the churchyard when she was approached by a male. He assaulted her in the churchyard area before running away. The suspect is described as white, in his 30's wearing a dark hooded top and dark ripped jeans. Officers would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information in relation to the suspect. Contact DC Pippa Maskell at Norwich CID on 0845 456 4567 or anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Issued 14/6/10 (From Norfolk Constabulary) Shed and allotment owners are being urged to increase their security measures following a number of thefts over the last few days. Over the weekend sheds were broken into in the Loddon area of South Norfolk and allotments were damaged. A number of sheds were either damaged or broken into in Gillingham and in Thurlton and garden tools were stolen. Sergeant Pete Lowndes-Smith, Loddon Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) said: “I would like to take this opportunity to remind allotment and shed owners to ensure all their valuables are safely locked away and to be vigilant to any suspicious activity they may notice in the area. I would ask people to report anything they think may be suspicious to the Safer Neighbourhood Team immediately.” Police advise shed owners to take the following crime prevention steps: Secure the windows with a weld mesh or a crime shield product secured from the inside. Do not neglect the hinge either side and use security screws or bolts through their fixings. Fit good quality mortice locks or padlocks 1/3 up and 1/3 down on the door to reduce the leverage available. Fit a security light and shed alarm to deter potential thieves. Use padlocks and chains to secure high value items including power tools, lawnmowers and cycles to an anchor. Overtly security mark your property with your house number and postcode. For further crime prevention advice visit www.norfolk.police.uk. To contact your local SNT call 0845 456 4567 and ask for your local team. Loddon SNT can be contacted by emailing sntloddon@norfolk.pnn.police.uk Issued 30/03/10 (From the South Norfolk Police Homewatch Administrator) You will all be aware that changes are afoot in respect of Home Watch in Norfolk. With effect from 31 Mar the posts of Home Watch Administrator will cease to exist. Additionally, the incumbents of those posts will be made redundant. In future, therefore, ALL queries concerning Home Watch will have to be referred to the Communications and Public Affairs Dept at Police Headquarters, on 0845 456 4567. Any requests for crime reduction surveys or advice should be directed to Mrs C Cawdron on the same number, extension 4998. I have not been included in the discussions on the re-vamp of Home Watch nor have I been privy to any decisions that have been made so I have no idea how everything will eventually 'pan out'. I do not know the extent or style of future messaging to co-ordinators. I would, however, like to thank you all for your hard work and committment to Home Watch since I took on the role of Administrator in August 2007. Good luck and best wishes for the future. Issued 10/02/10 There have been several burglaries recently throughout the county where the pattern has been seen to be similar. The offences have been committed during the daytime and entry has been forced and through the rear of the properties. The houses have tended to be on the outskirts of villages and the property stolen mainly laptops, jewellery and cash. Offenders have also used vehicles to leave the scene. Please ensure that your window and door locks are in good condition and work properly and also that your home's overall security is good. Garden tools can readily be used as implements to assist burglary so please lock them away out of sight. Also, try not to leave laptops in view or jewellery in obvious places. Should you see any vehicles in your area that you think are acting suspiciously, call Norfolk Police immediately. 2009 messages Issued 27/11/09 It has recently been reported that about 10 young males were in the area of Long Stratton, Newton Flotman and Tasburgh, with a lone individual in Poringland, selling household goods and saying that they work for an organisation called 'Keep Britain Working'. This is an organisation that encourages youth employment. There have been a number of recent incidents across the UK of individuals selling door to door and claiming to be ex- offenders working for this organisation. The individual in Poringland was very rude and pushy. Please make your members aware of the incidents because people such as these, selling from door to door, may not be what they appear. Issued 27/11/09 Police are appealing for information regarding a burglary at All Saints Church, Chedgrave between 1000 and 1945 on Monday 9 Nov. Silver items, some dating back 500 years, were stolen from a safe. These include: A silver chalice and paten A silver chalice dated c1567 with the inscription 'For the town of Chetgrave' A silver paten dated c1568 with the inscription 'For the town of Hadlei 1568' A silver chalice dated c1568 with the inscription 'The cuppe ptenying to Hardla' A silver flagon dated 1822 with an inscription on the base which reads 'Presented by Dame Mary Beauchamp Proctor the Parish Church of Chedgrave Christmas 1823' A silver wafer box A silver home communion set A baptism shell Any information should be given to PC Buchanan at Loddon Police Station on 0845 456 4567 or annonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Issued 5/11/09 Yesterday, the 4th Nov, an elderly resident in Long Stratton received a telephone call purporting to be from the local council telling him that a revaluation was being undertaken of council tax payments over the preceding 16 years and that he was due a refund. They attempted to have him confirm his bank card details but he did not do so. He described the person who spoke to him as male with a very strong Welsh accent. They also said that documents would be sent to him through the post. These might well ask, again, for personal details. This is not the way councils approach residents. Please pass the message onto you members so they are aware of this new scam. Issued 14/10/2009 I have sent you a poster, as an attachment if you are on e mail, that residents can display asking those involved in 'Trick or Treat' not to visit their home. May I ask you, as co-ordinator for your scheme, to assess your membership and, if you consider there are some who might benefit, copy the poster and pass it on to those particular households? Those of you who do not receive Home Watch messages by e mail, free copies of the poster may be obtained from the Safer Neighbourhood Team at your local police station. Copies of the poster may also be downloaded from the Safer Norfolk website at www.safernorfok.co.uk a week before Halloween night. (Webmaster's note - the poster can be found on the website's Homewatch page) Issued 28/7/09 Recognising the vital role that Home Watch co-ordinators and other residents' leaders play in their communities, the Home Office has just produced a pack-up under the 'Justice Seen, Justice Done' umbrella. Within this is a booklet entitled 'A Guide for Neighbourhood and Home Watch and Residents' Leaders'. For those of you with e mail I have attached a copy of the booklet for you to down-load. Please forward this message to your members for their information. Copies may be obtained by e mail from homeoffice@prolog.uk.com or by calling 0870 241 4680 and quoting JSJD/NW/DOC. Issued 30/6/09 There have recently been incidents in the county of rogue traders touting for driveway work. We would advise householders not to give these individuals work of any sort. They have picked up the odd job here and there, mostly around Norwich. One householder was relieved that, after the work was carried out, the Police and Trading Standards turned up at the address; he cancelled the cheque that had been made out. These individuals are connected with some fairly nasty characters and as long as they are around Norfolk there is the potential for an upsurge in distraction burglaries and the targetting of the more vulnerable in the community. The less work they get the sooner we will be rid of them. Please stay alert and ensure your members remain alert to the potential problems associated with giving these people work of any kind. Thank you. Issued 18/6/09 There have been instances recently, in a number of locations in South Norfolk, where individuals have called at addresses offering fish for sale. In one incident in Diss an elderly resident handed over £300 for fish that was not what she had asked for and that appeared not to be of good quality. The fish is often offered at inflated prices. A number of individuals have been involved, including a female. They have been described as having northern accents and one was said to be white, slim build with short spiky hair. He was about 5'7" tall and wore a blue shirt and light coloured jeans and drove a white van. Norfolk Trading Standards ask that residents never agree to have work done, or buy goods from, someone who calls unannounced or approaches them in the street. Anyone experiencing problems with traders, or needing further advice, can call the National Consumer Helpline on 0845 404 506. Issued 9/6/09 This is to inform you all of a revised 'tag' system for callers to the Norfolk Police switchboard. Previously, calls were 'tagged' as being from 'Home Watch' members only. This has now changed and the call 'tag' has been re-named 'Watch Scheme'. Please inform your members that should they 'phone in, they should state that they are a member of a 'Watch Scheme'. This will not only include Home Watch but also Shop Watch, Sheltered Housing, Forecourt Watch, School Watch and Horse Watch or any other Scheme to which you might belong. Issued 30/4/09 In February an incident occurred near king's Dam, Gillingham near the Suffolk border at Beccles when a 15 year old female was approached by a man who tried to take hold of her arm. A small red vehicle was involved. Despite extensive enquiries the individual has not yet been identified. There has been a further incident in Carlton Colville, Suffolk on 24 April involving a small, red vehicle. The occupant is described as: Male, white, aged in his mid-fifties, between 5'7" and 6' tall, chubby build with short brown hair with grey streaks. He was wearing a threequarter length leather jacket and a scarf which had pictures of skulls on it. The purpose of this information is to ask you to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. If you have any information relating to this or other incidents please notify the police immediately on 0845 456 4567. In an emergency dial 999. Alternatively you can contact crime stoppers on 0800 555 111 Isued 26/3/09 This is a message regarding bogus callers. On Wednesday 25 March, 2 men called at an address in Thetford and cleaned out the gutters and did some work on the roof. These individuals demanded £4000 for the work and required payment there and then. The bank notified the Police after questioning the amount of money the victim, a pensioner, wished to withdraw. They were in a black van towing a trailer and wore dark clothes. One of the men was older than the other with the younger described as 5'6" with dark hair wearing what was possibly a navy blue jacket. Please let your members know of this incident and, whilst it took place in Thetford, these people could appear anywhere in Norfolk. Please be on your guard. A press release has been issued. Issued 24/3/09 I sent a message to the South Norfolk Home Watch co-ordinators some time ago regarding rogue fish sellers. Well, they appear to be operating in Norfolk again. These people sell poor quality fish at inflated prices and often use intimidating tactics against elderly and vulnerable people. One recent incident in Broadland involved such tactics on an 87 year old female who was going to be charged £524 for a quantity of frozen fish. On this occasion the fish was refused and no money changed hands. These particular individuals were driving a white van. Should you be the subject of such an approach, or see such individuals operating in your area, contact the police on 0845 456 4567 and try to obtain the vehicle index number(s). Issued 16/2/09 There has recently been a very slight increase in the number of thefts involving heating and diesel oil from both domestic and commercial sites. Please make your scheme members aware of this and let them know that alarm systems are available from me at Diss Police Station that will help protect your supplies from the unwanted attention of thieves. These alarms are sold 'at cost' for £20. Additionally, and to help in the protection of both sheds and domestic garages, Keypad Alarms, which are both PIR and magnetic contact activated, are available from your local Safer Neighbourhood Teams. Issued 6/11/08 Perhaps this is an appropriate time of the year to re-iterate the warning on scams so you can remind your members to remain vigilant. There have been recent incidents of fake gold jewellery being sold to members of the public in various parts of the county. A number of reports indicate that these con artists, believed to be eastern european, are even stopping vehicles and pedestrians to peddle their worthless wares. An incident took place on the Yarmouth Road at Gillingham at 0835 on 5 Nov when a vehicle was flagged down by 2 males in a light blue, foreign plated vehicle, parked at the side of the road. The driver was given a 'sob story' about them having no money to visit a sick relative in Birmingham. He was offered what he was told were an18ct gold ring and necklace for £150. He handed over £100 for the items because that was all he had. Needless to say when he later had them checked in Diss they were gold plated and worth very little. Issued 3/11/08 Between 1310 and 1600 on Wednesday 29 Oct a roll of roofing felt and an ornamental tree stump were stolen from the garden of an address in Mill Common, Ashby St Mary. Between 1800 on Friday 31 Oct and 0915 the next day a childrens' slide was uprooted at another address in Mill Common and damaged. Entry to the garden was through a newly-planted laurel hedge which was damaged in the course of events. Issued 20/10/08 Over the past couple of weeks there have been several reports of a male in a white van loitering around schools in Norfolk. The reports have been widespread but descriptions of the vehicle vague. The common theme, however, is the white van. The following safety message is being sent to all schools in Norfolk with the following request to remind pupils - Reinforce the message "Say NO" To leave the area, away from the vehicle or person To find a place of safety, go to a person they can trust, who might be a teacher, parent or family group, shopkeeper, or a person in uniform and tell them what has happened so the incident can be reported to police as soon as possible. And To try to provide as much information as possible. If an incident is suspected or reported please contact Norfolk Police using the 999 system where appropriate. An appropriate response will then be provided to each incident. Where possible obtain the fullest description of persons, vehicles and registrations numbers. Additionally, I am sending this message to all South Norfolk Home Watch Co- ordinators in order to inform as many people as possible about these incidents. Thank you for your help Issued 23/9/08 This is a message concerning suspicious behaviour in the Broome area of South Norfolk and Horsham St Faith. In an incident that took place in Sun Road, Broome at approximately 1430 on Monday 22 Sep, a man went from door to door acting in a manner that has been described as suspicious. He was described as white, tall and had shaven hair. He was wearing all black and carrying a black holdall. In the other incident, and on the same date, a man was going from door to door asking for a specific amount of money allegedly to 'help with his family'. This individual was described as white, tall with short, tidy auburn hair. He was aged about 30 years old and wore casual clothes and a fawn coloured jacket. Both incidents are currently being investigated. Please stay vigilant and report any such suspicious behaviour to the police as soon as possible. If such behaviour involves traders, or if you need further advice regarding traders, the national consumer helpline is Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06. Issued 4/6/08 I have received the following information from a co-ordinator concerning high pressure salesmen. On Monday 2 June, at about 1730, a team of sales people descended on a street in Poringland trying to sell Sky TV packages. They used very high pressure techniques and claimed that when the digital changeover took place, people in the area would no longer be able to receive TV signals without expensive (£300 for an aerial) upgrades because of poor reception. This I am informed is incorrect on both counts. Any contract for such a package would have to signed immediately but they refused to leave any literature. One resident was, apparently, quite frightended by these people. Another claim was that the contract offered free telephone calls, locally, nationally and internationally, without limit. There were 3 individuals, one was an Asian male and another an Asian female. The third was white. I have forwarded the information onto Trading Standards for their information. Please let your members know about these people and advise them against falling for such high pressure behaviour. Issued 29/5/08 On Wednesday 28 May a man called at an address in Framingham Earl saying he was from May Gurney and that he could tarmac the drive for the householder. Enquiries later established he was NOT from May Gurney. Needless to say the tarmac job was done badly and certainly not worth the money, £1100, that was paid. There were 3 men involved. 1. 40-45 years, medium build, light brown, short hair wearing white shirt and grey trousers. 2. Tall 3. Short with grey hair The vehicle being used to carry the materials had 'Motorway Maintenance' on the side and there was also a light coloured car being used. Any paperwork that is shown will be badly copied, photocopies and will obviously not look authentic. Please let your members know of this incident and warn them NOT to fall victim to this scam because I am informed that the approach these individuals take can be somewhat intimidating. Should anyone be approached by these people, Norfolk Trading Standards would very much like to be informed as soon as possible on 0844 800 8005. Thank you for your help. Issued 22/5/08 The Norwich City Home Watch Association is hosting a 'Last Night Of The Proms' event at the United Reformed Church in Princes Street, Norwich on Friday 18 July 2008 from 1930 to 2130 featuring the Norwich City Concert Band. Tickets are on sale at £5 each and £8 for two; childrens' ticket prices are negotiable. All ticket numbers will be entered into a prize draw to be held on the night. Tickets are available from Caroline Cawdron on 01603 276054, Peter Ingram, Norwich City Home Watch Administrator on 01603 276095 or c/o Norwich City Home Watch Association, Bethel Street Police Station, Norwich NR2 1NN. Cheques should be made payable to Norwich City Home Watch Association. Issued 19/5/08 Late last week, there were a number of individuals posting flyers, asking for scrap metal, through the doors of houses in Manor Road, Francis Road and adjacent roads in Long Stratton. Those individuals involved were taking a good deal of interest in both the properties they visited and their surroundings. Please remember that visits such as these are often the precursor to distraction burglaries. In this instance Long Stratton was visited but it is highly likely that these people, 4 men and one woman, will target other areas of South Norfolk. During the Long Stratton visit, they were using a Black Ford Ranger vehicle and a white Ford Transit type drop-sided van/lorry. Please pass this message on to your members and ask them to be vigilant. Issued 15/5/08 This is a general warning concerning distraction burglaries and rogue traders. Over the previous 24 hours there have been a number of distraction burglaries and associated attempts in South Norfolk. The story is a familiar one with criminals posing, in the majority of cases, as water company officials. In one such incident the suspect threw water over an elderly resident who refused him entry. Rogue trader incidents logged have included offers to paint an elderly couple's house in Stoke Holy Cross to an Irish male, with another individual, asking questions about caravans for sale in the area having said he was there to fill in potholes in the road. I sent out messages recently about rogue fish salesmen and an incident in Norwich with an alleged water company official. Please circulate your members with this timely reminder about the subject of distraction burglaries. I would also ask that should you have any elderly or vulnerable individuals in your schemes, or as neighbours, you make the effort to reinforce the message to them. The Anglia Water telephone number to use to check the authenticity of water company officials is 0800 145 145. In the case of EDF the number is 0800 365 000 Whenever anyone calls at your address, not necessarily those saying they are from a utility company, always make sure your back door is locked before you go to the front door. In the case of alleged utility representatives ask to see their identity card, ask for their name and identity number and take the card. Ask them to wait while you call the appropriate number to check. Always close the door when you do this. If your door has a chain, always use it. This is a quick update on the rogue fish sellers I told you about on 8 May. You will be pleased to know that this team have now been arrested and are presently in custody. The arrest was as a direct result of information from a member of the public. Thank you. Issued 14/5/08 Today, Wednesday 14 May, at about 1035, 2 men were heard banging on the front door at an address in Fairfax Street, Norwich saying they were from the 'Water Board' and demanding to be let in because, they said, the neighbouring properties had water leaks. The occupier thought the banging was so loud they were attempting to break in. She refused them entry and stated that she was calling the police. The bogus callers are described as: Both mid 30s and both wearing blue striped tops and jeans. One was large build with blond wavy hair and the other was bald and of medium build. Please, always ask for identification from such callers and remember there are no 'water boards' anymore, only water companies. If you are in any doubt, the telephone number to check the authenticity of Anglia Water employees is 0800 145 145. Issued 8/5/08 We have been informed by Trading Standards that instances have occured, in a number of areas in Norfolk, involving a particular team of cold callers. These individuals are selling quantities of fish parcelled up into bags. On 7 May, in the Broadland area, they called on an elderly lady who parted with £1475 for 10 bags of fish. It goes without saying that it was not good quality and was of dubious origin. Those known to be involved at the moment are described as: Male, white, 5'9", 50's, grey hair, wearing a white coat with dark clothing underneath. Male, white, 6'4", heavy build, balding Female, white, late 30's, 5'2", with fair/blonde hair. Those who are approached to buy the fish are shown a sample of what they are told they will receive for their money. The first bag is good quality but subsequent bags are certainly not, nor are they worth the money. The only vehicle seen at present has been a white van. It should be noted that their selling techniques, originally a little forceful, are now bordering on the intimidating. Should you be approached, or if you have any information concerning these people or any vehicle that is being used, please contact, as soon as possible, Norfolk Trading Standards on 0845 404 0506. Issued 30/1/08 A press release has been received by Norfolk Police which is being published today. This concerns bogus callers and has been issued by the Consumer Council for Water. I though it appropriate that all the South Norfolk Co-ordinators should have a copy in case the information in the press is missed. 'The Consumer Council for Water is calling for consumers to be extra vigilant this winter against distraction burglars, bogus callers or criminals who pretend to be from a utility company or other organisation to trick their way into a home. Dark afternoons and evenings can leave people feeling particularely uneasy when someone unexpectedly comes knocking, but the Council for Water is suggesting steps homeowners should take to help protect themselves against bogus callers. According to the Home Office, there were approximately 12,000 reported bogus caller incidents in 2007 and roughly half the imposters claimed some connection with the 'Water Board'. Although thieves may show up on the doorstep posing as water workers, water company staff will try, whenever possible, to make an appointment before visiting a home. Be especially wary of anyone saying they are from 'the water board'. There are no water boards, only water companies and a true water company employee will name the water provider and carry company identification. Before opening the door to any stranger, STOP. If the door has a chain, use it and ask to see a form of identification. Have the visitor hand their identification through the door or letter box and call the water company to confirm that the visit is legitimate and the identification is not a fake. A genuine water company employee will happily wait while the necessary checks are made. IF UNSURE DON'T OPEN THE DOOR. If the visitor claims to have left the identification at home or in their vehicle turn them away. If he or she becomes aggressive at any time, keep them outside your door and immediately dial 999. Customers who would feel safer with an extra layer of protection against bogus callers are encouraged to register a password with their water company. All water companies have password schemes available in which the customer can choose his or her own password. Some password schemes have provision for deaf and blind customers. Dame Yve Buckland, National Chair for the Consumer Council for Water said, 'This is a particularly disturbing crime because it deliberately targets the weak and vulnerable. Victims are most likely to be older people who live alone. People need to understand that they are entirely within their rights to turn a visitor away if they feel uncomfortable or are unsatisfied with the information presented. No water company will insist on entry to your home and, if the reason for the visit is necessary, the water company can find another way to let you know so thay can carry out the work'. This is common sense but it will do no harm to reinforce the message, especially to the elderly and to those who might be vulnerable. To reinforce the points raised in the above press release this is a real incident that took place on Thursday 24th January. The householder at an address in Marlingford Rd, Easton, Norwich told us that on that date between 1400 and 1500, she disturbed a man in her front garden who purported to be a Corgi engineer. He wanted access to her home to check her boiler. He had no identification so she refused him entry and sent him on his way. He was described as white, 40-50 years of age, no discernable dialect, stocky build, 5'11' tall, short black hair, clean shaven and wearing jeans and a dark coloured jacket. He drove off in a dirty cream coloured Transit type van. Had he been admitted to the house anything could have happened. Again, please reinforce the message to your members. I have available a number of audio casssettes dealing with distraction burglaries that are available from Diss Police Station or they can be forwarded to you. Issued 28/1/08 We have just received a general warning from the Greater Mancherster Police. This concerns the theft of a full, British Gas uniform that was stolen from Belle View, Manchester. The uniform was large size and included a winter jacket with luminous piping. A leather folder with a British Gas logo on it was also stolen. This contained details of products. There is nothing to suggest that whoever took the uniform intends to head to our area. However, please be aware of this and please tell your members to ensure that they check identification of anyone purporting to be from British Gas. Any suspicious callers should be reported to the police immediately. Issued 14/11/07 Norfolk Police have received information concerning the possibility of a Rave taking place over the weekend 16/17/18 November. The exact location is not known but a number of such events had been planned, on a number of dates earlier this month, but were called off at the last minute. The intelligence suggests that this could take place in an area of Norwich or, potentially, anywhere in Norfolk. However, for the South Norfolk Home Watch Co-ordinators please circulate this information to your members and, if you have any current knowledge or information or, if you hear anything concerning this potential rave before this coming week-end, please contact Norfolk Police on 0845 456 4567 or your local Police Station. Thank you for your assistance. Issued 4/10/07 Between 11.30am and 2pm on 3 Oct a house in Rockland St Mary was entered and a quantity of cash was stolen. This money had been left in an unlocked part of the house. The offender(s) left the premises via conservatory doors. Please advise your members that it is not wise to leave sums of money on display especially in premises that are not locked. This type of thing makes life very easy for the thieves. Issued 7/8/07 Over the last few days, there have been attempted burglaries to dwellings in Brockdish, Bressingham, Cringleford and Wymondham. On a number of occasions the householder was at home at the time and interrupted the offenders who appeared interested in stealing cash and jewellery. Please avoid keeping valuable jewellery in boxes on dressing tables or in view in the house. Far better to keep such items, not used on a daily basis, in a secure box in a roof space. Also, these burglaries serve as a reminder not to keep large sums of cash in the home. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the new Home Watch Administrator for South Norfolk. My name is Derek Clarke and I am based at Diss Police Station. This is my second day in post so please bear with me as I get to grips with the various information systems. Issued 20/6/07 DISTRACTION BURGLARIES/COLD CALLERS Once again I must ask you to make your neighbours aware of the importance of not entertaining cold callers. Several incidents have been reported to the police over the last 24 hours. 3 reports of bogus water board officials asking to check the water pressure 1 in Norwich 2 in the west of the county .The occupants were distracted and a quantity of cash has been stolen. Taverham 2 males called at an address claiming to have been sent by the landlord to service the heating.They did not gain entry to the property and checks have revealed that they were not genuine. Other incidents a man called at a house asking the lady if she could change a £20 note,he walked into the living room with the lady .After he had left it was discovered that the ladies purse containing cash and her house keys had been stolen. This is one crime we can all stop by you not letting them into your property. Please always report incidents and anything suspicious immediately to Norfolk Police on 0845 456 4567 and where possible with discriptions of person/s and index numbers of vehicles please.Alternatively you can call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 Issued 12/6/07 In the absence of an administrator for South Norfolk this is a message via the Broadland Home/Commercial Watch Administrator. General Warning - We are seeing an increase in person/s that trade door to door offering gardening services and offering to buy scrap metal. Theft of this item is very much on the increase. There have been leaflets distributed in other areas offering to buy scrap metal and asking for the leaflet to be displayed IF you have nothing to sell. Once again I would advise you not to entertain Cold Callers - please be vigilant and security conscious. I would hope you would advise your neighbours accordingly. Trading Standards are always keen to have information about this type of leaflet - please call them on 0845 404 0506. The Police would be grateful of any sightings of a white Ford Escort van registration no K887 YOH with if possible descriptions of the driver and any passengers. When calling state this is in answer to a Ringmaster message. This is also the season when a lot of events are taking place throughout the county and we see an influx in visitors coming to Norfolk to these events just take extra time to look around your property do not leave items laying around your garden or property pay particular care in securing items especially trailers, horseboxes, horse tack, ride on lawn mowers, tools etc. Please check your security and always report anything suspicious immediately to Norfolk Police on0845 456 4567 and where possible please note descriptions of person/s and registrations of vehicles. Alternatively you can always call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Issued 26/3/07 Over the weekend there was a rash of thefts from vehicles and theft of diesel fuel particulary in New Costessey, Cringleford, Easton, Colton, Wymondham Dunston and Bunwell. Many of the thefts took place on building sites or commercial premises but others took place during the day on residential driveways. Also in Aslacton a cycle was left unlocked by the side of the house and stolen. We must all be more aware of the risks of theft of our property and beat the thief. A report has been received about a telephone cold caller from a company called St John Security selling home security systems including CCTV. If this company says they are working in partnership with Norfolk Constabulary it is not true and report them to Trading Standards. My recommendation is to politely tell all cold callers whether by telephone or on the front doorstep "No thanks" and put the handset down and shut the door. Issued 19/3/07 Thieves in Haddiscoe managed to gain entry to a number of vehicles left unlocked at a business premises including a cement lorry, sugar beat lorries and a caravan, all with keys inside which were stolen. Most importantly a bogus caller was operating in Bungay and Diss over the last few days where a male targetted elderly persons and asked them to fill buckets of water as the water supply was about to be turned off. While the occupant was filling the buckets the thief who is described as aged 35, 5' 8", medium build with light brown short hair and a speech impediment and with a short brown jacket and grey jeans, stole large sums of cash. Please remind everyone about locking vehicles and removing keys and the dangers of letting anyone into your premises you do not know. Issued 13/3/07 Thieves are in your area targetting satellite navigation systems particularly from commercial vehicles and stealing fuel from vehicles and containers both residential and commercial. The most recent theft of fuel occurred in The Turnpike Bunwell where thieves stole diesel fuel from 6 lorries and in Hopper Way Diss burglars forced a container on a building site and damaged vehicles parked on site. Also in Hoppers Way thieves stole a bag during the day from an unlocked Portakabin. In Carleton Rode thieves stole a cycle from a garage which was believed to have been locked by the owner but no forced entry seen. It is certain that thieves are beginning to target garages, sheds and barns; make sure your property is thief proof. Issued 12/2/07 In Princess Way Earsham thieves unscrewed the hinges off a shed and stole sporting euipment. Always use security screws which cannot be unscrewed when using T hinges on shed, barn and garage doors. In Loddon Road Ditchingham a thief forced the lock of a shed but stole nothing from inside, however , the thief made their escape by stealing a cycle left unlocked in the garden. There have been quite a few thefts from vehicles in Diss where windows were smashed and the thieves stole cash, personal documents and a satellite navigation system cable. For everyone who has received a Yellow Pages; if it was delivered by leaving it on your doorstep with no apparent effort to hide it or to check that you were at home to receive it Yellow Pages is waiting to hear from you on 0800 671 444. Issued 25/1/07 This is for all residents in South Norfolk (sorry not for Bowthorpe). Nigel Bailey is appointed as the Neighbourhood Safety Co-ordinator based atSouth Norfolk Council Long Stratton. He is responsible for co-ordinating anti-social behaviour complaints and will be working with the police to resolve such issues. If you are subjected to anti-social behaviour report it to the police first then tell Nigel Bailey. You can contact Nigel on 01508 533670 or 01508 533619 or by email at nbailey@s-norfolk.gov.uk - If you have access to the internet go to the website www.south-norfolk.gov.uk. Then click on crime and community and then anti-social behaviour. This will give you access to the report forms and further information. Issued 22/01/07 Over the weekend there were a number of burglaries. In Rockland St Mary a burglar found an insecure shed and stole a cycle. Also, in Woodrow Lane Great Moulton a thief forced a shed lock and stole a hedge trimmer and chainsaw. In Low Road Thurlton a burglar managed to enter a home via a window and even though the home was alarmed the burglar entered the wine cellar which wasn't alarmed and stole a quantity of wine. In Low Road Tasburgh a burglar smashed a bedroom window and with the power off and therefore the alarm disabled stole the keys to the safe. In Stoke Holy Cross thieves used a blue/grey Land Rover Discovery to try and ram the front of a public house and although they damaged the garden fencing and furniture they failed to gain entry to the premises. Similarly in Yarmouth Road Hales thieves used a grey/blue Land Rover to ram an entry to a business premises and stole a quantity of motorcycle equipment and clothing. Thieves continue to steal from vehicles with recent incidents in Loddon and Long Stratton. Issued 01/07 South Norfolk Home Watch - NEWSLETTER 2006 Introduction The year has had its good and bad moments. Starting with the bad; the National Neighbourhood Watch Association had to be put on the back burner because of lack of funding but with hopes of a resurrection next year. Also, the Norfolk Home Watch Association Chair, Secretary and Treasurer resigned, but more news later on that subject. The good news is that Home Watch in Norfolk continues with more new schemes every month and to date there are almost 80,000 members across the county. One improvement to my working environment has been the installing of Broadband to my message computer, enabling me to send and receive emails faster and access security information faster from the internet. The Ringmaster message system has been reliable throughout the year and the police have made my office area much more comfortable, making my job even more enjoyable – and they even gave me a small pay rise!! All this is great, but the important message is that the police recognise the importance of Home Watch members and that you should be supported in your efforts to support the police. Home Watch is here to stay and will be even more important over the coming years with the introduction of Safer Neighbourhood Teams. This new approach to policing will have already been explained in more depth at recent meetings but to those who haven’t heard, there will be presentations arranged over the coming months to each Town and Parish, but in short Home Watch schemes will play a vital part as partners with the police in Neighbourhood Teams consisting of police officers and police support officers dedicated to local areas with local residents identifying and helping to resolve local problems. If you have access to the internet you can find a monthly update on Safer Neighbourhood Teams on the website www.norfolk.police.uk. On the down side I am fast approaching my time for retirement and will be reluctantly handing over to my successor in 2007. However, I will remain a member of Home Watch in my village, follow the successful progress of Home Watch across the county and until retirement I will endeavour to improve the service in South Norfolk. It has been obvious from crime reports over the year that the main concerns from residents of South Norfolk have been the numerous cases of criminal damage and anti-social behaviour. The police are aware and cracking down on unacceptable behaviour which causes so much distress. However the following statistics are something to be happier about: For the period April – December 2006 (as at end of November - time of printing) Burglary Dwelling: Actual 129 (and reducing after recent arrests) Target to date 124 Vehicle crime: Actual 279 Target to date 309 Although the above is to be applauded, burglary to ‘other than dwelling’ which includes shops, businesses, churches, schools and sheds, garages and outbuildings etc. is not shown in targets but is 2/3 of all burglary offences and is why I sometimes seem to be keeping on about making sure these premises are secure. Most burglaries occur during the day but 1/3 are committed between midnight and 6am. The most common method to gain entry is by forcing a rear door or window but sadly, as last year, there are still too many crimes where the premises were insecure with doors and window left open. There continues to be concern over the frequent occurrences of bogus caller offences and rogue traders targeting the most vulnerable and we must continue to keep a wary eye out for those that are perpetrating these crimes and those that are most affected. This year we have had people purporting to be police officers, council officers and water company officials and children tricking the elderly. The most ‘popular’ article to be stolen is jewellery followed by cash, credit cards and of course your identity. Also, thieves have taken audio/video and computer equipment from sheds and from garages stolen articles include machinery plant, power and hand tools, garden machinery, motorcycles and pedal cycles. Although vehicle crime is within the target set it is disappointing to see every day that someone has left valuables inside on view or left a vehicle unlocked or both, sometimes overnight and sometimes in a dark unlit secluded parking area. The most recent popular article to be taken from vehicles is the satellite navigation system. These are becoming more and more common and thieves are aware that even if you remove the system a ‘ring’ mark is left on the windscreen by the rubber suction pad and that is their clue to break into the car in the hope that the system has been left in the glove compartment. Lastly, it is very disappointing to see so many people showing total disregard for the security of pedal cycles. Leaving cycles unlocked, sometimes leaning against shop fronts, home sheds and garages and lying in the garden is manna to thieves. In October Diss police Station had over 24 cycles in their store without security markings and very few reports of stolen cycles. I will continue to keep you informed as best I can but there will always be occasions when I cannot tell everything and I’m very happy if you wish to contact me if you know something of which I should be aware or if you would like more in-depth information about a particular incident. The bottom line is that the police are still arresting criminals and working on catching those still at large and as a member of Home Watch you are still very much less likely to be a victim of crime. Contacting the Police You should commit the following two numbers to memory: For emergency calls and you require urgent police assistance call 999 For all non-emergency calls including calls made some time after an event, or when you are unsure about an incident that had occurred or if you wish to call a particular officer or police station call 0845 456 4567 Everyone is responsible to report a crime - do not expect the Co-ordinator to do it but tell your Co-ordinator afterwards so they can keep others aware. The police are always keen to hear from the public and only they will know how important your call is after you have made it so don’t be worried that your call might be wasting their time. Your small piece of information might just be the last piece of the puzzle they have been waiting for. On the other hand, the recipient of your call might not be having a good day and if you feel you have not been given the response and urgency you were expecting please write to the Chief Constable and COMPLAIN. That is the only way people with the power to make changes are made aware of problems. The Norfolk Home Watch Co-ordinator of the Year 2006 There had been a change of officers of the Norfolk Home Watch association around June /July and therefore there wasn’t enough time to arrange a Co-ordinator of the Year 2006. The good news is that a new Chair, Secretary and Treasurer have been elected and all bodes well for the future. There will be a better time ahead for us all with benefits for all Home Watch members. You may not be aware that there is a County Association and the Committee is made up from representatives from each of the 7 Districts. South Norfolk sadly doesn’t have an active District Association but if you want one and are interested in helping to form one let me know. However, representatives from South Norfolk Home Watch do attend the meetings to ensure South Norfolk has a voice. The County Association is a registered charity and its aim is to support Home Watch across the county with funding and helping to improve training and working practices for all members. Property Marking Throughout the year I remind everyone about the benefits of property marking using a simple UV pen marking kit. Property security marking really does deter the thief but as jewellery and small valuables are the most likely items to be stolen from a home how can you mark these items and not affect their value? The ‘simplest’ way to record valuables and jewellery is to take digital photographs of the items and store the photographs on a CD to be held by a trusted friend or neighbour. If you hold the CD at home and you are burgled you don’t want to give the thief a record of all your valuables that were not stolen on their last visit to your home!! The good news is there are ways of marking jewellery, antiques and other valuables and it is done through a respected professional company called Selectamark. It is possible to buy systems such as ‘Microdot’ with your specific reference code (about £30 for 1000 dots) or by using a DNA system where you brush on a ‘liquid’ containing a DNA reference code with a paint brush (about £75 for marking 50 items). I commend you to contact Selectamark for full information about their systems at Selectamark Security Systems plc, 1 Locks Court, 429 Crofton Road, Locksbottom, Kent BR6 8NL – 01689 860757 or email sales@selectamark.co.uk. Their website is www.selectamark.co.uk In all cases where you security mark your property you must advertise the fact; otherwise thieves will not be deterred. Don’t listen to those that say “if you advertise that you have valuables it will encourage thieves to break-in”. The majority of thieves believe that everyone not sleeping in a cardboard box is assumed to have items of value and will assess whether to break-in by the amount of security on the building, the security awareness of the owner of the property and the opportunity available. As reported in a previous message there is a National Register where you can register your property and if it is lost or stolen and later recovered by the police it can be quickly returned to you. Visit their website for more information: www.immobilise.com or email them at info@immobilise.com I am always reporting the large numbers of pedal cycles stolen, but Selectamark have recently updated their Bikeregister website www.bikeregister.com and I commend every cycle owner to not only security mark their cycle and keep it locked when left unattended, but also to consider using the Bikeregister. SCAMs People who carry out scams are Scheming, Crafty, Aggressive and Malicious. It is almost impossible to keep up with the latest scam because as soon as one scam is found and negated the criminal invents another. They come to you in the form of a letter, telephone call, email and the cold caller. If you think an offer is too good to be true or this is just too good to miss, think again, never commit yourself without first talking it over with friends, family or an independent expert. It seems that most scam ‘once - in – a lifetime’ offers or notices of a ‘competition’ win comes from Canada or Africa but don’t rule out anywhere else! Some companies particularly one called PDF which purports to be a delivery company will send you a card saying you have a parcel requiring you to call and arrange delivery. The telephone number will start with a 09 which means you will pay on a premium line. You will hear an answer machine and you will receive a bill but no parcel. The latest and probably the most serious scam is identity theft and many lives have been totally ruined by a criminal getting their hands on a small but vital piece of personal information. Recently a thief in Wymondham emptied a wheelie bin in the hope of retrieving information which might enable them to steal an identity. The following are steps you can take to go a long way in protecting yourself against identity theft: Don’t give personal details, especially financial details, over the phone or on email unless you are certain you know to whom you are contacting. Always destroy unwanted mail by using a shredder – they are normally less than £25 but could save you thousands. Always cover the PIN numbers with your other hand when using a cash machine and never use the machine if someone is standing too close to you. Never accept help from a member of the public if there appears to be a problem with the machine. Call the bank or the police if you are suspicious of the machine; never get into a discussion with someone who seems suspicious- these criminals can be particularly nasty. For more information about scams if you have access to the internet look at the Office for Fair Trading web-site at www.oft.gov.uk or call them on 0845 7224499. Anti-Social Behaviour As anti-social behaviour and criminal damage remain a big concern to most people I must say something on the matter. There are some incidents that most people will accept as high jinks and youthful exuberance and we can all remember when maybe in our youth our actions were not always helpful or acceptable to our elders. However, the difference between a few decades ago and today is the obvious lack of self discipline of some youngsters, not all, and lack of guidance from some adults who should know better. Keeping a diary of events on anti-social behaviour incidents and reporting criminal damage and anti-social behaviour to the police and the Anti-social Behaviour Co-ordinator may be the way to stop some people from moving from minor incidents to full blown crime. Don’t expect the police to come out to every nuisance report but all reports are recorded and help give police a full picture of the extent of the incidents so that they can use their limited resources to best effect. Contact the South Norfolk Council on 01508 533670 for copies of the ‘Diary of Events’ and advice. Helpful Partners PACT – Partners Against crime Taskforce. PACT is a charity and an organisation that works with the police to help the public make their homes more secure. I recommend that everyone should contact the police on 0845 456 4567 and ask for The Crime Reduction Department at Vantage House Norwich to arrange a free security survey of their home. The police will also arrange a free security survey of commercial premises. If after the survey the police recommend that you have new or replacement locks fitted to doors and windows or door chains or door spy viewers fitted you may be eligible to have the items supplied and fitted free by PACT. If you are living in your own home or renting a home not owned by a housing partnership and you are over 60 OR disabled OR in receipt of benefit you should contact PACT to discuss the items mentioned on the police survey. Contact them on 01953 424727. Care and Repair - South Norfolk Care and Repair is a service for people who are over 60 or disabled and is aimed at helping home owners and private tenants (not housing partnerships) with essential repairs and adaptations to their homes. Care and Repair officers provide advice, practical and sometimes financial help or simply put you in touch with other support services. Practical help may involve assessing and listing necessary repairs, dealing with builders on your behalf to obtain estimates and checking work when completed. If you have a low income and/or are in receipt of Guaranteed Pension Credit, Income Support, Council Tax Benefit or Housing Benefit, then financial assistance may be available to you via a grant and loan scheme to help part or fully fund the work required. To contact Care and Repair at South Norfolk Council Offices call them on 01508 533705 or send an email to hrenewal@s-norfolk.gov.uk Ends Issued 2/1/2007 I hope you had a cheerful and crime free holiday but over the period a car was vandalised in Gentleman's Walk Langley, two shop windows in Diss were smashed, a shop window in Long Stratton was smashed and a shop in Long Stratton was burgled; offenders entering via the front door. A shed in Uplands Way Diss was forced open and a cycle was taken. A wind turbine and two solar panels were stolen from a property in Bressingham and in Rectory Lane Hedenham a black and white horse about 10 hands high was stolen. In High Green Brooke a burglar gained entry to a home via an insecure fanlight window and stole various items after ransacking the house and also stole a vehicle parked outside the home. In Norton Subcourse a householder discovered his insecure garage had been entered and alcohol had been stolen. The householder is believed to have seen the offenders shortly after the crime and has been able to identify at least one of them. Any information about these crimes should be passed to the police via 0845 456 4567. Issued 16/11/2006 First, a big thank you to all of you who voted for the Wymondham skateboard park and cycling project that appeared on Anglia tv last Monday - they won, and asked me to pass on their grateful thanks. There has been little crime to report over this past week but the usual incidents have occurred including a satellite navigation system stolen from a parked vehicle, cycles left unlocked in gardens being stolen, the shed door forced open and diesel fuel stolen from business premises. Burglars in neighbouring Suffolk and other Norfolk Districts have become more active so make sure your property is well lit and secure, particularly when you leave the home unattended. Issued 15/11/2006 If you receive a phone call on your mobile from any person, saying that, he or she is a company engineer, or telling you that they're checking your mobile line, and you have to press #90 or #09 or any other number. End this call immediately without pressing any numbers. There is a fraud company using a device that once you press #90 or #09 they can access your "SIM" card and make calls at your expense. Issued 12/11/2006 Your help could reduce anti-social behaviour in South Norfolk. Wymondham Town Council has applied for a grant of £50,000 towards the cost of building a skateboard park and cycling facilities in the Browick Road recreation ground. The project will appear on tv Anglia News on the evening of Monday 13 November. It will be in direct competition with another project from outside the District and viewers will have to vote for the one they prefer. You dont have to watch the programme but your vote is vital to ensure the Wymondham project has a chance to give the youngsters a facility which will keep them fit, help develop their social skills, help develop teamwork and show them how they can help build a better community. Your vote is vital and the lines will be open from 9am till midnight on 13th November. The telephone number to call will be given in the tv programme and on the day in the Mirror newspaper and also at www.wymondhamonline.co.uk/vote. Issued 6/11/2006 Over the weekend there were instances of nuisance caused by the firework celebrations, but not too much. Of equal concern were the instances of theft from vehicles mainly in Diss, Broome and Tivetshall St Margaret. Thieves smashed windows to steal a handbag left on the front seat and items were taken left on view while the owner visited a health centre for a few minutes. Thieves are still targetting lorries particularly those parked in business compounds to steal their fuel. The police have made a number of arrests in connection with recent thefts and burgarlies but help them by making sure your home and vehicle are secure and nothing is left on view inside vehicles to tempt offenders. Issued 30/10/2006 In Yarmouth Road Hales a male asked an elderly householder to help look for his lost cat. While she was looking he entered her home and stole her purse and cash. This is the second time this trick has been used on an elderly person - beware. In Diss a thief tried to force open an up and open garage door but failed. Also, in Diss three shop premises were burgled by smashing the front window and stealing articles in the window displays. The police have arrested two suspects but please remember the police will carry out a free security survey to all residential and commercial premises on request - call 0845 456 4567. People are still leaving cycles unlocked and expect to have them on their return. Two learned otherwise at the railway station and the football ground. Issued 12/10/2006 There appears to be a telephone scam operating in the District where a company called PDS leaves you a message card purporting to trying to arrange delivery of a parcel and it asks you to contact a telephone number to arrange delivery. If the number starts with a 09 then it is most likely to be a scam and you will be charged at a premium rate. PDS is based in Belize and is under investigation. If you receive such a card from PDS do not call them but contact the Royal Mail Fraud on 0207 239 6655. Issued 9/10/2006 It's that time again when new copies of Yellow Pages and telephone books will be delivered to you. Last year many, including myself, received the books left on the doorstep with no effort to contact the householder first. It is inevitable that sometimes the books will have to be left outside, but the agents should be advised to put them out of sight and leave you a note to where you will find them. If you find that the books have been 'dumped' on the doorstep without an effort to move them out of sight and a note left, then complain to DEYA's agent representative Emma Sharples on 01189777245. Hopefully, the delivery person responsible will not be invited to deliver next year. Issued 29/9/2006 Be extra careful this weekend parking your car and locking your cycle as there has been a spate of vehicle crimes and tempted theft of cycles held in a shed of a school. Vehicles have been left insecure and in one case with the keys left in the ignition or door. One vehicle owner left the car unlocked for a few moments while shopping and returned to find her purse and phone stolen and a thief stole the tax disc from a car parked for sale on the forecourt of a garage. On the other hand, I am pleased to report that the police have had success in arresting 2 burglars for crimes committed in the Wymondham area, returning stolen property to their rightful owners and as this message goes out the police are in the process of arresting further offenders responsible for burglaries in the southern areas of South Norfolk. Remember to security mark your property to allow the police to return lost or stolen property in the unfortunate event of a theft. Marking kits are available from Home Watch on 01379 650773 Issued 25/9/2006 There was a report of a suspicious young male purporting to be from a gas company to read the meter in Skelton Road Diss, but when it was pointed out that the meter was on the outside of the building he left. He is described as short, no uniform or ID and wearing an earing. A cold caller was challenged a few times in The Common Fritton and although on checking he turned out to be a genuine salesperson he will probably not return to the village in a hurry. Well done Home Watch. In Norwich Road Poringland a caller trying doors to houses was challenged and after making excuses about looking at doors and windows left. He is described as 5' 6", late 30s, scruffly dressed and wore a baseball cap. In Gentleman's Walk Langley a burglar climbed through an open window overnight and stole a large sum of cash from clothing and in The Street Norton Subcourse a householder had his garage entered via the roof and the thief stole food from the freezer. Both the last two burglaries occurred o! utside Home Watch areas.