Officers urging motorists to be vigilant in Stoke-on-Trent

We are urging drivers to be vigilant following reports of theft from vehicles in Stoke-on-Trent.

Over the past few days, we have received a number of reports to drivers returning to their vehicles to find items have been taken.

We received a call around 2pm on Friday (10 May) to reports that a bag had been stolen from the passenger side of a delivery van parked on Adventure Place, Hanley.

We also received a call on Saturday (11 May) to reports that money had been stolen from a car parked in a leisure centre car park on Scotia Road, Tunstall.

On the same day, we responded to reports that someone had broken into a car on Hawes Street and was looking inside. We went there and found a knife inside the car.

A 21-year-old man, from Stoke-on-Trent, was arrested on suspicion of attempt theft of a motor vehicle, criminal damage and possession of a knife in a public place.

He has since been released on conditional bail while enquiries continue.

Officers are reminding motorists on how to protect themselves from theft:

• Ensure all doors, windows and sunroofs are closed and locked

• Always double check your vehicle has locked properly before walking off

• Keep valuable items and money out of sight

• Where possible, leave your vehicles in clear view of CCTV and in well-lit areas

Chief Inspector Scott McGrath said: “We are aware of a number of reports of theft from vehicles around Stoke-on-Trent, so I want to urge drivers to be vigilant when leaving their vehicles.

“With warmer weather on the horizon, it can be tempting to leave windows ajar to let in fresh air but it’s important you keep windows and doors locked when you’re not in the vehicle, even if you’re away for a brief period of time.

“We’d also advise that valuable items like electronics or money, no matter how much there is, are kept of out sight or hidden away. Consider putting them in the glove box, boot or taking them with you.”

For more advice and guidance on how to keep your belongings safe, visit: Prevent theft from a vehicle | Crime Prevention | Staffordshire Police

If you have been a victim of theft, you can call us on 101 or in an emergency, dial 999. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.