Warning to farmers as stats show rural theft rises in March

Officers from the Eden and Brampton Neighbourhood Policing Teams are urging farmers to be vigilant and increase security as statistics show that rural theft tends to rise in the Spring.

Figures from the last three years show that, in March, the number of thefts from farms and outbuildings rises, with agricultural machinery and insecure vehicles being the prime targets. 

In March 2009 there were 28 reported thefts from farms, outbuildings and rural properties reported in North Cumbria. In March 2010 there were 31, and in March 2011 there were 27. However, in October at the beginning of each of these winters there had only been an average of 2 crimes reported.

To tackle this late winter increase, Cumbria police are combining preventative measures with targeted policing patrols in rural areas to stop and arrest suspects. This is a safe and low level crime area and these plans help to ensure that this continues to be the case.

Inspector Dave Willetts, from the Eden Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “By farmers and police working together, we can reduce criminal opportunities and protect property and people from becoming victims of crime.

“It is essential that farmers and people working in rural communities take an active part in this plan by being extra vigilant. People who live and work in these areas know when something doesn’t look or feel right, so they should act on their instincts, and report anything out of the ordinary to police.

“If you spot any suspicious activity, call police on the new non-emergency number, 101, so that we can act quickly. Also note down the registration details of any suspicious vehicles you notice, as this can provide vital leads during criminal investigations.”

Inspector Di Bradbury of Brampton Neighbourhood Policing team added: “It is also vitally important that people increase their security. All too often we are getting reports of thefts of quad bikes and other vehicles that we find have been left insecure, with the keys in the ignition. We also receive a number of reports of thefts of high value equipment that has been left insecure in sheds and barns.

“We need to remember that thieves are continually scouring the countryside looking for an opportunist moment – and it only takes a second for property to be stolen.

“Officers will be visiting a number of farms who have been targeted in the past and will be checking their crime prevention measures, giving advice and information regarding security.

“Please help us to help you, and keep crime low in Eden and Brampton. If you want further crime prevention advice please contact your local Crime Prevention Officer by dialling 101.”

Farmers and farm workers are also being encouraged to sign up to the Cumbria Community Messaging service, which provides regular information about local crime, details of suspicious vehicles and suspected offenders, and provides timely crime prevention advice direct to your phone or email.

Cumbria Police will also be joining forces with neighbouring police forces to combat cross border thieves by exchanging intelligence and actively working together to patrol borders.