Distraction Theft from Vehicle - Sainsburys Car Park, Hoddesdon.

Distraction Theft from Vehicle - Sainsburys Car Park, Hoddesdon.

Dear Resident

At approximately 2:00pm on Sunday 13th October 2024, offender(s) committed a distraction theft from vehicle in Sainsburys Car Park, Hoddesdon.

At this time, the victim had just unloaded their shopping into a Grey Ford Ecosport parked in the car park and had got into the drivers seat, when an offender has tapped on the window of the vehicle stating there had been damaged done to the vehicle. The victim exits their vehicle and looked around the vehicle for any damage. At this time another offender has gained access to the vehicle removing the victims purse which was situated on the passenger seat.

Both offender(s) have then made off in an unknown direction.

Unfortunately, this is occurring more and more, so please be aware of this type of theft. If someone approaches you to get your attention away from your vehicle, like stating damage to your vehicle, or asking where the nearest doctors or vets is, please keep belongings with you and lock your vehicle.

If you or your neighbours have any information relating to this crime, or if you have captured any relevant footage on your CCTV or doorbell camera, please contact the police non-emergency number 101, quoting crime number 41/85760/24.

Alternatively, you can give information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity in the area.

Tips to prevent vehicle crime:

Ensure you lock doors and shut windows when leaving your vehicle unattended.

Always remove keys, even if you’re just stopping to buy fuel.

Never leave valuables in your vehicle, even carrier bags – not even in the glove box or boot.

Be aware of your keys. Don’t leave them unattended, or in pockets in changing rooms, or visible through your windows or front door.

If you have a vicinity key, keep it in a signal blocking pouch away from the front of your house.

Use a steering wheel lock to secure your vehicle.

Store car ownership documents at home, not in your car.

Secure number plates with anti-theft screws.

Be away of your surroundings and who is about.

For more detailed vehicle crime prevention information, visit the “Protect Your Property” section of our website: Preventing car and vehicle theft | Crime Prevention | Hertfordshire Constabulary (herts.police.uk)

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Message Sent By
Deborah Williams-May
(Hertfordshire Constabulary, PCSO Supervisor, Broxbourne - Hoddesdon)