In the past, we have believed that crime goes under reported in Chislehurst and this certainly seems to be the case.
Following residents reporting several incidents since the New Year, to us and on social media, of groups trying the handles of vehicles parked on driveways, we have been in contact with our Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT). They have checked overnights and reports from 1st January and advise that there is only one report (on Green Lane for theft from a vehicle where suspects gained access to the victim’s locked vehicle without causing any damage and took two low value items).
The SNT confirm they will carry out targeted patrols on their late shifts in the light of information we have passed on, but advise residents to report ALL incidents to the police. Quite simply if the police are not notified, they don’t know about it and cannot be expected to respond!
People trying door handles of properties and vehicles warrants a call to 999 and we are advised is very likely to get a rapid response.
If you have picked up activity overnight on your cctv or your door cam, you can still report this after the event and we would urge you to do so to inform the police where the areas of activity are. You can report by calling 101or going online at Report a crime | Metropolitan Police If you wish to remain anonymous, residents can also contact Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or report to Crimestoppers online through their website.
We have also had reports on Sunday of so called “Nottingham Knockers”, selling cleaning products door to door. The police again ask residents to call them and provide any details they may have of the suspects and their vehicles. They often move out quickly and do not return for some time but are likely to target residents who have fallen victim to them previously. We have also alerted Trading Standards to this issue.
If you wish to come along to the next Ward Panel on Thursday, 23rd January at 6.30pm to discuss local crime matters with the SNT, please email Alison at Alison.Stammers@bromley.gov.uk for details to be sent to you. As Ward Councillors, we will also be there.
The next SNT Community Contact session takes place on Thursday, 30th January at 11am at Chislehurst Library (temporary site at Hornbrook House behind the car park at the top of the High Street). The SNT will be happy to see you and discuss any concerns you have about crime and anti social behaviour in our area.
Cllr Mike Jack
Cllr Mark Smith
Cllr Alison Stammers
