News

A MESSAGE FROM PCSO MILLER:
An operation was carried out (Tuesday 15 July) in the South of Shropshire targeting people who may be involved in rural acquisitive crime.
Operation Whitebeam, which has been running since 2020, sees Safer Neighbourhood teams carry out high visibility patrols across towns, including 52 surrounding parishes of concern.
Last night’s operation was carried out during the late evening and into the early hours of the morning, which is when criminals are more likely to target rural areas. Officers also visited a number of farms, where they gave out trackers to assist with crime prevention, as well as offering advice to farmers and business owners. The team also visited fire stations as part of the operation to speak to fire officers about recent break-ins at stations across the county, where equipment had been taken. A number of vehicle checks were also carried out, which led to one vehicle being seized for having no insurance.
Inspector Damien Kelly, from South Shropshire’s Safer Neighbourhood Team, said:
“We started Operation Whitebeam back in 2020 to tackle rural crime in the south of the county, and also offer farmers that visible Police presence, which we also know can deter criminals. Over the past five years these high visibility and plain vehicle patrols have allowed us speak to the public about the operation, and how we as a force are tackling rural crime especially with the longer days now upon us. A number of local farmers and business owners were also spoken to, and crime prevention advice was shared and positively received. We remain committed to keeping our communities safe and we want them know that these initiatives are helping achieve this.”
Communities can take part in Rural Watch, which is a free scheme set up to support communities in the fight against rural crime.
People can also sign up to Neighbourhood Matters, our free community messaging service, to keep up to date with the work local policing teams are doing in their area: https://orlo.uk/bFF8r
Neighbourhood Matters is a free messaging service brought to you by West Mercia Police where you decide when and how you hear about the issues that matter most to you.
Information on ways to help prevent rural crime can be found on our website, anyone who believe they are a victim to report it to Police so that we can investigate. Alternatively, if you do not feel comfortable speaking with the Police, information can be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting https://orlo.uk/Aw4CR
Kind Regards,
PCSO 40646 MILLER