Letter alerts motorists to thefts

Motorists who left items on display in parked cars have received a letter and crime advice from Suffolk Police.

Officers in Haverhill are carrying out patrols in areas where thefts from vehicles have been particularly high.

Letters have been sent to about 150 vehicle owners advising them of their vulnerability to criminals.

Insp Andy Smith said: "I am very disappointed at the high number of vehicles seen with items on display or evidence they have been there."

Thefts from 45 vehicles have been reported to police over the past two months.

Mobile charger seen

"Simply removing items of value from your vehicle and locking it makes it less attractive for a thief, yet hundreds of drivers in the town are continuing to put their property at risk," the inspector said.

"Criminals will break into your vehicle if they see something worth taking. If you leave your mobile phone charger plugged in, the thief will go looking for the handset.

"If there's a mark left on the windscreen after you removed your sat nav cradle, the thief will wonder if the unit's in the glove compartment or boot.

"If there's a coat on the back seat, the thief will think there might be a wallet in the pocket or something hidden underneath.

"But if there's nothing on display and the car is secure, the criminal is less likely to target your vehicle."