Extra patrols to beat car crime

There will be a mobile police unit set up in hotspots

Car crime on Teesside has escalated in the past six weeks forcing police to increase their patrols.

Vandals are targeting vehicles in Ayresome, Gresham and Middlehaven, causing thousands of pounds of damage.

Officers are patrolling the areas, targeting prolific offenders and giving advice to local residents and businesses that deliver goods.

Acting Insp, Mark Hall, said they were also working with council truancy officers in a bid to catch offenders.

He said: "We have listened to local residents and, in response, will be increasing patrols in the area and proactively targeting prolific vehicle crime offenders who are blighting the area.

"There will also be a mobile police unit present in hotspot areas and we will be working closely with local housing enforcement officers and we will issue anti-social behaviour contracts where necessary."