'Think twice' over bargain goods

An advert drives home the stolen goods message

Scotland's police forces are on the campaign trail to persuade shoppers to think twice before buying so-called bargains from street sellers, car boot sales and inside pubs.

They believe that some members of the public do not ask enough questions about the origins of such goods, which are often the products of a car theft or house break-in.

Andrew Brown, chief constable of Grampian Police, said that people who buy a dodgy DVD or mobile phone become part of the cycle of crime, although they might not see it that way.

He added: "Each of these thefts represents a story of emotional pain and suffering for the victims.

"In many cases the victims have lost treasured family possessions which have been passed down through generations and, although perhaps not of high monetary value, are irreplaceable in terms of sentimental value."

Anyone who buys stolen goods commits a crime - the legal term is reset - but many unwitting criminals see it simply as a bargain.

The deals are often carried out in a public place such as bars, car parks, side streets and car boot sales and the products can range from wrist watches to TVs, hi-fis and DVDs.

Thousands of victims

The campaign to open up the public's eyes to the fact that "someone always pays for stolen property" comes as research suggests one fifth of Scots would consider buying goods which may have been stolen.

The research for the Safer Scotland campaign suggests almost one million people would take advantage of a bargain without questioning its origins.

Last year in Scotland there were 186,600 victims of various forms of theft and if attempted thefts are taken into account the figure rises to more than 215,000.

But how do people know the difference between a genuine street trader and one who wants to off-load stolen goods?

Safer Scotland says the public should ask 10 key questions before making their purchases.

They include:

• do the goods come without a receipt and guarantee?

• does the trader look disreputable?

• are there any security marks on the goods?

• is the item incomplete, no remote control for instance?

• will the trader only accept cash?

• does the price seem too good to be true?

• are there any security marks on the goods?

• where should I avoid buying? (The simple answer is anywhere that makes you feel uncomfortable)

• when is it okay to buy second hand goods? (Most second hand dealers are reputable and usually licensed by the local authority)

• what can I do to help?

Police have advised anyone who suspects goods are stolen to telephone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The Safer Scotland campaign runs throughout October.