Knowle Weekly Update - 16/03/26

Hello, 

This week we have been out on patrol with our volunteers from Streetwatch, showing a visible presence in the community and helping to make residents feel safer.

We have conducted a number of Speedwatch sessions around Knowle and sent out warning letters to all those who have been caught speeding. 

We also had our monthly beat surgery where key ideas were raised about rejuvenating the Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) scheme to help communities feel safer. We will be trying to implement more NHW schemes and get back in touch with those already present to see how we can work closer together moving forward.

What crime has happened in the last 9 Days?

Offender has stolen the rear registration plate from vehicle.

Offenders have approached the property, moving CCTV cameras to hide movements. No entry gained and nothing stolen/damaged.

Crime prevention advice:

We are starting to see an increase in both burglaries and vehicle crime. Crime prevention is all about trying to make your home and belongings less desirable to anyone else.

Anti-snap locks are extremely useful as it prevents such easy access to your home. All you have to do is switch out the barrel in your lock for an anti-snap one, no need to change the whole door or handle. This simple change can prevent offenders from snapping the lock and simply walking into your home.

Most vehicle thefts are through keyless entry. Offenders can use what is a called a “relay device” to scan for your key’s signal. They can copy that signal onto a blank key and use that to enter your vehicle. This is how easy it is for offenders to drive away in your vehicle. To prevent this, you can use a Faraday bag which has a specific lining that blocks the signal from the relay device. Make sure to keep your key in the faraday bag – even when going to the shops!

To give your vehicle that added layer of protection, a steering wheel lock acts as both a visible deterrent as well as an extra obstacle offenders must get through. Most offenders would be put off attempting to steal your vehicle when they see a steering wheel lock as it adds that extra time and effort they would need to try and get it off. There have been many cases where offenders have been able to enter a vehicle but then struggled to get through the steering lock.

CCTV is a really useful tool for us to use in investigations as it allows us to see the offence happening, any offenders and what they are wearing or a direction of travel in their escape. If you haven’t already, sign up to our CCTV registry to receive alerts when your footage may help us with incidents in your area - CCTV Registry | West Midlands Police

What are we up to next week?

Follow us on X - @ruralswmp to see what we are getting up to day to day.

Email the team at rural@westmidlands.police.uk for any questions, concerns, advice or engagements.

Thank you for your continued support,

PCSO Kiah Acton 31911