Knowle Weekly Update - 04/04/26

Knowle Weekly Update - 04/04/26

Hello,

This week we worked hard on an operation at the NEC to inform the public about the recent car crime and how best to protect their vehicles. We gave out information leaflets, anti-theft screws for registration plates and catalytic converter marking kits.

During this operation we also went around the local hotels to discuss Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE). We gave out more information for the staff at these hotels and forged stronger links to make sure that they are aware of the signs and can contact us as soon as possible.

What crime has happened in the last 9 Days?

Criminal Damage to vehicle – 31/03 – Warwick Road

Rear and side window of vehicle smashed

Burglary of a business – 31/03 – High Street

Front door window smashed and the till stolen

Attempted residential burglary – 31/03 – Whiteslade Close

Offenders attempted to snap the lock of the rear door, no entry gained

Residential burglary – 03/04 – Warwick Road

Offenders have smashed the rear door and attempted to take the keys for the fiat parked at the address. Offenders were subsequently arrested at the scene.

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?

We will be hosting another Beat Surgery at Knowle Masonic Centre on Sunday 12th April at 4pm. Come and stop by to discuss any concerns or issues with the team.

We will be joining our Streetwatch volunteers for a patrol around Knowle on Monday 13th April.

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

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Kiah Acton 31911
(Police, PCSO, Solihull Rural NHT)