Published: Friday, 5th February, 2010 9:00am

Drug users blamed for rise in car crime

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A RISE in car crime in the Royal Borough is being blamed on re-offending drug addicts.

Theft and damage to vehicles in the area has risen in the past year and the town's top police officer, Superintendent Tim De Meyer, is laying the blame on addicts released from jail who steal to feed their habit.

Supt De Meyer said: "The last year or so has seen an increase in car crime. However, this is compared with the previous year, which was one of the best on record.

"Last year we managed to lock up a number of our thieves. They have now been released and sadly have not emerged rehabilitated."

"Many are addicted to drugs and, all too often, they turn to crime."

From April 1, 2009, to January 31, this year there were 2,054 car crime offences in Windsor and Maidenhead compared to 1,910 last year up 7.5 per cent. Last month figures jumped to 207 incidents compared with 159 in January last year.

The recent string of crimes is the second spate of car break-ins in less than six months with two or three suspected groups operating in the area.

Car windows have been smashed, wing mirrors kicked off and locks popped by vandals and in some cases thieves have been making off with valuables including laptops to cash.

Vehicles have been targeted in central Windsor, Clewer, Dedworth, Datchet and Eton. Police have now stepped up patrols and are urging residents to be vigilant.

Supt De Meyer added: "The Royal Borough has a Drug and Alcohol Action Team working to offer support, counselling and treatment so that they do not have to commit crime.

"Meanwhile, we are stopping and searching them at every opportunity, visiting them and their associates several times a day, arresting them whenever the law allows and building cases to put them back before the courts. The choice for the criminals is between seeking help or committing crime and getting locked up again.

"I urge the public to report any suspicious activity to us right away. That one sighting and description of a thief skulking about and acting suspiciously could be the lead we need. Meanwhile, do not leave valuables in your car."