Crimestoppers call on us to help prevent burglary, robbery and theft

Crimestoppers are calling upon Wiltshire residents to help prevent burglary, robbery and theft across the county.

Each of these crimes inflicts hardship, shock, and loss, often leaving victims with the anguish of losing essential or sentimental items. The impact extends beyond material loss, instilling fear and, in some cases, physical harm.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of how the public can play a vital role in safeguarding their community, especially those who are most vulnerable.

Criminal gangs frequently target the most susceptible individuals, and Crimestoppers is committed to gathering information about those responsible for house burglaries, shed and garage break-ins, keyless car thefts, and those who use intimidation to steal phones, watches, or bags.

If you have any information regarding these individuals or those selling stolen goods, such as power tools and jewellery, Crimestoppers urges you to come forward—100% anonymously. You can protect people and property by speaking up if you know about:

• Planned break-ins or have noticed suspicious activity.
• Individuals selling stolen property, possibly through online marketplaces.
• People involved in phone or bag snatching.
• Anywhere theft of bikes or vehicles is occurring.

Share what you know by calling 0800 555 111 or filling out the secure online form via Crimestoppers-uk.org.

What’s the difference between burglary, theft, and robbery?

All three crimes involve the unlawful taking of someone else's property and often result in emotional distress, leaving victims feeling unsafe in their homes and communities.

• Burglary occurs when a property is unlawfully entered with the intent to commit theft.
• Theft involves taking someone's property without the use of force.
• Robbery involves the use of force or intimidation, where the victim is led to believe that force will be applied.

These crimes are not victimless; the trauma of losing valuables and the emotional devastation of an invasion or violent threat can be deeply disturbing.

Beth Simpson, South Central West Regional Manager at Crimestoppers, explained, “We are excited to launch this campaign in Wiltshire, working closely with local communities to enhance safety. The information we gather is vital in combatting crime and building safer neighbourhoods.

In our 36 years of service, we have never revealed the identity of anyone who has contacted us. You will always remain completely anonymous.”

For emergencies, or if you witness a crime in progress, please call the police immediately on 999 or 101.

To report crime information completely anonymously, visit Crimestoppers’ website at Crimestoppers-uk.org and fill out the secure, online form, or call our 24/7 UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111.

Rest assured, your computer IP address will never be traced, and for phone calls, there is no caller line display or 1471 facility.