Officers putting the brakes on bicycle theft in week-long crackdown

The campaign will run from Monday until Sunday, October 10-16 and will see officers issuing more than 800 free security kits as well as advice and tips on how to ensure bikes are kept safe and secure from thieves.

It is the latest phase of the Constabulary’s ‘Shield’ campaign, which focuses on providing essential crime prevention advice and deterring thieves from committing their crimes across our county.

Officers want cyclists across Cheshire to help prevent bicycle thefts rising as winter begins to approach and the evenings become darker by taking the protective measures offered by police officers in your neighbourhood.

Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Boycott said: “As the dark nights draw in we want to ensure cyclists are extra vigilant and aware of how they can better protect their property and prevent it from being stolen.

“In particular, we would ask people to ensure that their bikes are stored securely with quality bike locks if possible. Make sure you keep your bike in a shed overnight – making sure it’s properly locked up – or if you don’t have a shed then make sure it’s out of sight.

“The bike marking kits are an excellent way to make it difficult for thieves to sell the bikes on, enabling officers to identify the owners of the stolen property so it can be easily returned. Seeing a bike with property marking will make it a less attractive target for thieves.

“I would encourage cyclists and those who may be looking to buy a bike in the run up to Christmas, to speak to officers who will be across the county with lots of helpful advice and tips and get their hands on a security kit.”

Police & Crime Commissioner David Keane added: “As I have spoken to residents across Cheshire, crime prevention has been an issue that many people have wanted to discuss. Our police service is clearly there to enforce the law and bring offenders to justice but there is also work to be undertaken in our communities to prevent crime and deter criminals. This is why crime prevention features as one of the main priorities within my draft Police & Crime Plan.

“Initiatives, such as the ‘Shield’ campaign, have an important part to play in taking these plans and putting them into action across the county. If you own a bike – speak to an officer, get involved and work with our police service to help prevent and deter crime in our communities.”

The Shield campaign has previously focused on placing a protective shield around homes and businesses, with thousands of residents issued with SelectaDNA property marking kits residents to protect their homes and belongings.

Further information on how to prevent bicycle theft can be found on the Cheshire Constabulary website at www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/bicycle-safety-and-security/

Anyone reporting a bicycle being stolen can contact Cheshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111.