Offenders won’t ruin one child’s Christmas

Alex, from Chester, suffered terrible nightmares after his dad’s bike and his bike trailer were stolen by heartless thieves last summer while he was enjoying a family day out at Chester Zoo.

The theft of his bike left Alex feeling distraught, unable to sleep and increased his fears that the ‘robbers’ would come to his house. Now, Alex wants to help other young children avoid being upset and worried just like he was and has written a personal Christmas card to all the burglars across the county.

Alex’s mum said: “Like many young children his age, Alex would often have bad dreams and began to worry about ‘robbers’ breaking into our home. We spent a lot of time talking to him about how we keep our home safe and putting his worries at ease which made him a lot happier. However, in July when his bicycle was stolen, Alex was devastated and those bad dreams and worries began to resurface.

“Designing this Christmas card has really helped Alex as it has made him feel like he is doing a good thing in helping to make ‘robbers’ behave and to ensure no other children experience terrible nightmares like he did.”

Alex has now asked all police officers to pass on his message as part of the force’s ‘All we want for Christmas…’ campaign by sending the Christmas card to all offenders across the county. Throughout the festive period, Alex’s Christmas card will be posted and hand delivered by police community support officers to all prolific and priority offenders. It will also be given to known criminals who come into custody.

Superintendent Peter Crowcroft, who oversees the force’s neighbourhood policing, said: “Hearing the heartbreaking impact thieves had on Alex when they stole his bicycle will touch many people across the county.

“It is incredibly brave and touching of Alex to turn how these criminals made him feel into a positive and to try and prevent other children from having to feel the same way.

“I hope when offenders read his words it will make them stop and think twice about the impact their crimes can have on victims and communities, and stop them ruining a family’s Christmas.”

Police & Crime Commissioner David Keane said: “Through Alex’s courage offenders across the county will be able to get a better understanding of the devastating effects of their behaviour on their victims.

“I really hope that every offender who receives the card takes the time to read and think about Alex’s words and make the choice to be a positive member of our community rather than making the decision to continue to ruin people’s lives.

“Finally I would like to say a big thank you to Alex for sharing his experiences.”