Police patrols increased to tackle Market Drayton vehicle crime spree
Police have increased high visibility patrols in an attempt to tackle an increase in vehicle crime in Market Drayton.
Several vehicles left parked overnight at the weekend were targeted in the town including two on Great Hales Street, one in Church Street and one at the town's Royal British Legion.
It comes after five cars and vans were broken into between February 28 and March 2.
Sergeant Tim Lever, of West Mercia Police, said: "We have been experiencing an increase in vehicle crime in Market Drayton.
"We have been conducting high visibility and covert patrols to try to prevent the crimes from occurring and identify the offender."
Sergeant Lever added: "Throughout the investigations into these crimes and other similar crimes in the Market Drayton area we have been working with victims and witnesses to detect any evidence that may lead to a suspect being identified."
A 21-year-old man from Market Drayton has been arrested on suspicion of theft from a motor vehicle, and has been released on police bail until April 13.
Police are also warning residents not to leave valuables on display.
Sergeant Lever said: "I have myself been a victim of crime where my car was broken into and items stolen so I know exactly how it feels.
"My advice to the public would be to ensure that you have no valuables on display in your vehicle.
"Suction marks on the inside of the windscreen and charging leads are good information to a thief that there is likely to be a valuable sat nav in the car.
"In the past I have even emptied my glove box and left it open to clearly show there is nothing in my car to steal."
He added: "I would also advise you consider looking at the security at your property. PIR lights are always a good deterrent and are relatively cheap and easy to install.
"What I would also advise is the use of SmartWater.
We had a similar crime spike problem in Higher Heath at the beginning of the year. I addressed the issue personally by creating a 'Smart Water/we don't buy crime' area.
"This was very effective in reducing crime and shows how good just the presence of SmartWater can be."
For tips on protecting against vehicle crime visit www.westmercia.police.uk/17096
