9 January - 11 February 2008

I write to update you on Policing matters in the town during the past month. 131 incident reports were made. 29 of these related to the A38 and 14 other traffic related incidents within the town itself were reported.  3 reports of anti-social behaviour were reported.

19 crimes were recorded. These include -

• 3 criminal damage offences
• 5 thefts
• 3 assaults
• 5 burglaries - these include 2 thefts from sheds and garages and a break-in at Lloyds Chemists.

7 arrests were made. These include that of a male at the scene of the burglary at Lloyds in North Street, a male for assault and possession of an offensive weapon in Home Park and a youth for the theft of a charity box from the Indian Takeaway in West Street. Two males were arrested on 7th February following an offence of shoplifting at the chemists when a keen-eyed member of staff passed details of the car she saw them leave in. The men were prolific thieves and a large amount of stolen
goods from other stores were recovered.

Over the past fifteen months the Neighbourhood Team has made great strides in combating anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the town. The massive drop in reports of ASB and related crime reflect this . I have had many comments from residents saying how the general feel of the town has improved. However, whilst conducting our house to house surveys the fear of ASB remains real to many people. I can assure you that the Neighbourhood Team continues to see the tackling of ASB as a priority. We will continue to use our powers to sieze alcohol from those in the street, work closely with licensed premises and target individuals who cannot behave in a responsible manner. I would also ask residents to report incidents of ASB and criminal damage at the time. We often receive reports the following morning or even days later - we need to be made aware at the time to give us the best possible chance of dealing with those responsible. General reports and enquiries can be made using the 08452 777444 no. and 999 used in emergency situations, this includes where the caller thinks that a crime is being committed and the offender is present or close by.

I can be contacted at Ashburton Police Station via the central no. 08452 777444 and the Neighbourhood Team can also be contacted via e-mail -ashburton@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk