Scotland Crimestoppers has achieved a five percent rise in calls and a twenty-five percent increase in arrests and charges over the last year of April 2010 – March 2011.

Jim Ferguson Chair of Highlands and Islands and Crimestoppers Scotland said: “A huge thank you must go to people across Scotland for using the charity to pass on information about crime. We’re extremely proud that Crimestoppers continues to play such a vital role in helping to make our local communities a safer place to live. I particularly want to thank those people and organisations in the Highlands and Islands for their continued support and involvement with Crimestoppers.

“I’d like to reassure the public that our service is completely anonymous and in the 23 years that the charity has been running no one has ever been identified. The service is run for you, the public, to help make your community a safer place to live. We’re not part of the Police or government, we’re an independent charity, so by contacting us you’ll never have to give a statement to the Police or go to court.”

A number of campaigns have been run both locally and nationally across all areas of Scotland over the last year including Countereit Goods campaign in the Highlands & Islands; public protection in Dumfries and Galloway; underage drinking in Fife; and serious organised crime campaigns in both Glasgow and Edinburgh. In addition, Crimestoppers has led a number of high-profile national campaigns to tackle crimes affecting the area including the cannabis cultivation campaign which led to increases in calls and detections after the campaign highlighted to the public the tell-tale signs to look for.

The recorded increases shows that the quality of information Crimestoppers has received during the past year has been of a very high quality, whilst there is only a five per cent increase in information, many more individuals have been arrested as shown by the twenty-five per cent increase this year.

Crimestoppers operates the 24/7 0800 555 111 telephone number for people to pass on information about crimes anonymously. Information can also be passed via the charity’s website www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Operation Respect is a partnership of the following organisations :

Highland Council
Crimestoppers
Inverness Crime Prevention Panel (ICPP)
Inverness Business Improvement District (BID)
Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA)
Inverness Taxi Association
NHS Highland
Pubwatch
Street Pastors
Northern Constabulary

These organisations are working together to engender respect for each other and for other’s property all year round, but especially during this festive period.

Operation Respect ‘s mission is to create a safe and clean environment for people, families and business within Inverness City Centre by preventing the occurrence of anti social behaviour with a focus on creating respect for the community.

Our aims are to:

• Reduce the fear of crime by ensuring that people feel safe from crime and disorder.

• Enforce the law in regard to low level offending for such offences as littering, dog fouling, street drinking, begging etc.

• Safer streets which experience reduced alcohol and drug related violent crime.

• Promote positive initiatives and diversionary schemes to reduce crime and the opportunity for crime.

• Evaluate the stated objectives and measures put in place to achieve them.

• Change in attitude and behaviour towards alcohol and drug consumption and that those in need are supported by prevention and treatment services.

• Target Inverness City Centre with a high visibility Police presence at peak times.

The Winter Festival was launched this year with Malice in Wonderland and many other exciting events are planned throughout for your enjoyment.
Please check out Winter Festival agenda on this link http://www.invernessfestivals.com/winter08/all_december_events.php:

With the Christmas holiday season almost upon us, now is a good time to
remind people to take steps to make sure your Christmas isn’t spoiled by criminals. This year we want you to have fun whilst out shopping or on your night out.

So what can we do to make sure we have fun and remain safe?
The Inverness Crime Prevention Panel have applied normal crime prevention advice to Christmas and this is often common sense, but you might overlook it in your haste to get everything ready

Out on the town

With office parties and general Christmas celebrations, pubs, restaurants and other venues are often crowded. Don’t leave bags over the back of your chair and keep wallets and purses close to your body to make it more difficult for the pickpocket. Busy places make it easier for the sneak thief, so be alert at all times. Make prior arrangements as to how you will get home. Avoid any potential disturbances on the street. Stay with friends if you can. Make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you will be back. Don’t drink too much – you could become a target for thieves.
Take precautions against Drink spiking – Keep your glass with you, never leaving it unattended and keep it covered.

Please do not drink and drive – to do so risks your own life and others and incurs heavy penalties, possibly prison and financially.

Late Night Bus Service
For the second year Operation Respect will be providing a bus service home after midnight enabling you to come into the city for an evening out without taking a car.

These late night buses will be running during the festive season on a Friday and Saturday.
The service will run between 11.30pm until 4am with a £2.00 fare.

Liz Gilchrist -Vice Chair of Inverness Crime Prevention Panel said  “I hope people will avail themselves of this service, it  will get you home safely after having a good night ‘out on the town’”  Click on this link for the time table:Night bus poster

Shopping Tips

Criminals take the opportunities afforded them by the extra shopping we do, the hustle and bustle of town centres as we rush around, and the value of the goods we buy as presents and store in our homes until the big day. We might also be more trusting and generous at Christmas when requests for charity are made, giving the unscrupulous a chance to collect for their own causes.
When the shops are crowded, the pickpocket has more chance to steal from you. If you can’t arrange to shop during less busy times, make sure you stay alert and be extra careful with your wallet or purse.
If you have too many bags you will be too busy trying to hold on to these to be aware of anyone stealing from you. You could try to make smaller shopping trips rather than do it all at once and carry too much.
Have your purse/wallet close to your body and don’t carry too much cash. The same applies to traveling on crowded buses or trains.
If you travel by car, make sure you park in a well-lit area.
Lock all doors and windows and do not leave presents in view. Try not to return to your car to leave purchases in the boot before continuing with your shopping trip as thieves may well watch car parks for just such a chance. Arrange to collect heavy items from stores when you have finished all your shopping.
Take care of your personal belongings.
Keep your chequebook and cheque card separately.
Protect your card Pin Number when making payments and cash withdrawals.
Do check the cash machine has not been tampered with ie an unusual insert at the card entry point or overhead camera strip.

**********************************************
Jim Ferguson, as Chair of Crimestoppers, in co-operation with Inverness Crime Prevention Panel, Police, Highland Council wishes everyone a very happy and safe festive period.

Finally, people should contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if they have information about any criminal activity. (Crimestoppers is a Registered Charity.)

Have Fun – Be Safe!

Crimestoppers is urging the public of the Highlands and Islands to call them with information which could help Police in their efforts to reduce the supply of illegal drugs in the region.

Northern Constabulary has enjoyed a successful year and has taken hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of drugs off the streets.

Both Crimestoppers and Police say they must not be complacent and have vowed to continue to target those involved in the drugs trade and any other form of serious and organised crime.

Crimestoppers’ National Training and Development Manager, Iain Froggett visited Northern Constabulary HQ last week to speak to Police and partner agencies about the work of the crime fighting charity and underline the independent charity’s commitment to helping Police tackle the drugs menace.

Mr Froggett was invited by Crimestoppers Highland chairman Jim Ferguson, who organised event.

Jim Ferguson Highlands and Islands regional chairman said: “I was delighted to have Ian Froggett attend today’s meeting which clearly shows the high level of support from Crimestoppers nationally for the Highlands and Islands region.

“The region has shown a 6% increase in the number of calls received over last year and a 40% rise in the number of arrests all due to information received from Crimestoppers which is highly encouraging.

“Crimestoppers is effective in the fight against crime and we are all striving hard to tackle the problems that affect our communities. Our board has been very active, regularly attending community council meetings and giving presentations to interested groups.”

He added: “We appreciate the dedication of Northern Constabulary and their support of Crimestoppers in our combined efforts to make our communities safer.

“Crimestoppers offer a completely anonymous way of passing information to law enforcement and clearly the Highlands is increasingly using the service which we provide to good effect.”

Mr Froggett said: “It is great to visit the low crime areas encompassed by the Highlands of Scotland, but to keep it that way, we need people to be vigilant. If they feel they cannot report information about criminal activity to the police for fear of being identified or because they are too close to an offender, then Crimestoppers offers the ideal means.

“We promise total anonymity to all callers whether they use:
Telephone: 0800 555 111 or choose to report online from our website www.crimestoppersscotland-uk.org/

Even the smallest piece of information we receive will be passed to the police and it may be the key to supporting a successful investigation.”

He added: “Offenders are the people who should fear the consequences of crime and by working closely with communities at large, with Crimestoppers volunteers and the police, we can help reduce the availability of controlled drugs and help in the prosecution of those who supply them.”

Deputy Chief Constable Garry Sutherland said: “We are grateful for the continued support we receive from Crimestoppers.

“Some members of the public may feel they cannot contact Police with information, for whatever reason, and in those circumstances Crimestoppers can provide an alternative solution.

“The Crimestoppers service offers people crucial reassurance that the information they are providing is being treated completely anonymously.

“Historically, information provided through Crimestoppers has played a part in the solving of a number of crimes in the Northern Constabulary area and we look forward to further developing that partnership, to ensure the Highlands and Islands remain among the safest places in the UK to live, work and invest.”

Ends

Det. Sgt. Joe McLaughlin of Strathclyde Police has said: “Thanks to a tip off made to Crimestoppers, we have been able to disrupt and dismantle another large scale cannabis cultivation. The discovery of this cultivation proves that by working together we can be successful in tackling this issue and making a major impact on the criminal fraternities setting up these sites.

He added: “It’s encouraging that local people know what to look out for and are proactive in reporting their suspicions. It may be that there are other cultivations in the surrounding area and I would urge people to be aware of the signs and report any suspicious activity.”

Since 2006, police have seized around 80,000 cannabis plants with an approximate street value of £24.7 million.

Despite these significant seizures, the problem of cannabis cultivations is increasing and the harms associated with it continue to present a major risk to Scotland’s communities.

Cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug in Scotland and the health impact on users is significant. The methods used to maintain cannabis farms are a fire hazard to the premises they are contained within and surrounding properties. In addition, profit from the supply of cannabis is used to fund other forms of serious organised crime, including human trafficking and counterfeit goods.

Led by Strathclyde Police, Scotland’s eight police forces, with the support of the Scottish Crime and Drug Enforcement Agency (SCDEA), the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) and the UK Borders Agency, have formed a national taskforce to detect and dismantle cannabis cultivations, arrest the criminal networks involved and seize their illegal profits.

Local people have a crucial role to play in helping to beat this criminal activity. If you notice anything suspicious,

contact Crimestoppers anonymously
with information on 0800 555 111.

The signs to look out for are:

• Windows of the property are permanently covered from the inside
• Visits to the premises occur at unusual times of the day or night
• People do not live in the premises and only make shorts visits, daily or weekly, to maintain them
• The cannabis or by-products, such as used fertiliser, will be removed in black bin bags or laundry bags
• Compost bags or gardening equipment may be left outside, usually in the rear of the premises
• There may be a vent protruding through the roof of a rear window
• There may be a pungent smell emanating from the premises
• There may be noise coming from equipment (e.g. cooling fans) in the premises

We help to promote the charity in communities across the region, to let people know that Crimestoppers is there for them as an anonymous route to pass on information about crime. Crimestoppers guarantees anonymity, which means that no-one can ever find out who passed on information about crime.

To pass on information about crime anonymously,
call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or fill out the secure, encrypted online Giving Information Form.

Scotland Crimestoppers is run by volunteers – each and every one is a vital link with the community in the region. If you think you’d like to volunteer for Scotland Crimestoppers, please fill out our Volunteer Enquiry Form.

Subscribe to the Scotland Crimestoppers RSS feed to keep up-to-date

Explore the different types of fraud and be aware of the biggest deceptions out there. Check out  latest news for fresh updates on fraud.

The Money Made Clear website has some useful information from the Financial Services Authority on current scams.

Follow these links to find out more about these scams:

* Advance fee schemes – letters or emails that offer you vast sums if you make payments up front
* Share scams (also known as boiler rooms) – a stranger rings you out of the blue and tries to offer you shares in a company you have never heard of
* Affinity fraud – investment scams that target members of a group, such as a community or a religious, ethnic, elderly or professional group
* Fund transfer schemes – money-laundering scams that tempt you to use your bank account by offering a commission. But you could wind up with a prison sentence too
* Online fraud (phishing) – fake bank websites that criminals use to try and get your personal details and money

Consumer Direct is a government-backed service offering free help and advice for consumers. It provides a range of information on detecting and avoiding scams and rip-offs.

The Office of Fair Trading has published information on ‘How to detect a scam’ and what to look out for.

The annual pre-Christmas drink-drive campaign is shifting gear this year, with the aim of convincing drivers that a conviction has the potential to ruin their life through legal and personal consequences.

Inverness Crime prevention Panel have teamed up with City Taxis with a joint initiative to promote the prevention of drink driving.

Working with City Taxis, thousands of beer mats have been produced and are in process of being distributed to pubs and clubs across the Inverness region in Scotland.

The message is quite simple  “Had a Drink? – Don’t take a chance with driving – Telephone for a Taxi!”

The campaign was launched this week, by Paul Lewis and Kevin Clark of City Taxis and Members of Inverness Crime Prevention Panel in Inverness City Centre.

Paul and Kevin said:
“We had both been extremely concerned about the consequences of drinking and driving for some time and thought the best opportunity to get the message across was at the point of consumption of alcohol.
We have nothing against those wishing to enjoy having a few drinks in their chosen pub, club or restaurant, all we suggest is rather than taking unnecessary driving risks, simply call a taxi”.

The possible consequences of a drink-drive conviction include:

The Law

If you are convicted for a drink driving offence you will:

- Have a criminal record
- Lose your licence for a minimum of one year
- You may go to prison for up to six months
- You may have to pay a fine of up to £5,000
- Have difficulty hiring a car within ten years of your conviction

If you are convicted of causing death by careless driving while under the influence of drink you face:

- Up to 14 years in prison
- An unlimited fine
- A minimum two-year driving ban

Other consequences:

- Face exceptionally high insurance costs once you get your licence back
- You may lose your job (15 per cent of those convicted do)
- Legal expenses
- Loss of personal transport and increased travel expenses
- Living with your conscience

And worst of all living with the knowledge that your irresponsibility has caused death, injury or severe distress to innocent people.

Do you know the legal limit for alcohol when driving?

80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood, or 35 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, if a breath test is used.

However this can’t be measured in how many units a person has drunk because everyone deals with alcohol at different rates. To be on the safe side, people who plan to drive should not drink any alcohol.

Liz Gilchrist, Vice Chair of Inverness Crime prevention Panel said:
“The message that drink-driving has the potential to seriously injure or kill has been well publicised. By highlighting the life-changing consequences that a conviction also brings, we hope to further deter those who may be tempted to drive after having drunk alcohol.”

“We need the support of the public and publicans to be able to make a real impact. If you know of anyone drinking and driving, please call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Your call could save a life.”

The objectives of the campaign are:
To increase the awareness of the personal consequences of a drink-drive conviction.
To encourage the belief that one or two drinks are too many before driving.
To reinforce the social stigma surrounding drink-driving.
Don’t drink and Drive!

As we enter the festive period it is essential that motorists remember that if they are going to drink they should either leave the car at home or get someone else to drive. Drink drive limits cannot be calculated and the only safe way is not to run the risk of drinking and driving at all.

Jim Ferguson, Chair of Crimestoppers Highlands and Islands said:
“Although only a small minority of motorists continue to flout the drink-driving rules, this minority of irresponsible drivers still accounts for one sixth of all road deaths in this country. I ask these drivers to consider the potentially devastating effect that their behaviour may have on innocent victims, and stop being utterly thoughtless.

City Taxis web site

With the advent of the Winter Festival and the anticipated increase in the number of visitors to the city centre, key strategic partners formed the Inverness City Partnership in March and include the Highland Council, Northern Constabulary, Inverness BID (Business Development District) and Safeinverness.

It was agreed they would formulate a plan to draw together support from a wide cross section of the community. This collaborative approach includes vital support from other organisations such as Crimestoppers, Scottish Licensed Trade Association, Inverness Bed and Breakfast Association, Highland Youth Forum, The Street Pastors and Inverness Crime Prevention Panel.

Representatives from Northern Constabulary, Inverness City Partnership and Safeinverness joined Inverness Provost Jimmy Gray for the launch of Operation Respect at the Victorian Market in the city centre this morning.

Inverness Area Commander, Chief Inspector Andrew MacLean, Chair of Safeinverness and Crimestoppers Highland chairman Jim Ferguson, Inverness City Manager, David Haas, Provost Jimmy Gray, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Inverness City Committee

Northern Constabulary, the lead agency in the Inverness Partnership, will be increasing patrols in the city centre over the coming weeks, ensuring a high visibility presence, particularly during peak shopping and socialising times.

Operation Respect has been hugely popular and indeed successful in other areas of the city already this year, having been run in the Hilton and Merkinch areas of the city in response to community concerns regarding anti-social behaviour.

Part of the scheme will include Inverness City Centre Partnership’s funding of the Nightrider bus service during peak times. The buses, which will service three main routes (Culloden, Smithton & Balloch; Hilton & Milton of Leys; Kinmylies & Dalneigh) and will ferry revellers home safely and out of the city centre.

The bus service will be available from 4 December and will run every weekend until the end of the year, including the busiest nights, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. The service will run between 11.30pm until 4am. Bus time tables will be on display in pubs, clubs and on the buses themselves.

The popular Taxi Marshall scheme will also be in operation to ensure safety at taxi ranks at closing time, supported by the Street Pastors, Safeinverness and the Police.

The Retail Task Team will be working in the city centre throughout the festive period to deal with all retail related issues with support, where required, from Northern Constabulary officers.

Inverness Area Commander, Chief Inspector Andrew MacLean said: “Operation Respect has been very successful in other areas of the city in recent months and we aims to carry on that success in the city centre over the busy festive period.

“We want to ensure that shoppers and those who are out and about over the coming weeks can enjoy themselves without fear of crime and feel safe. We must make it clear that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated by Police and we will take a robust stance in relation to this type of crime.

“People want to enjoy the festivities and not be worried about becoming a victim of crime. We would also like to remind people that if they are out socialising to drink responsibly and take care of friends and family, ensuring they all get home safely. The Nightbus service is very welcome and will ensure people get out of the city centre and home safely.”

He added: “We will be providing a high visibility presence in the city centre over the coming weeks and we are grateful for the support from the agencies involved in Operation Respect.”

Chief Inspector MacLean also has a message for Christmas shoppers, reminding them to be vigilant when it comes to vehicle security.

He said: “Although we will have increased numbers of officers out there I would urge shoppers to take the necessary precautions, such as ensuring they don’t leave valuables in their vehicles in plain sight. This encourages opportunist thieves. Christmas is a very expensive time for everyone, especially in the current climate, and we would urge people to be vigilant.”

Provost Jimmy Gray, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Inverness City Committee said: “Operation Respect” aims to complement our efforts in organising the Inverness Winter Festival by working with our partners in the police, ambulance service, business and the community to ensure that our streets are safe for people to enjoy the activities we are providing and that they are kept clean and tidy.

“We are seeking a buy in from the public to at all times demonstrate good citizenship by not dropping litter and reporting any inappropriate behaviour to the authorities.”

Inverness City Manager, David Haas said: “At the heart of the activities of the Inverness Partnership is the need to focus on the need to combine efforts to produce outcomes which improve the daily lives of residents and visitors to the city.

“Operation Respect is about enhancing the already high standards and more than meeting the expectations of those experiencing our city centre.”

He added: “This partnership approach also acts to provide support to the city’s businesses at a time when they are feeling the full force of the economic downturn.”

Chair of Safeinverness and Crimestoppers Highland chairman Jim Ferguson, said: “Safe Inverness fully supports Operation Respect and we are delighted to be a partner in this worthwhile crime reducing and safety endeavour.

ends

Operation Respect initiative was created to engender respect for each other and for other’s property all year round, but especially during this festive period.

With the advent of the Winter Festival and the anticipated increase in numbers of visitors to the City Centre the Council, Northern Constabulary and Inverness BID agreed to formulate a plan which would draw in support from a wide cross section of the Community. Partner organisations include:

Crimestoppers

Scottish Licensed Trade Association

Inverness Bed and Breakfast Association

Highland Youth Forum

The Street Pastors

Inverness Crime Prevention Panel

Operation Respect allows the Partners to link resources to enhance the amenity of the City Centre and provide (via the Nightrider Bus scheme – run with the help of Stagecoach) another option for a safe passage home for visitors to the City’s night time economy.

Street Pastors play a large part in the town centre providing an invaluable service every weekend and are on the streets until the wee hours, assisting those who may have problems.

Jim Ferguson Chairman of Crimestoppers Highlands and Islands, spent an evening with the Street Pastors just recently observing how the volunteers work and said:
“I was very impressed to see the Street Pastors in action as they went out to help those on the streets in many different ways. They were well received and their gentle approach seemed to calm certain situations down that may otherwise have ended in violence. Their outreach and care was inspiring and it was a pleasure to have been invited out to see how they operated.”

So what can we do to make sure we have fun and remain safe?

The Inverness Crime Prevention Panel have applied normal crime prevention advice to Christmas and this is common sense, but you might overlook it in your haste to get everything ready.

Out on the town

With office parties and general Christmas celebrations, pubs, restaurants and other venues are often crowded. Don’t leave bags over the back of your chair and keep wallets and purses close to your body to make it more difficult for the pickpocket. Busy places make it easier for the sneak thief, so be alert at all times.
Make prior arrangements as to how you will get home. Avoid any potential disturbances on the street. Stay with friends if you can. Make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you will be back.
Don’t drink too much – you could become a target for thieves.
Take precautions against Drink spiking – Keep your glass with you, never leaving it unattended and keep it covered.

Nightrider Bus Service

For the second year Operation Respect will be providing a FREE Nightrider bus service for home travel after midnight, enabling you to come into the city for an evening out without taking a car.
Please do not drink and drive – to do so risks your own life and others and incurs heavy penalties, possibly prison and financially.

The late night buses will be running during the festive season free of charge. The service will run between 11.30pm until 4am.
Bus time tables will be on display in Pubs, Clubs and on the Buses themselves.
Please make good use of this service.

Shopping

Criminals take the opportunities afforded them by the extra shopping we do. They prey on the opportunity created by the hustle and bustle of town centres as we rush around and try to take advantage of the value of the goods we buy as presents and store in our homes until the big day.
We might also be more trusting and generous at Christmas when requests for charity are made, giving the unscrupulous a chance to collect for their own causes.
When the shops are crowded, the pickpocket has more chance to steal from you. If you can’t arrange to shop during less busy times, make sure you stay alert and be extra careful with your wallet or purse. If you have too many bags you will be too busy trying to hold on to these to be aware of anyone stealing from you.
You could try to make smaller shopping trips rather than do it all at once and carry too much. Have your purse/wallet close to your body and don’t carry too much cash. The same applies to travelling on crowded buses or trains. If you travel by car, make sure you park in a well-lit area, lock all doors and windows and do not leave presents in view.
Try not to return to your car to leave purchases in the boot before continuing with your shopping trip as thieves may well watch car parks for just such a chance. Arrange to collect heavy items from stores when you have finished all your shopping. Keep your chequebook and cheque card separately.

Blue Light Discos are Proving to be Major Attraction

These popular events have been a great success with the next being on 20^th December. This next disco will be a special night called a Silent Disco and held at the Ironworks when the party revellers will have the unique experience of have music transmitted wirelessly to headphones.

The evenings have been generously supported by Next, Tesco and Mcdonalds with generous Raffle Prizes.

Liz Gilchrist, Vice Chair of Inverness Crime Prevention added:
“I was really pleased at the support received from the four national companies who have businesses based in Inverness, particularly Tesco who have been proactive supporting this type of partnership initiative throughout the country and encouraging safer neighbourhoods”.

Jim Ferguson Chair of Crimestoppers Highlands and Islands also thanked the companies for their generous support and said:
“I hope the Disco’s go from strength to strength as it is the type of event which is to be encouraged, proving that a fun evening could be had without alcohol”.

Steven Kerr of Inverness Business Improvement District and newly appointed Chairman of the Blue Light Steering Group said:
“I was delighted with the success of our events and we are working to encourage even more young people to attend future Blue Light Discos. Steven went on to say that visits would be made to all the Senior Schools in the area to promote future events to the 13 -16 year age groups.

Next event, Silent Disco: 20^th December, Ironworks at 7.00pm

Ticket Price: £4.00 or £3 (with a voucher from bebo/facebook)
Includes FREE Face Art and FREE Raffle Ticket.
If you purchase your entrance ticket in advance it will allow you free bus transport – Just show your ticket to the Driver.
BUY ONLINE:http://www.ironworksvenue.com or Contact 0871  789 4173

Left to right:
Steven Kerr – Chair of Blue Light. Pam Kennedy – Inverness BID.
Rhona Brindle – Community Champion – Tesco. Jim Ferguson – Chair of Inverness Crime Prevention Panel.

Crimestoppers in co-operation with Inverness Crime Prevention Panel, Police and Highland Council, wish everyone a very happy festive period.

Finally, anyone should contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
if they have information about any criminal activity and wish to remain anonymous.
(Crimestoppers is a Registered Charity.)

Inverness Crime Prevention Panel website for further information: http://www.icpp.co.uk

Have Fun – Be Safe!

Recognise anyone? You can help solve these crimes.
Contact Crimestoppers anonymously with your information.

Recognise this person?

Fatah BENLAREDJ

Location

National

CS Reference

CS0909-3345

Fatah BENLAREDJ is wanted for the rape of a 7 year old girl.

Stephen John BURNELL

Location

National

CS Reference

CS0909-3344

Stephen John BURNELL is wanted following a failure to surrender to custody.

Martin Anthony SMITH

Location

National

CS Reference

CS0909-3350

Martin Anthony SMITH is wanted in connection with the rape of a child under 16, gross indecency with a girl under the age of 16, indecent assault of a girl under 16 and attempted rape of a girl under 16.

Jody Michael FLYNN

Location

National

CS Reference

CS0909-3348

Jody Michael FLYNN is accused of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm.

• 
  

  Michael EDDLESTON

  Location

  National

  CS Reference

  CS0909-3349

  Michael EDDLESTON is accused of three counts os illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

• 
  

  Joseph Stephen MORLEY

  Location

  National

  CS Reference

  CS0909-3346

  Joseph Stephen MORLEY was convicted of conspiracy to import Class A drugs and was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment.

• 
  

  Benjamin MURPHY

  Location

  National

  CS Reference

  CS0909-3352

  Benjamin MURPHY is wanted for planning and executing the robbery of a jeweller’s where he stole trays of diamond jewellery and watches to the value of 1.6 million pounds.

• 
  

  Mark Ronald BROWN

  Location

  National

  CS Reference

  CS0909-3343

  Mark BROWN is accused of being knowingly concerned in the importation of Class A drugs. BROWN is believed to be the head of an organised criminal group that conspired to and imported, hundreds of kilos of heroin into the UK concealed within the feet of wooden pallets used to transport legitimate loads of quad bikes and motorized toys.

• 
  

  Paul WALMSLEY

  Location

  National

  CS Reference

  CS0909-3347

  Paul WALMSLEY is wanted for prosecution for the offence of conspiracy to supply class A drugs (heroin and cocaine)

• 
  

  Stephen Henry PITMAN

  Location

  National

CS Reference

CS0909-3351

Stephen PITMAN is accused of seven offences of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

How to give information

Crimestoppers is here for you anytime of the day or night.

You can contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or filling out our anonymous online Giving Information Form.

By phone

Call 0800 555 111 any time to talk to one of our experienced advisors. We will ask questions about the crime you have information on but will never ask questions about you. Talking things through helps you provide the full picture and makes sure the best use can be made of your information. It’s a good idea ring when you’ve got time to talk and you won’t be disturbed.

We will never attempt to trace or record your call – not even for quality control or monitoring purposes. We do not have the facility to use 1471 to find your phone number. If you are at all concerned reassure yourself by dialling 141 before 0800 555 111 which blocks your phone number. Or use a phone box – its free.

Because Crimestoppers is an 0800 number, calls are free and don’t show up on a BT or cable phone bill. Calls to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 are currently free from most existing mobile networks, including 3, BT Mobile, Fresh, O2, Orange, T Mobile, Virgin and Vodafone. We have been told that calls will not appear on any of these bills.

If you don’t speak English or if English is not your first language, you can still give us information anonymously via a translation service. Your call will be answered by someone who speaks English. You will need to tell them which language you speak.

Skype and internet calling services

We don’t advise callers to use Skype, or other internet calling services, when they want to give information to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. This is because we cannot guarantee your anonymity – other users on your computer may be able to find out that you’ve called Crimestoppers and it’s possible that your computer could be located by the IP address. As the anonymity of our callers is vital, please do not use Skype and internet calling services to call us. Instead, call 0800 555 111 using a landline or mobile phone, or fill out our anonymous online Giving Information Form, which is encrypted so that you cannot be traced.

Online

You can fill in our anonymous online Giving Information Form to give information online. We’ve provided some questions to help you tell us everything you know. The information will be sent to us over a secure internet connection which makes sure you and your computer, are anonymous. Our advisors read what you have sent us and will take out any information that might identify you before sending onto the relevant authorities.

Most Wanted

Appeals for information about people being looked for by the police can be found in our Most Wanted section. You can give information to Crimestoppers on these appeals either by phone, 0800 555 111, or online – just click the button on the appeal page. If you ring it helps us to have the appeal reference number, beginning CS.

Alternatively the police may give a direct phone number you can contact them on if you’re willing to give them a statement.

Police issued an appeal for information this week after the cat’s owner reported that someone had removed the hair and skin from her animal’s tail, which looks likely to result in amputation.

The incident took place in the early hours of Wednesday morning in the area of Millerton Avenue, Kinmylies. Police and Crimestoppers Highland are hoping that this new appeal, with the incentive of a reward, will encourage someone with information about this horrific act to come forward.

Crimestoppers Highland chairman, Jim Ferguson, said: “Such a dreadful act of cruelty is often indicative of someone who will go onto commit such appalling acts on people.

“I can assure members of the public that if anyone has information regarding who is responsible for this, we have facilities in place to ensure the money can be paid completely anonymously.

“We are not interested in the name of the person who may have information, we simply want the culprit caught.”

Chief-Inspector-Andrew-Maclean

Inverness Area Commander, Chief Inspector Andrew MacLean said: “We are pleased that Crimestoppers Highland has come forward and made this gesture in an attempt to garner new information in relation to this horrendous attack.

“Crimestoppers have clearly reacted to the level of public concern and anger in relation to this incident and hopefully the reward will encourage someone who knows something to come forward if they haven’t already done so.”

Police are continuing inquiries into this incident and anyone with information is urged to contact Police in Inverness on 01463 715555 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

ends

The charity’s end of year performance figures show that 85 people were charged with murder in the UK because of information passed to Crimestoppers.

This means one person every four days is removed from our streets for this crime.

There was more good news for Crimestoppers with an 11 per cent increase in arrests and charges due to our information across all crime categories which translate as 19 extra arrests every day across the UK.

Lord Ashcroft, KCMG, Founder and Chair of Crimestoppers, said:
"When I helped set up the charity in 1988 it was with the intention of providing the police with vital intelligence to help solve crimes which they might not otherwise obtain. Our promise of safeguarding the identity of all our users has established Crimestoppers as being an essential piece of the crime-fighting jigsaw.

Chief Constable Ian Latimer of Northern Constabulary commends the charity for its success. He said:
"Crimestoppers plays a vital role in helping to bring offenders to justice. More and more people are coming forward to report crime and the proactive work of Crimestoppers has given the public reassurance that their calls will be responded to.

Crimestoppers is a great support to the work of the police in Scotland. Their appeals send an important message to the public that their continued help is a key part in solving crime and making our communities safer."

Jim Ferguson – Deputy Chair Crimestoppers Scotland

Jim Ferguson added:
"I am delighted to see Crimestoppers continue to make such great progress Nationally. As the Deputy Chair for Scotland and also Highlands and Islands Regional Chair I am confident we can make a significant contribution to lowering crime and protecting our communities across the country. We stand firmly in support of all the Police Forces across Scotland and will continue to tackle criminals in a robust and effective manner."

Crimestoppers operates the 24/7 0800 555 111 telephone number for people to pass on information about crimes anonymously. Information can also be passed via the charity’s website www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
ENDS

For further information contact Hannah Daws, Head of Communications on 020 8254 3230 / 07900 694904 or Hannah.daws@crimestoppers-uk.org .

Notes to editors

Crimestoppers is an independent charity which helps the police to solve crimes, making communities safer. It does this by operating the 24/7 telephone number 0800 555 111 which people can ring to pass on information about crimes anonymously. They can also use our ‘giving information’ form via our website www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Around19 people are arrested and charged every day as a result of information given to Crimestoppers.

One person every four days is charged with murder.

Since Crimestoppers began in 1988, it has received over a million actionable calls, resulting in over 91,000 arrests and charges.

Over £167 million worth of property has been recovered and over £160 million worth of drugs. In 2006,

Crimestoppers launched the UK’s Most Wanted on its website which allows the public to view images of criminals and pass on vital information about their whereabouts.

It has been highly successful with over 500 arrests to date from 2.5 thousand appeals posted.

Crimestoppers UK was founded by Lord Ashcroft, KCMG, Chairman of Trustees.

In 1988, he launched Crimestoppers in the Metropolitan Police area.

Crimestoppers ‘call to action’ is built on a three-way partnership between the business community, the police and the media.

In September 2007, Crimestoppers launched a youth website www.shadowcs.co.uk which allows young people to give information anonymously online.

Test Purchasing schemes are designed to target the illegal sale of alcohol to young people and the irresponsible and anti-social behaviour that stems from that. By working together the Force and its partner agencies can reduce the availability of alcohol to under-18s. Over February and March, Northern Constabulary will be carrying out Test Purchases in the Inverness, the Black Isle and Easter Ross areas.

The powers will be used on an intelligence-led basis to root out licensed traders who sell alcohol to minors, adding to alcohol related problems, such as anti-social behaviour and disorder. The use of test-purchasing initiative aims, together with other areas of pro-active work with youths and youth groups by Police and partners, to reduce incidents of anti-social behaviour across Inverness and the Highlands.

The scheme consists of a fully briefed teenager (under 18 years of age) entering a licensed premises under controlled conditions and in line with ACPOS agreed guidelines to purchase alcohol. If the proprietor does not ask the person their age and allows them to purchase alcohol they will be committing an offence, even if their excuse is that they thought they were 18. Licence holders will not be duped into committing an offence because if they, as they should do, ask the age of the test purchaser then the youngsters will answer truthfully.

Public houses, off-sales, and nightclub proprietors are reminded they could face losing their licence if they are found to be selling alcohol to anyone under 18.

The Police-led initiative is being supported by The Highland Council, Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Licence Trade Association and Crimestoppers.

Inspector Tom Ogilvy, Liaison Officer, said:

“Test Purchasing is a valuable tool in the fight against alcohol fuelled disorder and anti-social behaviour. Our communities are asking us to do something about this type of behaviour and test purchasing is just one of the ways we can respond to those requests. It has been used successfully in a number of areas across the Force in previous months.”

He added:

“Test purchasing will allow us to identify and bring to justice those who are perpetuating the problem of anti-social behaviour within our communities for the sake of profit. The law is quite clear. It is an offence to sell alcohol to anyone under 18. It is not just the licence holder who is responsible but also all the staff working in any licensed premises. The message is Can’t Tell, Don’t Sell, It’s Your Responsibility. It’s an offence for anyone under 18 to attempt to buy it. Don’t be offended if you are asked for ID. Crimestoppers Highland is urging the public to help Police trace those traders who are breaking the law.”

Jim Ferguson, Crimestoppers Highland chairman, said:

“Crimestoppers fully support Northern Constabulary’s initiative in robustly tackling the problem of alcohol sales to underage youths. We are keen for members of the public to use the Crimestoppers anonymous number 0800 555 111 to pass information to our call centre with any information they may have of any off-licences violating the conditions of their alcohol licence.

“Underage drinking has serious consequences, sometimes causing long term health problems and more often than not leading to anti social behaviour. Crimestoppers commend Northern Police for taking such a firm stance for the benefit of all concerned.”

Councillor Margaret Davidson, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Housing and Social Work Committee said:

“We fully support the Police Test Purchasing Programme in shops and supermarkets that sell alcohol. This as an integral part of our joint initiative to address the problem of under age drinking in Highland communities.

“It is essential that we reduce the ability of young people who are underage from being able to access alcohol. While we recognise that most of our shops do adhere to the licensing laws appropriately and responsibly it is vital that the Police are able to target and deal with those that do not. Parents and other adults who may be asked to supply or purchase alcohol on behalf of those underage are potentially placing young people at risk and anyone who witnesses this should report the matter to the Police.”

She added:
“It is only by working together as a whole community that we will address the problems caused by underage drinking.”

Anyone who has information relating to the sale of alcohol to minors is urged to contact Police on 01463 715555 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Scottish Rocks Basketball

Starting in the Wick area on Tuesday this week, Crimestoppers leaflets will be dropping through letterboxes across the region.

The leaflets are designed to encourage residents, who don’t wish to ring the Police directly, to contact Crimestoppers to report crime related concerns or criminal activity, anonymously.

Crimestoppers are a highly successful UK charitable organisation, supporting Police initiatives across the Scotland, England and Wales.

Since Crimestoppers started taking your anonymous calls in 1988, they have received; more than one million calls with useful information which have led to:

87,385 people being arrested and charged with offences including murder, rape, drug dealing, burglary, robbery and theft

Over 600 people alone with murder

£103million of stolen property being recovered

Drugs with a street value of over £159million being seized

Clearly, your call does make a difference!

Since the Most Wanted website was launched in November 2005:

Over 1,600 appeals have been featured

400 suspects have been arrested and charged (one Most Wanted arrest every other day)

25% of these arrests resulted from the information given by members of the public

Speaking at the launch of the campaign, Jim Ferguson Chair of Highlands and Islands Crimestoppers said:

“Our towns and villages across Caithness, Sutherland & Easter Ross remain safe places to live and work. Let’s keep them that way.
It would be preferable, if everyone within the community was willing to stand up and be counted but, if for any reason, you do not want to give your name we will understand. You can still give the information anonymously.
We must work together if we want our towns and villages to remain one of the safest places to live and work in Scotland.

Notwithstanding this however, we cannot ignore that in certain areas a small number of individuals are intent on committing crimes of an anti-social nature, vandalism, disturbance, domestic violence & drug dealing and continue to conduct themselves in an anti-social manner, which can often occur when alcohol and drugs are involved.

Recently, cases of rented Highlands�s property were reported in regional newspapers as being used for Cannabis Factories. This examples the creeping menace of organised crime.

The message is clear, we must all work together to disrupt and deter those intent on such behaviour.”

Crimestoppers only want to know what you know about crime, not who you are.

The type of information needed is:

Names, ages, addresses
What they are doing and when
What cars or vehicles being used
Where proceeds of crime are being stored
Any information which would help catch the criminals

Maybe you’ve seen or heard something about a crime but don’t know what to do or would you say something if no one knew it was you?
Are you scared to come forward and be a witness?
Are you worried about what might happen to you if you talk to the police?
If you feel like this, it’s easy to think there’s nothing you can do!

Crimestoppers is available for you to make your community a safer place to live.

Anonymity makes the difference and the promise of anonymity has never been broken.

Talking to an advisor helps provide the full picture and makes sure the best use can be made of your information.

Remember, Crimestoppers is an independent charity and not part of the police. If you wish to pass on information about crime anonymously

Please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111


HELP US TO HELP YOU
Jim Ferguson – Chairman – Highlands & Islands Crimestoppers

REMEMBER IF YOU SEE A CRIME BEING COMMITTED
PLEASE TELEPHONE 999 IMMEDIATELY AND ASK FOR POLICE

PREVENT A CRIME OR HELP US CATCH A CRIMINAL

Blue Light Discos are to be set up on a monthly basis next year for the enjoyment of young people aged between 13 and 16 throughout 2009 at different venues.

The next event is to be held is a Disco on Saturday, 1st November at Spectrum Centre between 7 -10.30pm. Entrance £1

Please come along to the Blue Light Discos and meet your friends and dance the night away.

Where else can you go for a fantastic fun evenings in a safe friendly fun environment for £1?

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Organisations such as United Youth Group, Crimestoppers, Inverness BID, Brook, Street Pastors, Highland Council, ICPP, Youth Inclusive and Fire and Rescue Service support teams are also working to make this project a success.

The aim is to create a safe environment for young people aged 13 to 16 to enjoy themselves. Discos, Breakdancing lessons and instruction on how to use music decks whilst learning how to be a DJ will be some of the activities available. There are Football events to be planned for the future.

The police and youth workers will be on hand throughout the evening to make sure everyone has a good time in a safe and friendly environment. Police will conduct searches and take a breath test for all people coming in to make sure Inverness’s first Blue Light Disco is a success for all.

Northern Constabulary:

Northern Constabulary strongly supports and welcomes this youth initiative and its aim of providing an event, which is free of alcohol and drugs, to enable our local young people to enjoy themselves safely. There is clear evidence from other areas where Blue Light Disco are run, that they contribute to reducing the number of young people becoming involved in unacceptable behaviour.