Six arrests made on suspected car criminals after nearly 250 incidents reported in three months in west Ipswich
Car crime has become a prevalent issue in west Ipswich. Picture: GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCK PHOTO - Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Police in west Ipswich have been tackling a “significant rise” in car crime since October, officers have reported – with six arrests already having been made.
Police have made six arrests over the matter since the start of January. File picture: ARCHANT - Credit: Eastern Daily Press, Archant
For the three months of October, November and December, police recorded nearly 250 instances of aggravated vehicle taking, interfering with a motor vehicle and theft from or of a motor vehicle in west Ipswich alone.
Officers say most involve targeted attempts on vans to steal power tools or opportunistic crimes on unlocked vehicles, cars where items are on show, or poorly lit areas.
Inspector Kevin Horton of the Ipswich west safer neighbourhood team (SNT), said: “It’s a significant increase. The power tools has been going on for a period of months towards the end of last year. The car ones started peaking around November time.
“I wouldn’t say it’s a seasonal thing at all – it’s just that we have a group of individuals going around doing it.”
Insp Kevin Horton of the Ipswich West Safer Neighbourhood Team. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARY - Credit: Archant
Since the start of January, six individuals have been arrested.
Three Ipswich men were arrested on suspicion of burglary, and have all been released under investigation.
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Shane Wilson, 20, of Columbyne Close, Stowupland, was arrested for taking a vehicle without consent, dangerous driving, driving with no insurance or licence and while disqualified. He is due to appear before magistrates on February 7.
Two Stowmarket men were charged over two robberies in Ipswich. A 17-year-old has been remanded in youth detention until February 15, where he will appear before magistrates again.
Peter Gardiner. Picture: LUCY TAYLOR/ARCHANT LIBRARY - Credit: Archant
Billy Wilson of Hill Rise, was also charged with aggravated vehicle taking in Stowmarket, causing damage to the car, dangerous driving and driving whilst disqualified on the same day in Ipswich. He has been remanded in custody to appear before Ipswich Crown Court on February 2.
Last week, the SNT made it one of its policing priorities.
Peter Gardiner, Ipswich borough councillor for the Gipping ward, said: “There was concern about it and we are pleased they decided to make it one of the three priorities.
“It is [an issue], particularly in the Stoke Park part of south west Ipswich where it seems to be showing itself more than anywhere. It is one that is a concern for residents so it’s good they [police] are putting more resources into it.”
