Sheffield police inspector issues Christmas safety message to residents

Insp Jason Booth heads up the Sheffield South East local policing team that covers Beighton, Birley, Mosborough, Richmond and Woodhouse.

He has urged people to keep up their community spirit and look out for each other over the festive season.

He said: “My message to residents is please look out for each other and if you see anything suspicious, call us, you won’t be wasting our time.

“If you see someone trying the handles of car doors, or someone acting suspiciously in the early hours of the morning, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please do get in touch.

“Over the last year we’ve had some really good calls from members of the public, with information that in some cases has led to custodial sentences.

“Thank you to everyone who has got in touch and worked with us this year to help keep Sheffield South East safe.

“It’s all about communities and police working together and if you want to report something anonymously, you can contact Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Insp Booth added the priority areas over the last 12 months had been burglary, theft from vans and antisocial behaviour.

He said: “We’ve done a lot of proactive work around burglary, working in partnership with our local councillors, and given out a number of burglary reduction packs.

“We’ve made some good arrests, seen some custodial sentences and done a lot of crime reduction work including the management of offenders, including carrying out home visits.

“We urge people to continue to be vigilant, lock doors, mark property and remove valuables from view, especially at this time of year.”

Insp Booth assured residents that it would be business as usual on Christmas Day for the Sheffield South East policing team.

“Some members of the team will have a late Christmas dinner, some won’t have a Christmas dinner, but like all the emergency services, there will be a 24-hour service as usual.

“I would ask people to make special effort to look after vulnerable people, whether you have an elderly neighbour or relative that may need a bit of extra support.

“Our team will be on hand to help make it a safe Christmas and New Year for everyone and on behalf of everyone, I’d like to wish all residents a very happy Christmas.”