Decrease in crime, but burglaries continue to plague area

PERFORMANCE figures from Wiltshire Police show a 9% decrease in crime reported in the area.
The figures for Westbury and the surrounding villages compare the periods of March 2010 – February 2011, and March 2011 – February 2012. The decrease equates to 87 fewer reported offences/crimes. There has been a reduction in most crime types, although dwelling burglaries have risen by 42%. Lindsey Winter, sector Inspector said, “Burglaries to houses in Westbury and the surrounding villages remains a concern. Our isolated villages and nice houses will undoubtedly appeal to those intent on committing crime so it is vitally important that all those eyes and ears within our communities look out for each other. “Anything that seems out of the ordinary – vehicles loitering, suspicious people appearing where they shouldn’t be – needs to be acted upon, whether it is noting down car registration numbers, brief descriptions, times/dates. Report this to the Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator, or the Police, and your information will be gratefully received. 101 is the new non-emergency reporting number. “The increased reports of perceived anti-social behaviour are also the focus of the Neighbourhood Policing Team at Westbury. With the lighter evenings and the nicer weather, everyone likes to appreciate time outdoors and whilst this has to be expected, what needs to be remembered is a standard of behaviour acceptable to everyone whilst in public.”