News and Events 

Theft of firearm from vehicle - Newbury

Friday 13 February 2009, 2:48pm

Police are warning legitimate firearms licence holders not to leave their firearms unattended in vehicles, after a rifle was stolen from a vehicle in Newbury on Wednesday (11/2).

The theft of the .22 rifle happened between 7.30pm and  9.10pm. The rifle, which was covered by a coat, was stolen from a grey Vauxhall Astra, parked on Church Road.  

Romy Freiburghaus, Crime Reduction Advisor for West Berkshire said: “This careless behaviour does not only make you a victim of crime, but you also potentially endanger other people’s life through your negligence.

“Never leave anything on display in your car. Even an item covered up on the back seat is a temptation for someone to ‘smash and grab’, which this week’s incident proves.

“By following this simple rule you can minimize the risk of becoming a victim of car crime.”

For further advice, contact your local crime reduction advisor on 0845 8 505 505 or visit the website www.crimereduction.homeoffice.gov.uk

Anyone with any information should contact PC Adam Gidley Smith via the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505. If you don’t want to speak to police or leave your name, call the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Berkshire West Communications Team
0118 953 6191