Recent statistics prepared by Hertfordshire Police for the Parish Council show that overall reported crime last year has dropped. For the Bovingdon, Flaunden, Chipperfield and Bourne End area figures for 2004 are: 37 house burglaries (53 in 2003); 63 other burglaries (87 in 2003); 141 thefts from motor vehicles (190 in 2003) and 40 thefts of motor vehicles (60 in 2003).
Theft from and of cars remains the largest number of local crimes. Many can be prevented or thwarted by making sure that you never leave your car unlocked (however briefly you may leave it), keeping it in a secure garage, installing an immobiliser, making sure that your car keys are kept out of sight in your house, and removing all valuables from your car when you park. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR HANDBAG, LAPTOP, MOBILE PHONE OR ANYTHING ELSE OF VALUE IN YOUR CAR. It’s horrible to think that thieves are constantly on the watch for stealable items – do your bit by removing anything that may tempt them and prevent the distress, inconvenience and cost of loss. Watch Out – There are Thieves About.