Devon & Cornwall Police News site

Plymouth police are stepping up proactive activity to help deter seasonal crime and keep people safe over the festive season.

The public will see additional foot and vehicle patrols at peak times and locations, combined with plain clothes operations, and regular visits to shops and licensed premises.

The focus will be on preventing and deterring crimes that traditionally happen during Christmas, such as theft, violence, domestic abuse and driving-related offences.

Plymouth Commander Chief Superintendent Scott Bradley said: “This time of the year brings a wonderful hive of activity to our city. While Plymouth remains a safe and welcoming place, we’re aware that this busier period can attract opportunistic criminals. That is why it’s so important for our officers to be visible, accessible and proactive throughout this season.

“Our police teams will be focused on tackling and deterring offences which we know are likely to take place, including shoplifting, antisocial behaviour, driving-related offences and violence. Officers will be taking a robust approach to arrest and pursue offenders.

“Communities will notice a regular presence of officers on patrol, both on foot and in vehicles. Our patrol routes are guided by data, which means officers will provide a visible presence in places and at times when we know crime has taken place, or where it is more likely to occur. Officers are also going to be using a number of unpredictable tactics to identify criminals including plain clothes street patrols and shop visits.”

Keeping safe at night

There are a number of city centre initiatives to help and support people who may become vulnerable while out in the city’s pubs and clubs, including street pastors, Plymouth Student Night Patrol and the Safe Bus.

The Safe Bus will be running every Friday and Saturday in December from 10pm until 4am.

Anyone who needs to get out of the nightlife environment or feels unsafe can board the bus which is parked at Derry’s Cross. If you need medical care, or simply need to charge your phone to get home safely, the bus team can help.

Several pubs and licenced venues in Plymouth also operate the Ask For Angela scheme, promoted by Devon & Cornwall Police in association with Pubwatch and Best Bar None. Anyone who may be feeling threatened or unsafe while on a date can approach staff for help by asking for 'Angela'.

Talk to us

Chief Supt Bradley said: “We would encourage the public to speak with officers while they are out and about, especially if they have information to report. If you see something that doesn’t look quite right, see a crime being committed or have any information, then please speak with an officer. If a crime isn’t reported, then we don’t know about it.”

While the festive season is a happy time for many, it can also be a difficult time for people who experience domestic abuse at home.

Chief Supt Bradley added: “Domestic abuse takes place no matter the time of year. It’s so important for our victims to know that whatever day, time or location, we will be there to protect and safeguard you. You are not alone - we are here to help you when you need it. Domestic abuse perpetrators will be pursued and taken to court where evidence allows.”

Help protect yourself

The public can also take small but simple steps to protect themselves and their belongings.

“Crime prevention tips may already feel familiar but each one is an effective way to deter opportunist criminals,” added Ch Supt Bradley. “Criminals are always changing their tactics, so let’s work together to stay one step ahead. Above all, please stay safe and have a wonderful time during the festive season.”

Useful information:

• To report a crime online: Report a crime | Devon & Cornwall Police
• For crime prevention advice: Crime prevention advice | Devon & Cornwall Police
• For business crime prevention advice: Business crime prevention | Devon & Cornwall Police

Photo: Police officers pictured by the Safe Bus with Street Pastors and Plymouth Night Patrol