Two arrested after men reported stealing Christmas presents in Crosby

We arrested two men after reports two men were seen stealing Christmas presents from a vehicle in Crosby on Wednesday (17 December).

Just after 2.45am, it was reported two men were taking the gifts on Dorbett Drive.

One suspect was detained on Stuart Road a short time later.

Further officers conducted a search on foot on surrounding streets when a second suspect was spotted on Glenwyllin Road entering a vehicle and removing items from it.

The man ran off then rode away on a bicycle and was pursued by officers onto Crosby Road South. He was found shortly after in the grounds of Waterloo United Reform Church in possession of items believed to have been stolen from a vehicle.

A 41-year-old man from Litherland was arrested on suspicion of theft from a motor vehicle.

A 41-year-old man, of no fixed address, was arrested on suspicion of theft from a motor vehicle and handling stolen goods.

Both were taken into custody for questioning.

Neighbourhood Inspector Ken Sumner said: “It is despicable to think that anyone would target people at this time of year in this way.

“Officers responded swiftly and used their experience and local knowledge to search the area and contain the suspects.

“As a result, two men are in custody and suspected stolen property recovered.

“We will not tolerate those who callously target people wishing to treat their loved ones at Christmas in this way.

“I hope our response to this report and the determination of officers to ensure the suspects were detained demonstrates very clearly how seriously we take thefts in our communities.”

Insp Sumner added: “As part of Winter of Action, officers will be patrolling busy areas in town centres in Liverpool, Knowsley, St Helens, Wirral and Sefton.

“We are encouraging anyone who sees any suspicious behaviour to report it to us so that we can help ensure Christmas and the New Year are remembered for the right reasons.

“We are also asking anyone who owns or drives a car, van or motorcycle to be vigilant over the festive season.

“When you are out and about shopping, make sure you take your valuables with you, but if you can’t put them out of sight so they are safe.”

Advice on keeping your vehicle safe includes:

• Lock it or lose it – lock your vehicle and check you haven’t left and windows or the sunroof open
• Lock it. Pouch. It Keep it. Use a Faraday Pouch to help prevent keyless entry car theft – it blocks the electronic signal criminals can use to remotely access your vehicle
• Take it. Hide it. Keep it.  It is always best to take your valuables with you, but if you can’t, put them out of sight
• Do not leave your engine running unattended when de-icing or warming up your car.  If someone takes it while left like this, your insurer may not pay out
• Park in a well-lit area. If possible, park in illuminated and staffed car parks
• Fit good in-car security locks, such as steering wheel locks, pedal boxes and gear stick locks
• Keep your keys safe and out of view at home and away from your front door
• Double check electronic locking as devices can be used to jam the electronic signal from your key fob to lock your vehicle.  Always manually check your vehicle has locked before walking away

Always call 999 if a crime is in progress. You can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

You can also call 101 or DM us @MerPolCC or Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’.