Hampstead Garden Suburb - HOME

HGS Police Safer Neighbourhood Team

Contact Details

The Suburb's Police Safer Neighbourhood Team is based at Golders Green Police Station 1069 Finchley Road, London NW11 0QE and can be contacted on 020 8721 2984 or 020 8733 5525 or email gardensuburb.snt@met.police.uk. The team is lead by Sergeant Aidan Russell (PS 37SX). See www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods for more information about the Safer Neighbourhood Teams.


Area covered by the Garden Suburb SNT
(click for larger pdf)

News & Alerts

July 2012 - Bike Marking at Garden Suburb Community Library 5th July

Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team would like to invite all our residents to a drop in surgery that we are holding at the Hampstead Garden Suburb Community Library, Hill Rise NW11 on Thursday 5th JULY 2012 from 4 pm to 5 pm with the assistance of the Safer Transport Team who will be on hand to put security markings on your bicycles.

November 2011 - Missing Chihuahua called Milo

During a burglary that occurred on Thursday 10/11/2011 between 0930- 1700 hours on North End Road NW11, the victims brown/tan 20 week old Chihuahua called Milo has gone missing from the location. At this time we do not have any intelligence to suggest whether this pet has been taken during the burglary or run away through the open door.

Milo is a much loved family pet and has been described as having tan paws, tan cross on his chest and tan eyebrows. Milo has no collar and due to his age, there is no chip to identify him.

If you have any information regarding this matter or sight the dog, then please contact Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team on 0207 161 9016.

If you can not reach the Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team or the owner, please contact the police on 101 quoting this number - CRIS: 2427218/11.

July 2011 - New contact number 101

Just wanted to inform you that with just days to go until the public launch of the Metropolitan Police Service new contact number 101 - which is being introduced to improve services and accessibility - we are calling on all our residents to tell friends and family about the new number.

The 101 contact number is being introduced across the country, and in London will replace the existing ‘0300’ number. The MPS and some of our neighbouring forces will be early adopters with all constabularies in England and Wales going live by 2012.

Next Monday (11 July 2011) the new contact number will be publicly launched by Assistant Commissioner Ian McPherson and the Home Office policing minister Nick Herbert, and will be followed by a marketing campaign aimed at all Londoners.

The introduction of 101 is a major part of our commitment to giving the public greater access to the Met - 101 will play a significant role in:

- Helping communities to keep their neighbourhoods safe by giving them one easy way to contact their local police and to report non-emergency crime and disorder;

- Making the police more accessible to their communities, whilst reducing pressure on the 999 system and helping the police to put their resources where they are needed most.

- Helping the police to cut crime by making it easier for the public to pass on information about crimes in their neighbourhoods and allowing the police to take swift action

Calls to the Metropolitan Police Service existing non emergency number (0300 123 1212) will continue to be received, but it will be quickly phased out as 101 becomes established."

April 2011 - Crime Updates

Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) would like to inform all the residents regarding incidents that have occurred on the ward involving individuals who have falsely claimed to be from Utility companies & such callers we believe are looking to commit distraction burglaries and are known as bogus callers.

An incident occurred on 24/03/2011 at 1730 where a male represented himself as a Thames Water engineer and told the occupier that he needed to check the water meter. On 27/03/2011 at 1100 hours another male also attended the same property and also inspected the water meter. On this occasion, the informant contacted Thames Water and was able to confirm that they have an employee by the name shown on his ID, but no work was scheduled for this area.

On these two occasions nothing was stolen or taken from the informant’s property, however on previous occasions property has been stolen from homes when suspects have used this pretence to gain entry.

On 25/03/2011 in the area of  FINCHLEY ROAD NW11 at approximately 1200 hours, the elderly occupier was visited by a male who asked to read her meter. For approximately 20 minutes, this male kept the occupier in the kitchen, whilst he went throughout the house checking on the light bulbs.
He eventually left but it was only later (30/03/2011) when the victim noticed a large quantity of jewellery missing from the dining room.

Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team would like to urge all our residents to be vigilant when an individual (man, woman or child) comes to your door without prior arrangement with you first.

Please make sure that you use your door viewer or look through your window to see who is out there

If someone is claiming to be from a utility company, always ask for their ID card and call the customer services department to confirm their story. Any genuine caller will not mind waiting. If you are not sure then don’t let them in your property.

Most utility companies operate a password scheme and if it is something you will like to be part of, call the company you are with and set up a password. Any of their representatives will know this when they come to your house.

Be wary of anyone who claims that they are in a hurry and need to get into your home quickly.

At any time you feel unsure, schedule a time for the caller to come back again when a friend or relative can be with you.

If you are concerned a caller is not genuine please call police on 999 in an emergency or the non emergency number on 0300 123 1212

Thames Water:  0845 9200 888
British Gas: 0800 3277 119
EDF Energy: 0800 096 9000
EON Energy: 0845 052 0000
Southern Electricity: 0800 980 2475

March 2011 - Advice on dealing with squatters in your home

Latest advice from the government on how to deal with squatters:
www.communities.gov.uk/documents/housing/pdf/1868817.pdf

March 2011 - Garden Shed Tools

A couple of the burglaries that have occurred in the Garden Suburb ward have indicated that suspects have used the garden tools lying about. Even if you do not keep anything of value in your shed, burglars can use garden tools to break into your home or your neighbour's home.

  • Lock up all your garden tools in your shed with a strong chain that can be wrapped around handles and secured with a padlock or an anchor device that can make it more difficult to take property from the shed.
  • Make sure that the shed door, the frame and the walls are solid.
  • Replace any damaged or rotten areas with new sections.
  • Secure door hinges with threaded coach bolts with backing plates to prevent the bolt being built through the wood.
  • Replace any broken panes with laminated glass.
  • If the windows are never opened or used, screw them permanently shut from the inside.
  • Fit bar to the inside of window frames.
  • Fit closed shackle padlocks to the shed door using coach bolts with a backing plate.
March 2011 - PC Carl Mercer Moonwalk

On the 14th of May this year, PC Carl Mercer from the Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood team will be participating in the 14th annual Moonwalk (a 26mile overnight marathon) in aid of breast cancer. As is the tradition in this event, he will have to complete the walk while wearing a bra!! However, in order for him to overcome any embarrassment he may feel, he needs a good number of donations to make the event worthwhile. With this in mind he would be very pleased if any local residents would be happy to sponsor him. He can be sponsored via the following link: www.walkthewalkfundraising.org/Carl_Mercer

February 2011 - Drop In Surgeries at HGS Library

We will be having drop in surgeries at the Hampstead Garden Suburb Library at 15 The Market Place NW11 6LA at the mentioned dates and times:
17th Feb 2011 at 1500 - 1700
31st March 2011 at 1600 - 1800
21st April 2011 at 1700 - 1900
12th May 2011 at 1800 - 2000
An opportunity for you to tell us of your community and security concerns, quality of life issues and influence local policing. We provide Crime Prevention and personal safety advice, how to register your mobile phone, mark and identify your property.

January 2011 - Street Briefings and Drop In Surgeries

We are going to have some street briefings and drop in surgeries in the upcoming months:

Street Briefing
18th January 2011 Kingsley Close N2 1200 - 1300
20th January 2011 Linnell Close NW11 1200 - 1300
24th February 2011 Asmuns Place NW11 1300 - 1400
25th February 2011 Temple Grove NW11 1300 - 1400
23rd March 2011 Sheridan Walk NW11 1200 - 1300
24th March 2011 St Edwards Close NW11 1200 - 1300
Drop in Surgeries
17th February 2011 Starbucks - Finchley Road NW11 1600 -1800
21st March 2011 Café Tivoli - Finchley Road NW11 1500 - 1700

December 2010 - New E-Watch email notification initiative

Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood team is in the process of setting up a new initiative known as E-WATCH. This will enable us to distribute email messages from our team to local residents and businesses regarding crime prevention advice and also relevant appropriate information regarding crime in the local area. See here for more information and details of how to sign up. (pdf)

December 2010 - Ward Priority - Anti Social Behaviour by Motorists

 

Responding to the complaints from residents the team have been out carrying out traffic operations at various locations throughout the Suburb as identified by the local community. With the use of the speed gun device officers have had cause to stop numerous drivers and issue warnings and safety advice. These operations have taken place in the past few weeks on Willifield Way, Addison Way and Winnington Road/Holne Chase. The facts are the vast majority of the drivers stopped are residents of the ward with a few exceptions of those using it as a cut through. On a few occasions where speeds were excessive fixed penalties have been issued. Numerous other traffic offences have been detected by the team and vehicles taken off the road and seized by police for no insurance offences as part of the Met's Operation reclaim which aims to target uninsured drivers. Sgt Kelly said "I am very keen for my team to be proactive in this area and respond to complaints we receive from the local residents to tackle road traffic offences of speeding, uninsured and un taxed vehicles. I urge local residents to email or call our team and we will endeavour to set up future operations in areas identified to us ".
December 2010 - Increase in thefts from motor vehicles

It has come to notice that there has been a slight increase in number of thefts from motor vehicles in the ward. There are several things you can do to reduce the risk of being a victim of this type of crime: Make sure you remove all valuables on display from your vehicle; Check that vehicle is locked and secured; Activate your vehicle alarm (if you have one); Park your vehicle in a well lit area even if it means walking a little distance to your home address. If you would like to receive any crime prevention leaflets about this or any other matter, feel free to ring Garden Suburb SNT on 0207 1619016.

December 2010 - Xmas stall and safety talk

On the 22/12/2010 we are holding a xmas crime prevention stall outside Waitrose and on the 23/12/2010 we will be outside M&S on Temple Fortune from 1200-1330 hours. We are also having a safety talk arranged at Fellowship House on Willifield Way NW11 on the 14/12/2010 from 1430-1530 hours. All residents are welcome to join us on these days and grab some freebies.

November 2010 - Door step meter credit is a scam

Police are warning residents with pre-pay energy meters that 'door step meter credit is a scam'. There is only one safe and secure way to buy credit for your pre-pay electricity meter. From official outlets such as the Post Office, PayPoint or Payzone. If someone calls at your door offering to top up your meter, they are trying to involve you in illegal activity, and you could be letting a criminal into your home. Don't be tempted. Energy companies can identify homes using electricity but not paying for it legally. You will get caught and end up paying twice. If you know anyone illegally selling electricity meter top-ups, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.Any customer worried that they may have been affected should call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06, or their energy supplier or to seek advice. To find out more visit www.top-upsafe.com

October 2010 - New officers to HGS Safer Neighbourhood Team

As of October Sergeant Mark Kelly has taken over responsibility for Garden Suburb Ward. He has transferred to Barnet after serving for over 7 years on Brent Borough.
PC Simon Brooks has served on Barnet Borough for seven years and has an excellent knowledge of the area, he will be assisting the team until the end of the year. Over the past few months the team have been out on the ward tackling issues raised by residents, the priorities identified at the moment are motor vehicle crimes, burglary and anti social behaviour by motorists mainly by speeding. Garden Suburb have been carrying out plain clothes patrols in areas affected by Vehicle Crime and Burglary and will also be carrying out a number of operations with the Speed Laser Gun to deter speeding motorists, educate drivers and enforce the law where speeds are excessive.
At this time the team consists of Six Officers in Total, three Police Community Support Officers, two Police Constables and One Police sergeant: PS 54SX Kelly, PC 565SX Mercer, PC 946SX Brooks, PCSO 7202SX CIFTCI, PCSO 7218SX MELUCHOVA, PCSO 7351SX WHITEWOOD

July 2010 - Matthew Clee is new SNT Sergeant.
Sergeant Matthew Hinton has been been asked by a Chief Superintendent to work on a project elsewhere in the Metropolitan Police and will be leaving the Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team. From Monday 12th July Sergeant Matthew Clee takes over as Sergeant of the team.
July 2010 - Visit to Brookland School fete
 

On Saturday 4th July the team attended Brookland Junior School Fete with a police vehicle for the children to sit in, different style of police hats for the children to try on and various crime prevention leaflets and goodies for the adults.

May 2010 - Holiday tips
1) We are just about to enter a well deserved bank holiday weekend, and no doubt some of you will be looking to go away to try and find some sun ( the weatherman said you'll be lucky to find some here. ) Please be aware that criminals do try and target houses they believe to be empty. Take all necessary precautions before you go. Tell your neighbours of your intentions and ask them to keep an eye out for anyone suspicious around your property. It has been mentioned in previous updates, but timer switches for lights are a very useful tool. If you have nearby relatives or really trust your neighbours then leave house keys with them and ask them to attend your house on occasion to check if all is ok and to move mail etc, it gives the impression that the house is being used. All these safegaurds can also be used if you are taking an extended holiday in the summer months to come.


2) During periods of hot weather unfortunately cases of opportunistic burglaries increase. The number of these crimes can be reduced if certain guidelines are followed. If you are going to leave downstairs windows to allow airflow through the house, there are many types of catches that can be bought to stop the window opening fully, making it hard for a burglar to enter. Never leave the downstairs windows overnight. Be aware that if you leave rear/kitchen doors open while you are elsewhere in the house an opportunistic thief will see this as a target. It will only take a professional thief a matter of seconds to take something of value. If you have any upper storey windows that open onto flat roofs, again consider window catches or leave these windows shut where possible. Items such as anti-climb paint can help in preventing burglars gaining access to flat roofs. If you are sensible and safe then you should have a problem free summer.

March 2010 - News
1. A recent survey in which convicted burglars were asked "What would deter you from breaking into a house?" led to the following conclusion. The number 1 deterant was quite simply a house having a light on. Bearing this in mind, there is quite a simple solution. "Timer Switches" can be purchased quite cheaply from many off the high street DIY stores. Digital timer switches can range from about £10 for one or a pack of three for £15, non-digital timers range from £8 for one or £10 for a pack of three. These devices can be used to turn lights, radios or televisions on and off while the house is empty. If you take what the convicted burglars are scared of into account, then this is quite a cheap and simple deterant.


2. Over Christmas it became apparent that several burglaries occurred in properties that had been left empty over this period. While we are not saying it is unsafe to go away at christmas, it is clear that some advice could be given about keeping your house secure while you are away for long periods of time. If you have a trusted friend or neighbour ask them if they can go into your house at regular intervals to move mail and anything else that may indicate that you are away. Place timer switches on appliances in the house to give the appearance that people are in. Keep your wheelis bins away from the front of the house as this will stop criminals from using them to gain entrance to rear gardens. Make sure your boundries are well secured. If you want further advice, please check on the Garden Suburb safer neighbourhood site to see where our regular street briefings and surgeries are taking place and we can speak to you personally.


3. There has been an increase in the theft of number plates from cars recently. Not only can this be inconveniant to the victim, but can lead to a number of fines being sent to the victim when they have in fact not done anything wrong. If the criminals fix the number plate to another car and commit offences, the fines for these offences will be sent to the registered keepers address. It can also lead to cases of mistaken identity. If a criminal has used stolen number plates on a car that they have then used to commit a crime then the original owner of the plates could unwittingly be stopped by police who may believe the victim is in fact the person who comitted the crime! This problem can be easily rectified by fixing the number plate to the car using " Anti theft Number Plate Bolts " These can be purchased from a number of outlets, including companies such as halfords. They cost about £6 and will prevent this type of crime.


4. Door step scam: There have been two new scams to be made aware off. The first involves someone who is visiting business addresses and is offering to sell advertising space in a police magazine for a few pounds. He then takes the money and leaves the person out of pocket. There is no police endorsed magazine that will collect money in this fashion. Please do not give money to people calling on your doorstep.


5.Scam via the phone: A person contacts you stating that they are from the security company who are looking after your credit card account. They already have your card number and name and repeat this to you in order to make you feel at ease. They then state that they have noticed an unusual transaction on your account and ask you to confirm if you have bought an item for about £450. You obviously say no at this point. They will then try and relax you even more at this point by saying, "if you are worried about who you are talking to, please call the phone number on the back of the card to confirm what they are saying is true." At this point you should take their advice, put down the phone and call the card company, unfortunately most of us are more trusting and think that the nice person on the end of the phone most be really from the card company or they wouldn't have suggested this course of action. Now they have your trust, they come to the point of why they called and try to get the information they require. They will ask you to confirm your security number on the rear of the card so they can be sure they are speaking to the right person. If you give this to them then they will have your name, card number and security number. They will also have licence to go on an internet spending spree using your account. Never give any bank account details out over the phone to someone who has called you. Never call "a bank" back on a number they have given over the phone, always call the number on the back of your card or on your bank statements, they will transfer you to the correct department. Be aware that there will always be someone coming up with new ideas on how to scam you out of your money.

March 2010 - School visits
PC Carl Mercer & PC Matt Clee visited Christ College School with a laptop from the company Immobilise which is a UK property register that allows people to record the serial number of the phone on a central database so that if it is stolen then Police can re-trace the original owner.
The two officers have also been to King Alfred School and again recorded details for students onto the database. A police car was also taken to the school for the younger students to have a look and play with!
February 2010 - New Police Constable for Garden Suburb
PC Matthew Clee has recently joined the Garden Suburb team having previously been on the response team for Barnet Borough. Matt has been in the Metropolitan Police for eight years so has a wealth of experience an ideas which he is eagerly awaiting to put to use within the Suburb.
February 2010 - Youth Community Action Panel
In February 2010 we are organising a series of meetings in the local Secondary Schools as part of a recruitment process for the Youth CAP. Officers from Garden Suburb SNT are going to visit Schools and explain to youths what the meetings are about and invite them to join. Youth Community Action Panel is a project that invites youths to interact with the Safer Neighbourhood and bring forward their concerns in order for the officers to tackle the problems. It is also a very good opportunity for children to personally meet their local Police, have an informal discussion and get crime prevention advice. Any students within the Suburb who would like to have a chat with us and do not attend the local schools are more than welcome to email/phone us to discuss their issues.
3rd February - Christ College on East End Road N2
8th February - Henrietta Barnet on Central Square NW11
2nd March - King Alfred's on North End Road NW11
December 2009 - Immobilise
With Christmas fast approaching I would like to make residents aware of the website http://www.immobilise.com which is a free site for you to record serial numbers and photos of purchases you might make during this period. Immobilise is the world's largest FREE register of possession ownership details which the Metropolitan Police have access to check serial numbers to ensure they are in lawful possession if people are stop and searched on the street or during . The register is used by all UK police forces and can also be used as a useful record for recording purchase dates/prices should you ever have a warranty claim. Nothing gives the police more satisfaction than recovering stolen property or proving that items do not belong to an individual. Help us to make life for criminals more difficult and to seize their ill-gotten gains - sadly if we can't prove that the property belongs to someone else then we have to return it back to them which is very galling!! Sgt Matthew Hinton
December 2009 - Christmas Car Crime Prevention
In the run up to Christmas when you may be out shopping or planning on taking presents to friends or family please remember not to leave items on display: even an old coat or a plastic bag can tempt a thief as most car theives are opportunistic. Never leave mobile phones, chargers, cash, clothing or documents on display - if you must keep them in the car then keep them out of sight in the boot. If there is no obvious property on display then the theif is more likely to target another vehicle that has some form of property on display and therefore yield some return for them - however small in value.

In the colder months condensation may form on the inside of your car. If you regularly use a SatNav, the suction cap position may appear on the front of your car windscreen giving a thief a clue that you may have left you SatNav in your car in the boot, glovebox or under a seat. Please ensure you regularly wipe the area where you attach your SatNav to the windscreen and never leave an empty SatNav cradle attached to the car windscreen. A quick wipe with a microfibre cloth every time you remove it will help prevent such obvious tale tale signs to a thief.

When parking at home, always use your garage if you have one, and lock both your vehicle and your garage. If you don't have a garage, try to park in a well-lit, open place. Try to avoid parking next to a tree as it provides cover for a thief and gives them an excuse that they are just resting next to a tree if disturbed!

A final point of note - please when locking your car via your remote control stop and look. Did all the door locks actually go down? Wireless doorbells and other wireless technology has increeased over the years and has been known to interfere with car remote locking so whilst you may have pressed the lock button, the locks may not have gone down. Visually check and verify - don't just assume it locked because you pressed the button.

September 2009 - Metropolitan Police organises Peace Week
Every year The Metropolitan Police organises Peace Week, an event that takes place every September throughout the boroughs of London. Together with the Community we are trying to build new bridges and celebrate peace. This year Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhoods organised an event together with King Alfred's School. Children from year 7 had the opportunity to artistically design something to represent Peace and have the chance to win a £200 voucher given by the Safer neighbourhood team. On the 29th of September Sergeant Matt Hinton, Constables Carl Mercer and Mehmet Ganidagli and PCSO Denisa Andronic attended the School where they judged all the displays that the students created. They then awarded the prize to the creators of the winning piece, a living tree.
September 2009 - New Sergeant for Garden Suburb SNT
Sergeant Matthew Hinton has taken over responsibility for the Garden Suburb SNT.
"I am extremely proud to have been selected as the Sergeant for Hampstead Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team and to have been given the opportunity to continue to ensure a safe environment for you to live and work within. I look forward to meeting those who reside and have businesses within the ward so that my team and I can address any needs or concerns that you may have. I am lucky to have a professional hard working team who all believe that it is our responsibility to listen to your views and set these as the foundation to our daily priorities whilst on patrol within the community."
October 2008 - Thefts from motor vehicles
It has come to notice that there has been a slight increase in number of thefts from motor vehicles in the ward. There are several things you can do to reduce the risk of being a victim of this type of crime:
  • Make sure you remove all valuables on display from your vehicle
  • Check that vehicle is locked and secured
  • Activate your vehicle alarm (if you have one)
  • Park your vehicle in a well lit area even if it means walking a little distance to your home address
If you would like to receive any crime prevention leaflets about this or any other matter, feel free to ring Garden Suburb SNT on 0207 1619016.
September 2008 - New Sergeant for Suburb SNT
Sergeant Damian Southall has taken over responsibility for the Garden Suburb SNT. "I am very happy to have taken over as a Sergeant on the Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team. I joined the Metropolitan Police in April 2008, serving in Islington borough for 5 years before being transferred on promotion to Barnet borough. I am looking forward to working with residents and local businesses on Garden Suburb ward to making it an enjoyable and safe place to live and work."
July 2008 - Speeding on Willifield Way
Local residents have brought it to our attention that motorists have been speeding on Willifield Way NW11. The Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team has deployed the use of a Laser Speed Gun in this area to deter speeding motorists on the 15th July 2008. As a result, it has been decided that further random Speeding Operation will occur on this stretch of road. Please be aware that there is a large 20 mph zone in the area of Willifield Way and Addison Way NW11.
April 2008 - Laser speed gun 23rd and 24th April
The Community Action Panel, which is made up of local residents, has brought it to our attention that motorists have been speeding on Finchley Road, NW11. The Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team will be deploying a Laser Speed Gun in this area to deter speeding motorists on the 23rd and 24th April 2008 at 1100 - 1200. Speeding is not just inconsiderate driving - it contributes to the 36,000 serious injuries and 3,400 deaths that occur on Britain's roads each year. Garden Suburb SNT will be in place to Deter, Educate, and Enforce. This means being a visible presence to slow cars down, we will stop and inform minor offenders of the possible consequences of their speeding and, where speed is excessive, we will enforce the law. At 40mph, 85% of people hit by vehicles die, compared to 20% at 30mph (at 20mph it is just 5%). The 30mph limit is not an arbitrary figure.
April 2008 - Thefts from motor vehicles
It has come to notice that there has been a slight increase in number of thefts from motor vehicles in the ward. There are several things you can do to reduce the risk of being a victim of this type of crime:
  • Make sure you remove all valuables on display from your vehicle
  • Check that vehicle is locked and secured
  • Activate your vehicle alarm (if you have one)
  • Park your vehicle in a well lit area even if it means walking a little distance to your home address
If you would like to receive any crime prevention leaflets about this or any other matter, feel free to ring Garden Suburb SNT on 0207 1619016.
March 2008 - Be on the look out for burglars!
There was an attempt to burgle the house of one of your neighbours in the Suburb on Thursday 28 March at 2 o' clock in the morning. Somebody inserted a long cane with a hook through the front door letterbox. It is believed they were after car keys, which were hanging on a nearby wall. There are several things you can do to reduce the risk of being a victim of this type of crime. Fix a letterbox cage on the inside of the door, Remove items such as keys and jewellery from near the doorway, Shut all doors leading off from the hallway.
March 2008 - Laser speed gun 26th March
The Community Action Panel, which is made up of local residents, has brought it to our attention that motorists have been speeding on Finchley Road, NW11. The Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team will be deploying a Laser Speed Gun in this area to deter speeding motorists on the 26th March 2008 at 0930-1030 & 1200- 1300. Speeding is not just inconsiderate driving - it contributes to the 36,000 serious injuries and 3,400 deaths that occur on Britain's roads each year. Garden Suburb SNT will be in place to Deter, Educate, and Enforce. This means being a visible presence to slow cars down, we will stop and inform minor offenders of the possible consequences of their speeding and, where speed is excessive, we will enforce the law. At 40mph, 85% of people hit by vehicles die, compared to 20% at 30mph (at 20mph it is just 5%). The 30mph limit is not an arbitrary figure.
March 2008 - Parcel delivery warning
A male has been going around knocking on doors on Finchley Road NW11 near Hoop Lane NW11 claiming to have a parcel and for whatever reason he might be using this method as means of gaining entry into houses. Please be vigilant and be on your guard before opening the door.
March 2008 - Male arrested on suspicion of burglary
A male was arrested on suspicion of burglary on Falloden Way NW11. A local resident had been vigilant and had noticed the male acting suspiciously around the house. Police were contacted and the male was arrested in the vicinity.
February 2008 - Laser speed gun 26 & 27 February - update
During the course of nearly 2 hours in the last 2 days, police stopped and advised nearly 30 speeding motorists and issued 2 speeding tickets. See more details below.
February 2008 - Arsenal Reserve Team Scam - still operating
Previously reported in January, the same people are still going around the area asking for sponsorship money. We just want to make all our residents are aware that this is not for a genuine cause: A male has been seen knocking on doors purporting to be part of the Arsenal Reserve Team and trying to raise money for a charity event. This is bogus!!! Always check the identification of callers to the door, if in doubt, then do not give them any money even though the charity might appear to be a good one. If you have any vulnerable neighbours and you are aware that someone suspicious is collecting in the area, can you please check up on them as well so as to ensure that hey are not deceived. If you do become suspicious of people collecting from door to door, please contact Barnet police directly on 0208 200 1212.
February 2008 - Laser speed gun
The Community Action Panel, which is made up of local residents, has brought it to our attention that motorists have been speeding on Finchley Road, NW11. The Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team will be deploying a Laser Speed Gun in this area to deter speeding motorists on the 26th and 27th February 2008 at Approx 1000am. Speeding is not just inconsiderate driving - it contributes to the 36,000 serious injuries and 3,400 deaths that occur on Britain's roads each year. Garden Suburb SNT will be in place to Deter, Educate, and Enforce. This means being a visible presence to slow cars down, we will stop and inform minor offenders of the possible consequences of their speeding and, where speed is excessive, we will enforce the law. At 40mph, 85% of people hit by vehicles die, compared to 20% at 30mph (at 20mph it is just 5%). The 30mph limit is not an arbitrary figure.
January 2008 - Want to help Police with their enquiries?
The Police need volunteers to act as role players for street based scenarios, which are part of the training for trainee Police officers. It would only be for a couple of hours a week at most and does not have to be a regular commitment. If you wish to be considered for this or know of people who do, please contact Sgt. Edmondson for further information.
January 2008 - Speeding on Finchley Road
The Community Action Panel, which is made up of local residents, has brought it to our attention that motorists have been speeding on Finchley Road, NW11. The Garden Suburb Safer Neighbourhood Team will be deploying a Laser Speed Gun in this area to deter speeding motorists on the 29th and 30th January at Approx 1pm. Speeding is not just inconsiderate driving - it contributes to the 36,000 serious injuries and 3,400 deaths that occur on Britain's roads each year. Garden Suburb SNT will be in place to Deter, Educate, and Enforce. This means being a visible presence to slow cars down, we will stop and inform minor offenders of the possible consequences of their speeding and, where speed is excessive, we will enforce the law. At 40mph, 85% of people hit by vehicles die, compared to 20% at 30mph (at 20mph it is just 5%). The 30mph limit is not an arbitrary figure.
January 2008 - Robberies
In the last few weeks there have been a couple of incidents on the Suburb. It is our view that you should be made aware of the incidents in order for you to look out for yourselves. There have been two Robberies that have taken place where the victims have been grabbed on their driveways after getting out of their cars, and property taken from them. In both cases the victim was not aware of the suspects presence until they had been grabbed. It is suspected by police that in both cases the suspects made their escape in a vehicle. In both these instances the suspects have been described as being in their mid-twenties, about 6ft tall, black, and male. It would appear that the suspects always work in a group and not as individuals. In order to try and combat this can you all please be vigilant when getting out of your vehicles, especially when it is dark. Have a quick glance to see if there is anyone around you prior to leaving the car. Also can you please contact the police if you see a group of people matching the above descriptions who appear to be watching people/loitering in the area and are not known to you locally. If you do see such a group, could you also pass on any information relating to any vehicles you may see the group with, as the police would find this intelligence very useful. Lastly, can I please assure you that these incidents are thankfully still very rare and let us not deter you from your normal routines. Please remember you are living in one of the safest parts of the capital. We are dedicated to catching the individuals committing these crimes, and we are sure that with your continued, vigilance and support we will arrest these suspects and bring them to justice.
January 2008 - Arsenal Reserve Team
A male has been seen knocking on doors purporting to be part of the Arsenal Reserve Team and trying to raise money for a charity event. This is bogus!!! Always check the identification of callers to the door, if in doubt, then do not give them any money even though the charity might appear to be a good one. If you have any vulnerable neighbours and you are aware that someone suspicious is collecting in the area, can you please check up on them as well so as to ensure that hey are not deceived. If you do become suspicious of people collecting from door to door, please contact Barnet police directly on 0208 200 1212.
December 2007 - Crime Prevention Stall
The Garden Suburb SNT team will be at the Marks and Spencer Finchley Road NW11 holding a Crime Prevention Stall at the following times:
  • 1300 - 1700 Monday 17th December 2007
  • 0900 - 1200 Tuesday 18th December 2007
  • 1200 - 1600 Wednesday 19th december 2007
It will be an opportunity for residents to tell us of their community and security concerns, quality of life issues and influence local policing. On the day we will be providing crime prevention and personal safety advice, how to register mobile phones, mark and identify property
November 2007 - Burglaries
At present the Suburb is being hit by a number of residential burglaries. The main affected area is the 'A1 corridor' between Brim Hill and Oakwood Road and adjacent streets. The peak time during the day is 1-6pm. In a lot of cases the suspects break in at the rear of the premises. Please be aware of this and contact Barnet Police on 020 8200 1212 if you see anything suspicious or 999 if you think a crime is happening at the time.
November 2007 - Twitten security gates
Thank you for your contribution to the proposed gating of twitten between Erskine Hill and Willifield Way. Of the random sample of 18 households involved in a survey we did to get an idea of what residents thought of the idea 11 were for it while 7 opposed it. We also received 4 emails opposed to the idea. We also spoke with the Garden Suburb Trust and they were opposed to the idea as well. Based on this feedback we have dropped the proposal.
November 2007 - North London Hospice collections scam
A local resident has stated that on two occasions in the last two weeks he has had 12-13 year old white girls knock on the house door and ask for sponsorship money, stating that they were collecting money for the NORTH LONDON HOSPICE. They had photocopied sponsorship forms with them, with the Hospice logo on it. The resident has contacted the hospice and they don't know anything about a collection. Can you please be aware that unless someone has an official badge with them, then do not give them any money. When someone is officially collecting money they will have a badge and let the police know which roads they are collecting from so we confirm their credentials. Also, if you have an elderly or vulnerable neighbour and you are aware that someone suspicious is collecting in the area, can you please check up on them as well so as to ensure they are ok.
If you do become suspicious of people collecting from door to door, please contact Barnet police directly on 020 8733 1212, or if not available on that number then 999 (not the safer neighbourhood team as we are not a 24hr service)

Crime Prevention Tips

If you can help identify those responsible for any crime contact your Safer Neighbourhoods Team. Or you can give information in confidence to Crimestoppers 0800 555 111. In an emergency ALWAYS call 999.
Take Care - ATM's:
Thieves are targeting local cash points.
  • Guard your card and PIN.
  • Check no one can see over your shoulder.
  • Don't let anyone distract you whilst withdrawing cash.
  • Report any loss of your card to the bank immediately.
  • Report anything suspicious to Police.
  • If you are not happy, use another cash point.
Take Care - Pickpockets:
Pickpocket and handbag thieves are targeting you whilst you are shopping or on your day to day activities.
  • Beware of who is around you whilst you are out.
  • Pickpockets often operate in pairs and use distraction techniques to avert your attention whilst they steal from your bag.
  • Wear your bag across your body with the zip facing you.
  • In winter, wear your coat over your bag to hide it.
  • Never leave your bag unattended in a shopping trolley, basket or on the back of a pushchair.
  • If you use a wheelchair or motorised scooter, keep your valuables in front of you.
  • Do not hang your handbags or briefcases at the back of the chair where thieves can dip into them.
  • Always keep it with you.
  • Report anything suspicious to Police.
Personal Attack Alarms:
Consider the carrying & use of a personal attack alarm. Can be obtained from various sources nowadays. E.g. DIY stores. To be carried in a pocket and not in the bottom of a bag. Remember the alarm will not prevent an attack but will hopefully attraction attention and disorientate any attacker for a few seconds so the victim can break free.
Immobilise-record serial numbers and purchase details
You can record serial numbers and photos of purchases free at http://www.immobilise.com. Immobilise is the world's largest FREE register of possession ownership details and is used by all UK police forces to identify and return stolen property.
Personal Attack Alarms:
Consider the carrying & use of a personal attack alarm. Can be obtained from various sources nowadays. E.g. DIY stores. To be carried in a pocket and not in the bottom of a bag. Remember the alarm will not prevent an attack but will hopefully attraction attention and disorientate any attacker for a few seconds so the victim can break free.
Motor Vehicle:
Remove all property from view when leaving the vehicle unattended. Audio, I.T. equipment, coats, bags, loose change. etc.
Ensure vehicle is locked properly and that any alarm & mobiliser fitted are set correctly.
Consider fitting locking wheel nuts and having the Index/ Registration number etched into the glass. Park in well lit & overlooked roads overnight.
Identity Theft
Be aware of this growing problem and ensure that all documents bearing personal details are destroyed / disposed of safely.
Gardens
Ensure that trees and large shrubs in gardens do not grow so large so as to provide forms of concealment for criminals. Especially relevant to shrubs that are adjacent to ground floor windows. A burglar may hide behind / amongst a shrub whilst forcing entry to a window.
Gates
Ensure that rear & side gates are always closed and secured by a lock. To prevent free access to the rear and side of the property.
Christmas
Remember as Christmas approaches, empty boxes and packaging left outside advertise that you have new goods inside - dispose of packing carefully. If you go out for the evening - make it look like someone is at home by turning on lights and the radio. As a fire precaution, don't leave Christmas lights on in the house whilst you are out.
Perimeter Security
Ensure all fencing, walls & railings are sound and secure. Boundary treatments should be free from holes, gaps and damage. Repair/Replace sections as soon as possible. Erect to height of at least 1.8m (approx. 6ft)
Garden Tools
Remove all tools and any other implements from the garden that could be used to force entry to the home. Spades, Hoes, Shears etc Remove to secure shed/outhouse/garage or the house itself.
Keys
Good key management is very important. Know where your keys are! Never leave keys inside locks on view. This is often the case on rear garden doors whereby the Burglar breaks the glass puts his/her hand through to turn the key. Never leave house or car keys where they can be reached through the letterbox. This is commonly known as a `fishing rod` burglary. Sticks or bamboos are put through the aperture of letterboxes to reach and remove keys from hallway. The keys are then used to gain entry to the house or to steal a car from the driveway or road outside.
Property Marking Schemes
Use the Postcode property marking schemes on all valuable items. UV pen markers, Etching & Photographs. Note all serial numbers and keep the list in a safe place for future reference. immobilise.com Nationally recognised register of various property & equipment. Free to users via website.
Shared/Communal Entrance Doors
Ensure this door closes and then locks properly. Keep well maintained. Do not "buzz" strangers into the building and do not allow, "tailgating". This is where a stranger follows you through the door and into the lobby to access the entire building.
Lighting
Ensure that any external security lights are installed at a height where they cannot be easily reached and that they are maintained correctly. Consider the use of internal security lighting within the home. Simply leave lights on or use timer units to switch lamps on at pre-set times.