Police target top offenders

Thursday 16 January 2014

A campaign launched last year to target Jersey’s top 50 criminals resulted in a 21% drop in burglary, robbery and thefts from vehicles.

Operation Crackdown involved the Police tracking Jersey's 50 most prolific criminals who between them commit more than half of all Island crime. One of the 50 is currently in La Moye Prison, and over the year others were charged and sentenced for a variety of offences including larceny from a motor vehicle and taking without owner's consent.

Acting Inspector Craig Jackson said the campaign was designed to make life very difficult for career criminals.

“This tough approach has reduced acquisitive crime by 21% but there is still much today and once again we ask for the public’s help," he said.

"Don’t make life easy for thieves,  keep your property safe. Take simple steps like removing valuables from cars, locking your doors and windows and just generally being vigilant with your property. Many thieves are opportunists, we want your help taking away the opportunity.”

Operation Crackdown will continue this year and police say it will also focus on reducing crime before it happens. 

One initiative sees the Police working with Transport and Technical Services. Posters will be displayed in public car parks in town reminding drivers to lock vehicles and remove valuables.