Dear Parents / Carers,
On behalf of the metropolitan police service a happy new year.
In the run up to Christmas I noticed a worrying trend where robberies were not reported to police promptly. I wish emphasise the importance of calling the police as soon as possible, ideally within 20 minutes. Police officers could carry out a drive around for the suspect or seize important forensic evidence if the suspect had put ‘hands on’. Vital evidence could be lost if there is any delay.
Please don’t wait.
Some people feel that a robbery is a common occurrence and is not a serious matter. This is not the case. Robbery is rare and is a serious offence that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment if found guilty.
The chances of your child becoming a victim is very low and there are step you and your child could take to increase their safety and maximise the chances of them recovering their phone in the unfortunate event that they do become a victim. I enclose some details below, please take a moment to read it.
Please do not be alarmed by this letter, however we must not trivialise or normalise robbery. It is not something the community should have to put up with and together I believe we can make a positive difference.
Your sincerely
Sergeant Chan 146YE
Enfield Safer Schools
Please take a moment of your time to go through the following point with your child.
Don’t make it easy for criminals. Think before you use your phone in public or on public transport - especially at bus stops, the tube or train stations.
Keep a record of your phone’s IMEI number - just type *#06# (star, hash, 06, hash) into your phone and it will display a fifteen digit number. You can use this number to register your phone at www.immobilise.com
Many of the latest mobile phones have apps that can help you find your phone. Make sure you download these and have them on your phone as they are free. If your phone is stolen, tell the police about your app.
Take care when leaving school and in crowded places. Try to be aware of what’s happening around you. Keep your mobile and other valuable property out of sight.
You stand a very good chance of getting your phone back when stolen, particularly if the matter is reported to the police quickly. Don’t wait until you get home. Get someone to ring the police on 101, or speak directly to a member of your school staff (if you’re close by) or a police officer. Aim to call police as soon as you can. Think: less than 20 minutes. Always call 999 in an emergency.
If you do have your phone stolen, remember don’t fight back; it’s much safer to give them what they want than get hurt or injured
Never buy or accept a mobile phone that you believe may be stolen. This could get you arrested and result in a criminal record.
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