Rogue Traders Targeted

West Mercia Police are continuing to work in conjunction with local Trading Standards Officers to tackle doorstep crime.

A day of action took place on Wednesday (20th) across the force area as part of Rogue Trader Month which highlights offenders who often prey on the elderly and vulnerable.

Three males (two men and a youth) were arrested in Birlingham near Pershore on suspicion of theft of metal by officers from the Force Road Policing Unit and police also made a stop check in Kidderminster and arrested a man with an offensive weapon.

Police in Shropshire made around 15 stop checks and gathered intelligence throughout the day. Community Support Officers, together with officers from local Trading Standards, visited numerous addresses to offer reassurance and hand out information to the public.

Across Worcestershire 100 vehicles were stop checked and 22 offences identified.

In Herefordshire 130 vehicles were stop checked and advice leaflets distributed to local people while in Telford & Wrekin officers stop checked 17 traders and visited several households to offer tips.

The force's Knock Knock campaign aims to raise awareness of doorstep crime and distraction burglary.

Detective Superintendent Steve Cullen, West Mercia Police's Force Crime Manager said; "The message is simple - If you're not sure don't open the door. Use reputable traders and local companies and make sure you check credentials. Don't hand over any money upfront before work has been carried out. If you have elderly neighbours look out for them and remember that genuine callers wont mind waiting while you check their identity.

"If you see anyone acting suspiciously in your area or notice vehicles you are suspicious of then note down registration numbers and call police on 0300 333 3000."

In the first five months of this year Consumer Direct West Midlands received over 1000 complaints about doorstep callers which includes traders that either had canvassed for business or the consumer had contacted for a quote. This is an increase of 12% on last year covering a range of issues including tarmacing, gardening services, double glazing and building work amongst others.

Trading Standards, Consumer Direct and local Police Authorities throughout the Midlands will be carrying out a range of road shows and community talks throughout June. Information on doorstep callers is also be available on the Smooth FM website under the 'Suspect it Report it' section http://www.smoothradiowestmidlands.co.uk/lifestyle/

Alternatively people can contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 for advice about local 'Trader Register' schemes, top tips before having any work done, or if people suspect a Rogue Trader is operating in their area.

Find out more information about West Mercia Police's Knock Knock campaign.