News Release
Log it - don't lose it
Dated: 30 Jul 2012
[View Full Size]Police are reminding people to log their mobile phones for free to security register them.
Officers are setting up a crime prevention stall on Saturday, August 11, from 9am to 7pm in Eldon Square (near John Lewis), on Hotspur Way.
Officers are encouraging members of the public to bring their mobile phones along so police can register them on the free database.
The 'Hermes' kit is a portable netbook computer and barcode scanner which enables police to capture and instantly register personal property quickly, accurately and securely to its national database as well as national property register Immobilise.
It means when stolen property is recovered, police can search the database to reunite it with its rightful owner. The more people who sign up and register their property the more difficult it is for thieves to benefit from their crimes.
Officers are using the kit to tackle the problem of mobile phone thefts. Officers are still receiving reports of opportunist thieves stealing phones from people out in the city's bar and clubs and want to help make phones less attractive to thieves.
Acting Inspector Lesley Wheatley said: "The Hermes kit is a quick and easy way of registering people's property and building up a database of information which is safe and secure.
"It helps us identify recovered property as being stolen and reunite it with the rightful owners. It acts as a deterrent to thieves and helps ensure criminals can be dealt with appropriately - if they are identified instantly as being in possession of stolen property.
"We've run these sorts of events before which have been very successful and we want to encourage people to take full advantage of this system and bring their phones along in a bid to keep their property secure."
Police are also reminding people to look after their valuables when out enjoying themselves in the city.
She added: "By making this a day long event we hope to reach city centre workers, shoppers and visitors starting a night out too.
"Our main message is please don't leave expensive iPhones or Blackberrys lying on bar tables, or on top of handbags left open. Make sure you keep a close eye on your property.
"Our advice is simple - don't lose out - keep a watchful eye on your mobile and other valuables."
For further crime prevention advice visit the police website www.northumbria.police.uk/advice
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