Aylesbury Vale's rural communities praised for helping to cut crime

Over 50 farms in Aylesbury Vale have been visited, as part of a police operation to stop rural crime.

At least two people have been arrested, after large farm machinery was stolen over a period of time.

Superintendent Mike Loebenberg told us community spirit plays a big part in helping catch criminals in our rural areas:

"Out local communities do have really strong links between themselves, good sharing of information and they are really keen to make sure that they have got CCTV and even simple things like doorbell cameras.

"That allows us to capture evidence at an early stage and be able to progress offences."

A recent focus on the issue of rural crime saw officer out and about visiting farms and villages, chatting to people living there.

Machinery theft is one issue, but hare coursing and other forms of burglary also affect them.

Mike told us this isn't something just his officers can deal with, when so much of the Vale is rural:

"We are working with the community to give crime prevention advice, as well as encourage the receipt of information and intelligence about offences which may be taking place."

You can find information and advice on preventing rural crime on the Thames Valley Police website.

There is also specific advice on stopping heavy plant theft.

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• rural crime
• thames valley police
• aylesbury vale