More than 1,000 warning letters sent to motorists who have left valuables displayed in their cars has led to a 40% drop in car crime, a force claims. Some 1,376 letters were sent to drivers after officers and Southampton City Council car parking attendants spotted the items in their vehicles.
They passed the car's details to the DVLA, who then wrote to the owners.
The number of thefts from vehicles has dropped 40% to 582, compared to the same time last year, the police say.
Scheme extended
Supt Gareth Jones said: "The scheme has proved very successful so far and it would appear that when people are sent these letters it really does make them think about what they leave on display in their cars.
"But why wait until we spot your vehicle or much worse a thief does?
"Don't leave anything at all of value or interest on display in your car."
The letter scheme, which was due to end last month, will now be extended until at least the end of March 2006.
One-Minute World News 
News services
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
