Police in the Amber Valley are encouraging residents to tell police about anything they think is suspicious, and help officers prevent crime.
It is after a number of incidents in the area recently where people have not called officers because they were worried about time wasting.
In one case a car was broken into overnight in Codnor. A neighbour had heard a noise in the early hours of the morning, looked out and noticed a man running off. They only contacted police to report what they had seen and heard two days later, as a result of door to door enquiries.
Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant Neil Glover said: “One of the greatest tools we have are the eyes and ears of our local residents, and we are really grateful of the support we get from the communities we serve.
“We would just like to encourage residents to report anything they think is out of the ordinary as we would much prefer to come and check everything is in order than to have people suffer the distress that can be caused by crime.”
Sgt. Glover added: “If you see anyone you don't know acting suspiciously on your neighbour's property or near your neighbour’s car then call us and, if you, can give us a good description of the people you saw.
“If there is a vehicle on your street which seems suspicious, make a note of its make and model, or even better its registration number, as it is information like this that can really help officers to prevent and detect crime, and keep our communities safe.”
People should call 999 in an emergency such as if a crime is in progress, someone suspected of a crime is nearby, if there is danger to life or when violence is being used or threatened.
You should call 101 to contact police for any other reason, or to report concerns that do not require an emergency response.
Alternatively, if you have information about a crime you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
