Harborough and Lutterworth Police are teaming up with Lutterworth MOT Centre and Harborough Autos to offer free fitting of anti-theft or tamper proof screws to secure vehicle number plates.
The initiative has been launched following an increase in number plate thefts in the area. In the last 60 days nine incidents have been reported to the police.
Crimes that can be committed following the theft of a number plate may include:
• Speeding
• Illegal parking
• Congestion charges
• Not paying for fuel
• Disguising a stolen vehicle
Clutch head screws have a ‘one way’ design which makes them far more difficult to remove and can be fitted as a replacement to the number plate screws which dealerships fit as standard.
Inspector Paul McKinder from Harborough Local Policing Unit said: “Number plates are often stolen by criminals who fit them to their vehicles to evade detection during a crime where a vehicle is used.
“I would advise motorists to report the theft of a number plate to the police immediately or you could run the risk of becoming falsely implicated in criminal activity. It will also allow us to identify and investigate promptly any offence committed by the vehicle bearing the stolen number plates.”
James Inder of Lutterworth MOT Centre said; “Vehicle crime is a serious problem and hopefully these safety screws will reduce vehicle crime substantially.”
PCSO 6081 Matt McDade who arranged the initiative said; “Vehicle crime is common, and the occurrence of the theft of number plates recently is increasing. Offering the public a way to help secure their number plates will hopefully reduce crime in these areas.”
The screws are fitted during opening hours free of charge at:
More information on vehicle crime can be found by visiting; www.leics.police.uk, or contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team officer by calling 101.
