Published: Wednesday, 6th August, 2008 12:00
Cops crack down on kerb-crawlers
By Annabel Williams
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KERB-crawlers and prostitutes are the latest targets for the Oxford Road South police team.
Neighbourhood Specialist Officer for the Reading patch, PC Anna Croft said: “Over the last month, we have warned five kerb-crawlers and cautioned a prostitute.
“Once a kerb-crawler is issued with a warning, they are monitored and if found to be liaising with prostitutes, they will be arrested.
“I want to make it clear that I will do everything possible to ensure that
person is charged with the offence and then named and shamed. It is not an acceptable practice anywhere and we certainly don’t want it happening in our area.
“We are also following the prostitutes issued with cautions and, as with kerb- crawlers, monitoring them closely as well as working in close partnership with other agencies to provide them with support to get off the streets.”
The officer says colleagues have also stepped up patrols to stop a spate of burglaries, and she urged householders to lock their doors and windows during the night and when they are out.
PC Croft added: “I would like to update the residents of Argyle Road that things are on the move with the property that has unfortunately caused a lot of problems over the past month.
“I would still ask that the residents call in anything they see that they think we should be aware of.” The officer also appealed for anyone with
information about cars set alight in Kensington Park last month to contact the team.
PC Croft said: “Just to highlight that our office is located at 294 Oxford Road and we would encourage people to pop in for an informal chat and to meet the neighbourhood team any time.
“Our next street briefing is at Tetbury Court on Tuesday, August 12. We will also be out and about in the area so feel free to come and chat to us.”
Contact the team via Thames Valley Police’s enquiry centre on 08458 505505 or visit the website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk
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