Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP extends successful rural crime project
Fri, December 18, 2020
Causeway Coast and Glens Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) and the PSNI have relaunched a successful pilot project that aims to tackle the blight of rural crime.
The scheme, in partnership with Cantrack Global Ltd, encourages the rural community to adopt crime prevention methods, such as the installation of tracking devices to protect their valuable agricultural equipment.
Selected applicants will benefit from a subsidised PROTECT tracking unit alongside a reduction in the cost of an annual subscription for the first year. This allows monitoring and tracking to assist in the recovery of stolen vehicles and equipment
Calling efforts to tackle rural crime a joint effort, Chairperson of the PCSP, Councillor Oliver McMullan said: “Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP recognises that it’s important we continue to strengthen our relationships with partners to ensure we are all doing everything we can to prevent rural crime and tackle its impact head-on.
“A pilot rural crime tracker project was launched earlier this year focusing on quad bikes and thankfully we have witnessed a reduction in quad bike theft in the area.
“However we are determined to avoid complacency and recognise that rural crime continues to be a cause for concern across the farming and rural community. The PCSP is delighted to extend the scheme to include other rural vehicles and machinery.
“Through our work we aim to support our rural neighbours to protect themselves from theft, and help reduce the impact these crimes can have on their livelihoods."
Causeway Coast and Glens Community Planning Sergeant, Darrel McIvor, said: “I would encourage owners of agricultural machinery to strongly consider making use of tracker technology. In the event you are the victim of theft, this can greatly increase the chances of recovering stolen machinery and equipment.
“We would also recommend that you review all aspects of farm security from lighting to access to your yard and outbuildings. Find out how to join your local neighbourhood watch scheme for up-to-date crime prevention advice, signage and inclusion in a text alert service.”
To be considered for the pilot scheme please request an expression of interest form by emailing pcsp@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk or by calling 028 207 62225.
The availability of tracker devices is limited and applications will be marked against a set criteria including crime pattern analysis via the PSNI.