Knowle Weekly Update - 22/04/26

Hello, 

This week we have completed 3 Speedwatch sessions around Knowle and have caught a total of 30 people speeding! We will be using the pro-laser gun on occasions to hand out tickets for speeding in addition to the community Speedwatch sessions which result in warning letters. We understand speeding is a concern of most residents and we are trying our best to reduce this.

What crime has happened in the last 9 Days?

Crime prevention advice:

Crime prevention is all about trying to make your belongings less desirable to anyone else. 

Vehicle crime:

Most vehicle thefts are through keyless entry. Offenders can use what is a called a “relay device” to scan for your key’s signal. They can copy that signal onto a blank key and use that to enter your vehicle. This is how easy it is for offenders to drive away in your vehicle. To prevent this, you can use a Faraday bag which has a specific lining that blocks the signal from the relay device. Make sure to keep your key in the faraday bag – even when going to the shops!

To give your vehicle that added layer of protection, a steering wheel lock acts as both a visible deterrent as well as an extra obstacle offenders must get through. Most offenders would be put off attempting to steal your vehicle when they see a steering wheel lock as it adds that extra time and effort, they would need to try and get it off. There have been many cases where offenders have been able to enter a vehicle but then struggled to get through the steering lock.

Rogue Traders: We have once again had reports of Rogue Traders knocking doors looking for work / trying to sell things out of a backpack.

Don’t let anyone you don’t know into your house. If people knock on your door regarding building work or services, check for any formal identification and company names. We have “No Cold Caller” signs available for anyone who wishes to put them up in their window to dissuade people knocking. (Get in touch with us if you would like some and we can drop them off!)

CCTV is a really useful tool for us to use in investigations as it allows us to see the offence happening, any offenders and what they are wearing or a direction of travel in their escape. If you haven’t already, sign up to our CCTV registry to receive alerts when your footage may help us with incidents in your area - CCTV Registry | West Midlands Police

What are we up to next week?

Follow us on X - @ruralswmp to see what we are getting up to day to day.

Email the team at rural@westmidlands.police.uk for any questions, concerns, advice or engagements.

Thank you for your continued support,

PCSO Kiah Acton 31911