Police concerned about the number of assaults and thefts from boats in June
Crime figures were done by half in central Seaton last month – although it was a different picture on the rural patch.
Police investigated just 16 incidents in the town area compared with 32 in May – well down on June’s monthly average of 27 during the last decade.
But officers were concerned that the total included a number of assaults and there was also an attack on a seagull’s nest.
Neighbourhood beat officer PC Steve Speariett said: “Following the high crime levels we saw in May it is pleasing to see that crime has fallen this month and is the lowest monthly total since at least 2004.
“We have seen a number of assaults reported and the police will always take positive action whenever possible, in the majority of incidents the offenders have been identified.
“A male offender from Cardiff was arrested in relation to a theft from Boots and he has been charged with a number of thefts from shops in the East Devon area.”
But in the Seaton rural policing division the crime figures for June were up – boosted by a number of thefts from boats at Axmouth Harbour and Beer.
Compared to the same month last year, the number of incidents increased from five to 18.
PC Speariett said: “June saw an increase of theft of marine equipment at Axmouth and Beer. It is probable that the offences are linked together and were committed during the early hours. We are appealing for any witnesses who saw any vehicle or people acting suspiciously in the area and in particular any white vans in suspicious circumstances. If you see any suspicious activity then call 999 straight away.
“We would like to ask all boat owners to record/mark their equipment; the neighbourhood team can offer advice and mark boat equipment, if you require this service please contact us.”
PC Speariett added that although June saw a big increase compared to last year - which was the lowest ever June total - the figure was still below the long term average.
Police want to hear from anyone with information about the Axmouth boat thefts. They should call them on 101 quoting the relevant crime reference as detailed below:
June 19 – 20: A number of items were stolen from a boat moored at Axe Yacht club (CR/082962/14)
June 18 – 21: A number of items were stolen from an Orkney strikeliner moored at Axe yacht club.( CR/083335/14)
June 19 – 20: Two fuel tanks were stolen from a boat moored in the harbour. (CR/084599/14).
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