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Sutton Coldfield Police boost community safety efforts

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Police in Sutton Coldfield say they are stepping up their crime prevention activities as part of an ongoing commitment to keeping local communities safe. Officers from the Four Oaks and New Hall Neighbourhood Team are focusing on high-visibility patrols, community engagement, and targeted action against vehicle crime and anti-social behaviour,

Here is a roundup of activity, incidents, and crime prevention advice.

1. High-Visibility Patrols

Officers have conducted increased patrols in the retail areas of Mere Green, Walmley, and Wylde Green this week. The focus has been on deterring shoplifters and reassuring local businesses. The teams remain visible and engaged across the local high streets.

2. Crime Update: Vehicle Thefts

Four Oaks has recorded zero burglaries or vehicle thefts this week, which is positive news. However, the neighbouring New Hall area has unfortunately seen a spike in vehicle crime:

  • Cover Croft (Sunday 26th July, 00:36): Theft of a Blue Land Rover Defender and a White BMW 116. Method unknown.
  • Weaver Avenue (Thursday 30th July, 22:00): Theft of a Grey Mitsubishi. Method unknown.
  • Maybrook Business Park (Wednesday 29th July): Theft of a Black Triumph motorbike.

Keyless Entry Warning:
Residents who own keyless entry vehicles are urged to store their keys in a Faraday pouch. It is important to check the pouch regularly to ensure it is still working, as thieves use relay devices to capture key fob signals from inside homes. Pairing a Faraday pouch with a visible deterrent, such as a steering wheel lock, is strongly recommended.

For more prevention advice, visit the West Midlands Police Crime Prevention page or Secured by Design.

3. General Home Security

Residents are reminded to lock all windows and doors, even when at home. Keys should never be left in doors, particularly if a property has a cat or dog flap, as thieves can use tools to hook keys through these openings. Before heading out, residents are encouraged to make their homes look occupied, for example by using timer switches for lights or leaving a radio on.

4. Community Engagement: Surgeries

Drop-in surgeries were held this week at the Cosy Coffee shop and St James Church in Mere Green. Officers spoke with residents about local issues and provided tailored crime prevention advice. The teams appreciated the opportunity to engage face-to-face with the community.

5. A Big Thank You to Street Watch

Thanks are extended to the volunteers in Sutton Park, Walmley, Dunton Close, Harvestfields, and Wylde Green Street Watch groups. These volunteers have been out on patrol, speaking to local residents, and reporting any issues in the areas they cover.

Get Involved: The teams are actively looking for more volunteers in the Sutton Coldfield area. Anyone interested in helping to keep their street safe can email streetwatch@westmidlands.police.uk or reply to this message.

6. Dealing with Anti-Social Behaviour

  • Walmley: A Community Protection Warning was served on a beggar in Walmley who had been causing significant issues for local businesses and residents. The situation will continue to be monitored.
  • Sutton Park: Following reports of Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB), officers from the Four Oaks and Erdington Neighbourhood Teams, along with the Neighbourhood Crime Team, conducted foot and bicycle patrols in Sutton Park this week to ensure it remains a safe environment for all visitors.

Stay Safe and Stay in Touch

The neighbourhood teams hope residents have a peaceful week ahead. The community is reminded that reporting suspicious activity helps build a clearer picture of local issues. Anyone with concerns is encouraged to get in touch.


Four Oaks and Walmley Neighbourhood Teams

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