Downton has a new Community Police Officer

PC Marc Evans has taken over from PC Harry Murphy as the area neighbourhoods’ police officer - his area covers Downton and surrounding villages.  Prior to joining the police, Marc had a 25-year military career, and he hopes to put his skills to good use, gathering intelligence and assisting the local community.

HIs aim is to visit as many people and businesses as possible.  He says, “I’m very much on the same wavelength as PC Murphy and hope to continue in the same style as him, attending as many meetings as possible and working in person within the community.  My intention is to look into and monitor all crimes reported in the areas I’m responsible for and monitor trends, as well as  assisting in investigations.”

Marc has some tips to pass on if you are a friend, relative or carer of someone you think might be vulnerable to scams, particularly where victims are persuaded to withdraw large amounts of money to be collected by a “courier”:

Police officers, police staff, banks and other organisations such as HMRC will never call people in this way and ask you to withdraw money or disclose personal or financial information. If someone does this, hang up.  If someone calls you, claiming to be a police officer, ask for their ID number and police force. Wait at least five minutes before verifying details with the appropriate force by calling 101 – do not use any number they provide unless you can confirm it as genuine. Ensure the call has disconnected as scammers will often leave the line open or use another phone altogether.  A genuine police officer will not mind waiting while you check their identity. (It’s a sign that it is a scam if the person becomes pushy or stresses urgency).  Speak to a trusted friend or relative for their opinion before agreeing to anything. The fraudster’s tactic is often to keep the victim busy talking and isolated.   Your bank or the police will never send a courier to your home to collect cash, bank cards, PINs or other valuable goods.
He says, “Please speak to anyone you know who might be vulnerable about this advice. You might be the only person who can stop them from being scammed.”

PC M EVANS 70162

NPT SALSBURY

Marc.Evans@wiltshire.police.uk

Bourne Hill police station

07876817927