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News

Triumph Over Beach Crime

Two people have been charged with the recent break in of six beach huts on Shore Road, as Poole Police work closely with Borough of Poole to crack down on beach crime.

The outcome of the arrests sees the two defendants charged with burglary, resulting in compensation of £150 to be paid to the Borough of Poole by the defendants. One defendant will also be subject to a curfew until the end of January 2006. They will attend meetings with the Youth Offending Team and 'Think First' Programmes at Poole Probation Centre to address behaviour.

Cllr Don Collier, Portfolio Holder for the Environment, said: "I would like to congratulate the police for these prosecutions. Beach huts are an easy target for break-ins and vandalism as they can to be in isolated areas and, in many cases, are not fitted with the same security fittings found in modern homes. It is important that these crimes are taken seriously as they are just as much an invasion of privacy as a break-in to your home."

The Borough of Poole's Leisure Services, Environmental & Consumer Protection and Youth Services work closely with the police and other authorities, as part of the Poole Safe Together partnership, to tackle crime on Poole beaches and to identify and implement measures to prevent anti-social behaviours and vandalism.

Cllr Ann Stribley, Chair of Poole Safe Together Partnership, said: "Beach hut crime is particularly bad as it involves acts of vandalism and theft. We are very proud of Poole's beaches and will continue to work hard with the local community to reduce beach crime."

Compensation paid to the council will go towards repairing the damage caused to the beach huts.

Inspector Richard Hutley, Poole Police, said: "This result demonstrates the positive approach Poole Police takes to investigating this type of crime. Owners of beach huts are reminded to ensure that they don't leave valuables within the huts and ensure good security locks are fitted."

Lisa Gaskell, Communications, Borough of Poole, Tel: 01202 633060