ABSTRACT
West Mercia has a rural crime strategy with three key aims: reduce harm; effective community engagement; and target those who cause harm. In an attempt to reduce re-victimisation, when an officer receives a report of a domestic burglary, they take with them a ‘We Don’t Buy Crime’ pack. The pack contains crime prevention information and a letter from a senior officer which details that the police are aware they have been a victim of burglary and that it is important that they take some action to reduce the opportunity of their becoming a victim again. Victims are also provided with a free SmartWater kit which they are encouraged to use to mark their property. Neighbours of a theft victim are also provided with a ‘We Don’t Buy Crime’ pack which includes a UV marker pen and window stickers to advise that property has been marked. ‘Rural Matters’ is an overarching communications campaign to help reduce crime in rural areas.
