Business burglaries prompts new initiative

Cafés and commercial premises where cash has been left in tills have been targeted, with thieves gaining access through the use of force.

Police are now working in partnership with Worthing and Adur Chamber of Commerce to raise awareness, give advice and inform members of crime patterns.

Chamber chairman Peter Bennett said: “This is a positive and encouraging move forwards with crime prevention a major factor for retail and commercial profit levels.

“We really appreciate this initiative from the police as it combines new technology with the old virtues of self-help and co-operation to beat the evils of greedy reckless thieves.”

Crime advice and updates will be posted on the chamber’s Twitter feed from June.

Officers from local neighbourhood policing teams are also carrying out visits to those affected.

Sergeant Jo Webb said: “We would like to encourage local businesses to remove valuables such as petty cash from their premises over night to deter offenders.

“Investigations into these offences are ongoing.”

She added: “We are looking to develop closer relationships with our business community across the district so that we are better enabled to provide them with a responsive service and allay concerns with regards to crime.”

Any business concerned about or which has been affected by crime can contact Sergeant Jo Webb on [email protected] or on twitter @SgtJoWebb

Crime updates will be available on the chamber’s Twitter feed, @worthingandadur