Christmas warning about stolen goods
NIKI TENNANT
Officers in Rutherglen and Cambuslang have launched a crackdown on the purchase of potentially stolen goods which fund serious and organised crime.
Police are warning shoppers hunting for a Christmas bargain not to spend their money on any items that have been stolen from a home or business.
Over the past few years, tackling housebreaking has been a policing priority, but many stolen items which are not recovered end up being sold on to the public.
Selling on, or taking possession of stolen goods is known as resetting and police want to highlight to shoppers that buying stolen property is unacceptable. In the coming weeks, officers will be liaising with secondhand retailers to identify any items that may have been obtained as a result of an acquisitive crime offence and to improve information-sharing with these businesses.
Visits will also be paid to markets and stalls to ensure all goods being sold have been lawfully procured.
The public have a vital role to play in helping stop reset crimes, by questioning the origin of anything they are considering buying and refusing to purchase the items if there is any doubt.
Inspector Stephen McManus of Rutherglen police office said: “While it is natural to look for the best deal when buying any product, it is not acceptable to view the purchase of stolen goods as a cheaper alternative to buying in-store or online.
“Resetting stolen property is not a victimless crime. Often the things being stolen are from another member of the public’s home and were intended as a gift. Alternatively, they are taken from commercial businesses who then make claims on their insurance and have to raise their own prices as a result.
“Acquisitive crime in any form will not be tolerated and buying an item known, or believed to be stolen, could result in a criminal conviction.
“Only buy from reputable sources and if in any doubt whatsoever, do not make the purchase and notify police.”