ON THE BEAT
Hello and welcome to the first monthly column which will be brought to you by officers from the local problem solving team (LPST) in conjunction with the Reformer.
Its purpose is to provide an insight into the types of crime that officers regularly deal with, and the emerging trends that are impacting directly on communities.
Recently, we have dealt with a number of reports of wilful fireraising.
In October, a housing development in Cambuslang was targeted – causing £49,000 worth of damage – while a number of bins were also set on fire near to Halfway bowling club.
LPST officers identified a 14-year-old male as being responsible for both incidents.
A report was submitted and the youth has been referred to Scottish Fire and Rescue, which runs a diversionary programme to raise awareness of the dangers of setting fires.
Last month, as reported in the Reformer, a florist and hairdressing salon in Rutherglen were targeted in wilful fireraising attacks, followed by a car on Brownsdale Road.
These sort of incidents cause significant concern to the public and the consequences should never be underestimated.
In response, an investigative strategy was put in place involving a number of specialist officers, while LPST officers have been undertaking high-visibility patrols.
The inquiry remains ongoing and I would ask anyone with information to please contact us.
I would like to stress that only by working together can we truly tackle the crimes and issues that impact on our local communities.
Please do not assume that the police will know something.
We rely on the help, support and assistance of the public to detect and tackle crime.
Community officers can be contacted directly via email or 101 if anyone wishes to discuss an issue or problem.
For anyone who has concerns about contacting the police directly on 101, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where reports are completely anonymous.
Lanarkshire Division is committed to working in partnership and is currently refreshing its local policing plans.
The thoughts and opinions of communities are important and we are committed to using this information to help inform and shape policing priorities.
The consultation is open until December 31 and can be accessed via www.consult. scotland.police.uk/surveys/ your-police
The festive period brings with it an increase in social events, nights out and drinking.
On behalf of Rutherglen and Cambuslang LPST I hope that Reformer readers enjoy the holidays and time with family and friends. But please do so safely. Increased alcohol or drugs consumption can lead to acts of violence which can have a catastrophic impact on those involved. We will