SOMERSET NEWS: Crime low in flooded areas of the county

POLICE have reassured villagers in flooded areas of Somerset that crime remains low.

With many people having had to evacuate their homes there have been concerns that thieves will take advantage and add to the misery by raiding properties.

But police said yesterday (Friday, February 21, 2014) that there had only been eight crimes – albeit eight crimes too many – within the whole of the flooded areas of Somerset during the past seven weeks.

Working with partners including Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and the RNLI, officers have been carrying out enhanced patrols on foot and using a variety of vehicles and boats in the more flooded aeras.

Officers are also wading through the flood-hit village of Moorland to carry out regular property checks to protect homes and businesses.

PHOTO - TOP: Sgt Elaine Linham wades through the floodwater on her patrols.

Residents have been issued with passes and several checkpoints are in operation to ensure that only those with a legitimate reason to be travelling into the evacuated areas are admitted.

Chief Inspector Jeff Foreman said: “So far we have been delighted to see a real sense of community spirit between residents.

“People are really looking out for each other and there have been very few crimes. But we aren’t complacent and will work hard to ensure this continues.”

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