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Willersey Village Police Alerts up to June 2018

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  More Recent Alerts   Report of Suspected Arson - Mickleton Summer Drink Drive Campaign Dogs Die In Hot Cars
Computer Software Service Fraud HMRC Itunes Voucher Scam Courier Fraud Male Exposing Himself, Batsford Arboretum Drone flying over Chipping Campden Criminal Damage To Mickleton Play Area
Common Investment Scams TSB Port Out Alert TSB Phishing Attacks Burglaries- Chipping Campden Community Speed Watch - Campden Dog walking on farm land
PCSOs for Willersey Damage to Grave Ornaments Cars broken into TV Providers Discount Fraud Recovered stolen quad Bike Police drug stop and search
About Phishing FIFA 2018 World Cup Alert Speed Checks - North Cotswolds Attacked Lambs - Turkdean Cyber safety for Children Theft of sheep - Bleddington
Burglary - Great Rissington Nottingham Knockers - North Cotswolds Theft from vehicle - Dovers Hill FIFA World Cup 2018 Ticket Alert Theft of Sculptures Mickleton man jailed for gun possesion


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Suspicious Vehcile - Mickleton Gloucestershire Police Incident 202 03/01/19 At 2:30 pm Thursday 3rd January a resident of Mickleton has reported a suspicious Black VW Tourag 4X4 with two male occupants wearing high vis. When challenged they stated they work for Western Power. Police have checked if any Western Power operators are in the Mickleton area today and there are none. Male one described as late 40's short hair slim build and uneven teeth Male tow described as shaved head and a right black eye. If seen please call 101 quoting the incident number above. Many thanks PC 2201 Nick Westmacott Stow Neighbourhood Policing Team Message Sent By Nicholas Westmacott (Police, PC, Cire)

Report 0f Suspected Arson - Mickleton
Gloucestershire police incident 410 27/06/18
Police have received a report from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue to a suspected Arson in a field near Mickleton. Police have been given a suspects name and will be making enquiries.
Thankfully the fire was extinguished with no injuries or major damage caused.
Anyone with any further information is asked to call 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk

Many thanks, PC 2201 Nick Westmacott
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Summer Drink Drive Campaign
Police have recently been called by members of the public on two consecutive days where the witness to a drink driver has flagged down the suspected drink driver and called police on 999.
We would like to thank the public for helping stop these drivers from committing further offences of harming someone.

On both occasions police have found the driver to be over the legal limit which is 35ug/100ml of breath. Driver one on Tuesday 26th June was twice the legal limit when put on the station breath machine. Driver two on Wednesday 27th June was three time the legal limit when put on the station breath machine.

Anyone who suspects a drink driver can contact us by telephoning 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk. If you suspect a drink driver who is driving please call 999.

Many thanks, PC 2201 Nick Westmacott
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Dogs Die In Hot Cars
Many people still believe that it is ok to leave a dog in a car on a warm day if the windows are left open or they're parked in the shade, but the truth is, it's still a very dangerous situation for the dog. A car can become as hot as an oven very quickly, even when it doesn't feel that warm. When it's 22 degrees, in a car it can reach an unbearable 47 degrees within the hour.
Help a dog in a hot car
• Establish the animal's health and condition. If it's displaying any signs of heatstroke dial 999 immediately.
• If the situation becomes critical for the dog and the police are too far away or unable to attend, many peoples instinct will be to break into the car to free the dog.
If you decide to do this, please be aware that without proper justification, this could be classed as criminal damage and, potentially, you may need to defend your actions in court.
• Make sure you tell the police what you intend to do and why. Take pictures or videos of the dog and the names and numbers of witnesses to the incident. The law states that you have a lawful excuse to commit damage if you believe that the owner of the property that you damage would consent to the damage if they knew the circumstances (section 5(2)(a) Criminal Damage Act 1971).
If the dog isn't displaying symptoms of heatstroke
• Establish how long the dog has been in the car. A pay and display ticket could help.
• Make a note of the cars registration. If the owner returns, but you still feel the situation was dangerous for the dog, you may still report the incident to the police.
• If you're at a shop, venue or event, ask the staff to make an announcement to alert the owner of the situation.
• If possible, get someone to stay with the dog to monitor their condition. If they begin to display signs of distress or heatstroke, be prepared to dial 999.

Many thanks, PCSO 9283 Cassie Wilford
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Follow Up Calls Computer Software Service Fraud
There is concern that victims of previous Computer Software Service Fraud (CSSF) are being re-targeted for “owed money”. The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) reports that CSSF scammers are returning to contact previous victims, requesting that they pay money owed for a fake malware protection service they had provided. Alternatively, the fraudster will ask for a new subscription fee in return for protection from a new threat. The victims that have made payments to the fraudsters have done so via credit/debit card payments. In some instances threatening and aggressive language has been used against victims, as part of the attempt to coerce them into sending money. Computer Software Service Fraud involves the victim being contacted, told that there is a problem with their computer, and that for a fee this issue can be resolved. The aim of the fraudster at this point is usually to gain remote access to the victim's computer and, subsequently, access to their online banking account. No fix actually occurs. The victims will often be cold-called or will receive a pop-up on their computer, prompting them to phone the suspect. The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau has noticed an increase in such reports since the beginning of May (2018).
Protect Yourself by not making payments to unsolicited calls or pop-ups, do not allow remote access to your computer, and don't be rushed or pressured into making a decision. Under no circumstances would a genuine bank, or another trusted organisation, force you to make a financial transaction on the spot and they would never ask you to transfer money into another account for fraud reasons. Listen to your instincts. If something feels wrong then it is usually right to question it. Criminals may lull you into a false sense of security when you are out and about or rely on your defences being down when you're in the comfort of your own home. They may appear trustworthy, but they may not be who they claim to be.
For more information about how to protect yourself online, visit www.cyberaware.gov.uk and takefive-stopfraud.org.uk .
If you have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it to us at Actionfraud.police.uk, or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Message Sent by
Action Fraud (Action Fraud, Administrator, National)
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HMRC Scam Phone Calls - Itunes Voucher Scam
Gloucestershire Police incident 223 15/06/18 and 325 08/08/18
On 15th June this year my colleague PC Nick Westmacott sent out a community alert regarding scam phone calls, usually made to elderly victims, in which recipients were informed of an outstanding tax bill with HMRC and instructed to purchase large quantities of iTunes vouchers in order to pay the debt. They are later contacted again during which the offender obtains the voucher codes.
This scam continues. On 8th August Police in the Cotswolds were notified of a further offence. An 86 year old lady from Cirencester was contacted by a scammers purporting to be from Her Majesty's Revenue & Customs. She was told she owed HMRC money and threatened with court action. In this instance she was instructed to purchase £700.00 of Google Play vouchers and provided the offender with the codes to enable their use. Although most of us would not fall victim to this type of crime the offenders will target vulnerable members of the community and need very few 'successes' to make it worth their while.
Our incident number is 325 of the 8th and the investigating officer is PC Nigel Bates. His message is, "HMRC will never cold call you and (obviously) would never make such a demand." Please consider sharing this message with older family members and neighbours.
Thank you. Garrett Gloyn (Police, PS, Cirencester

Police have received a report which has been confirmed as a scam phone call fraud. Residents in the North Cotswolds have been phoned by a male with a foreign accent saying he works for the Tax office (HMRC) The victim is asked to go to Stow Tesco and buy £1000 in iTunes voucher to pay off the debt they owe in tax to HMRC.

The caller asks that they keep this secret from family , friends and the police and when buying the iTunes vouchers they are to tell the store the iTunes vouchers are a gift. The victim is then called again once they have the vouchers to give the code over the phone. Thankfully staff at Stow Tesco have been appraised and will not allow larger amounts of iTunes voucher to be sold. On this occasion no one has been victim of this type of fraud.
Police are asking the public to be aware of this and similar scams where the caller wants payment in vouchers or a credit card. Always check the caller identity. Never give away personal details such as nation insurance numbers , bank account details, credit and debit card details over the phone. Always keep your credit and debit card PIN secret.

Your bank will never ask for these details over the phone nor will police or any government agency. If you think the call is a scam , just hang the phone up and report this to police.

Many thanks, PC 2201 Westmacott
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Courier Fraud
The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau has identified an increasing number of reports submitted to Action Fraud from the public concerning courier fraud. Fraudsters are contacting victims by telephone and purporting to be a police officer or bank official. To substantiate this claim, the caller might be able to confirm some easily obtainable basic details about the victim such as their full name and address. They may also offer a telephone number for the victim to call to check that they are genuine; this number is not genuine and simply redirects to the fraudster who pretends to be a different person. After some trust has been established, the fraudster will then, for example, suggest;
- Some money has been removed from a victim's bank account and staff at their local bank branch are responsible.
- Suspects have already been arrested but the “police” need money for evidence.
- A business such as a jewellers or currency exchange is operating fraudulently and they require assistance to help secure evidence.

Victims are then asked to cooperate in an investigation by attending their bank and withdrawing money, withdrawing foreign currency from an exchange or purchasing an expensive item to hand over to a courier for examination who will also be a fraudster. Again, to reassure the victim, a safe word might be communicated to the victim so the courier appears genuine.
At the time of handover, unsuspecting victims are promised the money they've handed over or spent will be reimbursed but in reality there is no further contact and the money is never seen again.
Protect Yourself
Your bank or the police will never: - Phone and ask you for your PIN or full banking password. - Ask you to withdraw money to hand over to them for safe-keeping, or send someone to your home to collect cash, PIN, cards or cheque books if you are a victim of fraud.
Don't assume an email or phone call is authentic
Just because someone knows your basic details (such as your name and address or even your mother's maiden name), it doesn't mean they are genuine. Be mindful of who you trust – criminals may try and trick you into their confidence by telling you that you've been a victim of fraud.
Stay in control
If something feels wrong then it is usually right to question it. Have the confidence to refuse unusual requests for personal or financial information.
For more information about how to protect yourself online visit www.cyberaware.gov.uk and www.takefive.stopfraud.org.uk


Message Sent by
Action Fraud (Action Fraud, Administrator, National)
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Male Exposing Himself at Batsford Arboretum
Gloucestershire police incident 181 14/06/18
Police received a report on Wednesday 13th June at 7:00pm that a lone female was walking from Hospital Road Moreton to Batsford Arboretum and briefly spoke to a male dog walker at the Arboretum. They parted ways but the male followed the female and exposed himself. She was able to get away and report this to us.
The description of the male is he is aged about 65 years old and was wearing a brown oversized shirt and blue jeans. His appearance was described as shabby. There is no description of his dog but it was carrying a blue dog toy.
Anyone with any information is asked to either call 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk quoting the incident number above. Police are asking the public to be aware but not to panic. This so far has been an isolated incident.

Many thanks, PC 2201 Westmacott
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Drone flying over Chipping Campden
Gloucestershire police incident 230 14/06/18
Police have received a report of a drone flying over Chipping Campden High Street at 1:40pm on Thursday 14th June. You are reminded that new legislation has come into force by the Civil Aviation Authority that drones are only to be flown over public places with permission and a licence from the CAA. Further information can be found: here. If anyone is found to be flying a drone without a licence police will prosecute.

Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott
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Criminal Damage To Mickleton Play Area
Gloucestershire police incident 137 11/06/18 - Crime ref CR/16588/18
On Saturday 30th June, the community in Mickleton came out to support the local parish council and clean up the graffiti in Mickleton play park.
Police have now concluded the investigation where two local male youths have admitted to spray painting the equipment, fences, walls and grass in the park. The parish council have accepted an apology by letter from both youths. However if they come to police attention again they are more likely to face prosecution. This recent investigation has given them the chance to change their bad behaviour.
This has been a good example of the community coming together and supporting the parish council in the clean up and the council have asked me to pass on their thanks to the families that came out to clean and clear up the park on saturday. Police have finalised the investigation as a local community resolution and the youths involved will not be prosecuted or get criminal convictions. This will help them in later years to get employment.

Police have now identified four local youths involved in the graffiti at Mickleton Play Area last weekend. Two have been found to be responsible for some of the damage and the other two were just present at the time.
Police have conducted formal interviews with the youths who have admitted to causing some of the damage to the park, and their parents. Police will now refer the investigation to Children First and the Youth Offending Team in Gloucestershire. The offending child has offered to write a letter of apology to the local parish council.

Police have received a report that the Mickleton Play area has been vandalised over the weekend between Friday 8th and Monday 11th June. Red and blue spray paint has been painted on trees, benches, fences and some of the play equipment.

In a separate incident three youths have been reported for throwing stones at properties bordering on Mickleton Play area. These three youths have been identified and will be spoken to in front of their parents.

Police have been given a local youth name for the criminal damage and will be making follow up enquiries. Anyone with any further information is asked to call 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk quoting the incident number above.

Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott
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Common Investment Scams
Most anti-fraud resources online don't adequately cover investment fraud. This website covers 9 common investment scams and provides a simple checklist to help you protect any money you may want to invest.

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TSB Port Out Alert
There has been an increase in reports made in May by TSB customers relating to “port-out” fraud. Fraudsters are number porting a victim's telephone number to a SIM card under their control and then using the number to access the victim's bank accounts.
The increase in the number of reports corresponds with the timing of TSB's computer system update, which resulted in 1.9 million users being locked out of their accounts. Opportunistic fraudsters are using TSB's system issue to target individuals, which follows the increase in phishing and smishing communications also targeting TSB customers this month. Victims' bank account and personal details including their phone number are collected by the fraudster, providing them with the information to execute the fraud.
Number porting is a genuine service provided by telecommunication companies. It allows customers to keep their existing phone number and transfer it to a new SIM card. The existing network provider sends the customer a Port Authorisation Code (PAC), that when presented to the new provider allows the number to be transferred across. This service can, however, be abused by fraudsters. To gain control of the victim's phone number, fraudsters convince the victim's mobile phone network provider to swap their number on to a SIM card in the fraudster's control. Once the fraudster has control of the number they are able to intercept the victim's text messages, allowing them to use services linked to the victim's phone number. This can include requesting an online banking password reset or access to any two factor authentication services.
Victims have reported large losses as a result of this fraud. One victim initially dismissed text messages received from their network provider containing a PAC number. Two days later £6,000 was removed from the victim's TSB current account. The victim subsequently contacted their phone provider and was informed that someone contacted the provider purporting to be the victim and had cancelled their contract and transferred their number to a new SIM. This action allowed the banking fraud to take place.

Protect Yourself: PAC Code notifications
If you receive an unsolicited notification about a PAC Code request, contact your network provider immediately to terminate the request. Also notify your bank about your phone number being compromised.
Clicking on links/files: Don't be tricked into giving a fraudster access to your personal or financial details. Never automatically click on a link in an unexpected email or text. Remember, criminals can spoof the phone numbers and email addresses of companies you know and trust, such as your bank.
Requests to move money:A genuine bank or organisation will never contact you out of the blue to ask for your PIN, full password or to move money to another account.
Port-out Fraud versus SIM Swapping: Port-out fraud is often incorrectly referred to as SIM swap fraud. SIM swap fraud works in a similar fashion, however, instead of porting the victim's number to a new network provider, the fraudster impersonates the victim and requests a new SIM card for their account. Once they have access to the new sim, they have access to the number.

Message Sent by
Action Fraud (Action Fraud, Administrator, National)
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TSB Phishing Attacks
There has been a sharp rise in fraudsters sending out fake text messages (smishing) and phishing emails claiming to be from TSB. The increase in the number of reports corresponds with the timing of TSB's computer system update, which resulted in 1.9 million users being locked out of their accounts. Opportunistic fraudsters are using TSB's system issue to target people with this type of fraud.

Since the start of May there have been 321 phishing reports of TSB phishing made to Action Fraud. This is an increase of 970% on the previous month. In the same reporting period, there have been 51 reports of cybercrime to Action Fraud which mention TSB – an increase of 112% on the previous month.
Fraudsters are commonly using text messages as a way to defraud unsuspecting victims out of money. Known as smishing, this involves the victim receiving a text message purporting to be from TSB. The message requests that the recipient clicks onto a website link that leads to a phishing website designed to steal online banking details. Although text messages are currently the most common delivery method, similar communications have been reported with fraudsters using email and telephone to defraud individuals.

In several cases, people have lost vast sums of money, with one victim losing £3,890 after initially receiving a text message claiming to be from TSB. Fraudsters used specialist software which changed the sender ID on the message so that it looked like it was from TSB. This added the spoofed text to an existing TSB message thread on the victim's phone. The victim clicked on the link within the text message and entered their personal information. Armed with this information, the fraudsters then called the victim back and persuaded them to hand over their banking authentication code from their mobile phone. The fraudsters then moved all of the victim’s savings to a current account and paid a suspicious company.

Protect Yourself:
Don't assume an email or text is authentic: Always question uninvited approaches in case it's a scam. Phone numbers and email addresses can be spoofed, so always contact the company directly via a known email or phone number (such as the one on the back of your bank card).
Clicking on links/files
Don't be tricked into giving a fraudster access to your personal or financial details. Never automatically click on a link in an unexpected text or email. Remember, a genuine bank will never contact you out of the blue to ask for your full PIN or password. If you have received a suspicious TSB email, please do not respond to it, report it to us https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report_phishing and also forward it to emailscams@tsb.co.uk
Every Report Matters. If you have been a victim of fraud or cyber crime, report it to us online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Visit Take Five and Cyber Aware for more information about how to protect yourself online.

Message Sent by
Action Fraud (Action Fraud, Administrator, National)
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Burglaries - Chipping Campden
Gloucestershire police incident 112 20/05/18
Police were called to an intruder in a property in George Lane Chipping Campden at 5:05am on Sunday 20th May.
The suspect, a 22 year old male , was arrested on suspicion of burglary.
Anyone with further information is asked to call 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk quoting the incident number above.

Gloucestershire police incident 426 17/05/18
Police have received a report of a dwelling burglary in Blind lane Chipping Campden on Thursday 17th May between 8:00am and 4:00pm
Jewellery has been stolen front the house.
Anyone with any information is asked to call police quoting the incident number above, on 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk

Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott
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Community Speed Watch - Chipping Campden
I have been out with the Community Speed Watch (CSW) group in Chipping Campden today.
Aston Road - Two cars stopped and warned for excess speed 30MPH zone.
Westington Road - Two cars stopped and warned excess speed 30MPH zone One car stopped for 45MPH in a 30 MPH zone and issued a ticket.

Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott
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Dog walking on farm land
Gloucestershire police have received calls from concerned farmers regarding dog walkers leaving dog 's faeces on farm land , especially in fields with live stock. If a dog has worms this can be treated. If sheep pick up dog worms , this can not be treated and the sheep become very sick and will die.
We are asking dog owners to be responsible and to pick up after their dogs in all rural areas. In public areas there are plenty of dog poo or other bins around. If found committing this offence there is a fine of up to £1500.

Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott
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PCSOs for Willersey
As part of the new Neighbourhood Policing offer for Gloucestershire Constabulary, Chief Constable Rod Hansen along with Police and Crime Commissioner Martin Surl has pledged that each area will have a named Police Community support officer.

The local Police Community Support Officers for your parish are PCSO Paul Hancock & PCSO Cassie Wilford, who are supported by colleagues in the local policing team. They can be contacted in a number of ways including our website including our website where you can follow the link to your policing area and use the contact your team link. You can also use the 01452 907200 number for Cotswold District and leave a message or contact 101 with your concern and it will sent to the officer via our control room.

Over the coming months you will see the officers out in your parish. Please look on our website for the advertised dates for the community engagement vehicle. You can visit the vehicle and speak with local officers about any community concerns you may have or for advice on crime prevention.
Please also take a look at community alerts as we are currently signing up residents in the Cotswold area; this can be completed via the website.

Regards Inspector Karen Ellis
Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Cotswolds Policing Area.
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Damage to Grave Ornaments - Mickleton Church Yard
Gloucestershire police incident 204 07/05/18
Police have received a report of ornaments and wooden cross pulled up from a grave in Mickleton church yard between 6:00pm Sunday 6th and 10:00am Monday 7th May.
Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott
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Cars broken into - Evenlode and Moreton
Gloucestershire police incident 101 07/05/1
Police have received a report of a car broken into in Evenlode Monday 7th May between 6:00 and 6:30pm.
This appears to be similar to a car break in Batsford Road, Moreton a few days earlier.

Police received a report that a car was being broken into in Primrose Court , Moreton-in-Marsh at 2:45 am on Friday 4th May. Police attended and five persons got into a silver car and drove off from from police. The car was abandoned in Redesdale Place, Moreton. One person was located in Redesdale Place and was arrested for drug offences, it is not known if this person was linked to the earlier report in Primrose Court.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk
Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott
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TV Providers Discount Fraud
The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) have noticed an increase in Action Fraud reports where fraudsters are offering a discount on Television service provider subscriptions. Fraudsters are cold-calling victims, purporting to be from a Television (TV) provider offering a discount on their monthly subscription. Victims have been told the following: their subscription needs to be renewed; that part or all, of the TV equipment has expired and they are due an upgrade on the equipment/subscription. In order to falsely process the discount, the fraudster asks victims to confirm or provide their bank account details. The scammers may also request the victim's identification documents, such as scanned copies of passports.
The fraudsters are using the following telephone numbers: “08447111444”, “02035190197” and “08001514141”. The fraudster’s voices are reported to sound feminine and have an Asian accent. Later victims make enquiries and then discover that their TV service provider did not call them and that the fraudster has made transactions using the victim's bank account details. This type of fraud is nationwide. Since the beginning of this year (2018), there have been 300 Action Fraud Reports relating to this fraud. From the reports received, victims aged over 66 seem to be the most targeted.
What you need to do:-
• Don't assume a phone call or email is authentic: Just because someone knows your basic details (such as your name and address or even your mother's maiden name), it doesn't mean they are genuine. Criminals can exploit the names of well-known companies in order to make their scams appear genuine.
• Don't be rushed or pressured into making a decision: a genuine company won’t force you to make a financial decisions on the spot. Always be wary if you're pressured to purchase a product or service quickly, and don't hesitate to question uninvited approaches in case it's a scam.
• Stay in control: Have the confidence to refuse unusual requests for personal or financial information. Always contact the company yourself using a known email or phone number, such as the one written on a bank statement or bill.

Visit Take Five (takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/advice/) and Cyber Aware (cyberaware.gov.uk) for more information about how to protect yourself online.

Message Sent By National Action Fraud Administrator
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Recovered stolen quad bike - Mickleton
Gloucestershire police incident 22 30/04/18
Police were on patrol in Mickleton this morning Monday 30th April at 02:20 when they spotted a silver Subaru estate in convoy with a quad bike. Police indicated the vehicles to stop and the rider of the quad jumped off and got in the silver Subaru. The car then made off from police down the Broad Marston Road, Mickleton.
Police have traced the owner of the quad which was stolen a few minutes earlier from a farm near to Mickleton.
Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk quoting the incident number above.
Many thanks, PC 2201 Westmacott
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Police drug stop and search
On Friday 27th April, 2018 in Cotsmore Close, Moreton-in-Marsh, police stopped and searched a vehicle with two occupants after a strong smell of drugs came from the vehicle. Police found a substantial amount of what they believed to be cannabis. The two occupants to the vehicle aged about 20 years old were arrested for suspicion of possession of a class B drug with intent to supply.
Both persons have now been released under investigation.
PC 2201 Westmacott
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What you need to know about phishing
What is phishing?
Fraudulently sending emails purporting to be from reputable companies in order to trick individuals into revealing personal information, such as passwords and financial information.
Phishing can also be carried out over text messages (smishing) and phone calls (vishing).
Links
Don't click on the links in unsolicited emails and texts.
Attachments
Don't open attachments in unsolicited emails.
Your information
Don't reveal personal or financial information as a result of unsolicited emails, texts or calls.
Message sent by National Action Fraud Administrator
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FIFA 2018 World Cup Alert
The 2018 FIFA World Cup will take place from 14th June – 15th July 2018. The worldwide demand for match tickets, flight tickets, and somewhere to stay throughout the competition is expected to be significant. Those planning to travel should exercise caution when considering the purchase of tickets or accommodation because the event is highly likely to be targeted by fraudsters looking to take advantage of unsuspecting fans.
Fraudsters will likely be posing as;
- Official World Cup ticket vendors or private individuals attempting to sell on a match ticket via online marketplace.
- A fraudulent website or operator offering non-existent flights or other transport to host cities.
- An accommodation booking service, hotel or operator, offering seemingly convenient accommodation in one of the host cities for the duration of the game.
- Lottery or competition organisers claiming that you’ve won a prize or cash related to the tournament.

Protect yourself:
Listen to your instincts: If something feels wrong then it is usually right to question it. Fraudsters will use the promise of steep discounts to lure you into handing over your money or revealing personal/financial details.
Clicking on links/files: Don’t be tricked into giving a fraudster access to your personal or financial details, and never automatically click on a link in an unexpected email or text.
Visit the Action Fraud website and take a look at their Ticket Fraud, Holiday Fraud and Lottery Fraud advice pages before making any decisions or bookings.
For useful advice and information on the World Cup please visit the Government Guidance Pages: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/be-on-the-ball-world-cup-2018

Visit Take Five (takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/advice/) and Cyber Aware (cyberaware.gov.uk) for more information about how to protect yourself online.
Message sent by National Action Fraud Administrator
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Police Speed Checks - North Cotswolds
Police have recently attended a number of parish council AMG's. The main complaints from members of the public to police have been concerns about speeding in villages in the North Cotswolds. As a result police will now be conducting a series of speed checks at the following locations over the coming months.
Moreton-in-Marsh - London Road and Stow Road
Chipping Campden - Station Road and Aston Road
Stow-on-the-Wold - A436 Oddington Road
Bourton-on-the-Water - Landsdown (20mph) and Rissington Road
Blockley - Station Road (20mph) and Greenway Road
Bourton-on-the-Hill - A44
Northleach - East End and West End - Supporting new community speed watch group.
Andoversford - A436 at the primary school
We will also be supporting other community speed watch locations. Police will be issuing offence tickets in support of the community speed watch initiative.
Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott

Police Speed Checks North Cotswolds Update
Firstly apologises, I missed out a few villages that we will be covering over the next few months for speed checks. I personally cover Moreton-in-Marsh and Chipping Campden so these are the areas I will be looking at. We will be conducting checks in all the main villages that residents have asked us to look at.
Today I have covered:
Moreton-in-Marsh - Stow Road 4 vehicles stopped, a HGV , a commercial van and 2 cars all doing over 30mph but under 40mph. All drivers advised.
Moreton-in-Marsh - London Road - No vehicles speeding . One car signalled to slow down entering 30mph from Fire College direction.
Bourton-on-the-Hill -A44 - No cars stopped but 5-6 cars told to slow down coming down the hill.
Blockley - Station Road - No vehicles speeding in 20mph or 30 mph.
Chipping Campden - Station Road - No vehicles speeding.
Each area was given 20 - 30 minutes. Although all drivers today were given verbal warnings once the public gets used to seeing us out doing speeding checks we will be issuing tickets, so no excuses!!!

Many thanks, PC 2201 Westmacott

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Attacked Lambs - Turkdean
Gloucestershire police incident 143 24/04/18
Police have received a report of 4 lambs attacked and killed by a dog in Turkdean - North Cotswolds. Dog owner are reminded to keep their dogs under control when walking on farm land and public footpath, especially at this time of year when sheep have lambs. This is costing farms hundreds of pounds with the already tight margins they have to sell their stock on at market. Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk
Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott

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Cyber safety for Children
10 apps that you need to be most aware of:

The following list has been created by the police to highlight the 10 apps that you need to be most aware of. In our continued attempt to keep you all informed of the daily, weekly and monthly challenges of cyber safety for children, we urge you to read and give advice and support as appropriate.
These are the 10 apps police have recently warned that parents need to know about if they want to keep an eye on their children's cyber safety:
1) Omegle
Omegle is a free online chat room that lets users talk anonymously to complete strangers. It randomly pairs users in one-on-one chat sessions where they can chat to people all around the world. The site now provides a mobile app that lets users chat with strangers from mobile devices.
2) Yubo (formerly called Yellow)
This app has had quite a lot press in the past for its similarity to adult dating apps & it's been criticised for letting young users exchange texts and photos with nearby strangers. Users are also able to "swipe" other users that they are interested in and swap selfies with each other. This app is designed to permit teens to flirt with each other as with Tinder. It could be used to trade naked pictures.
3) Calculator App lock
This allows users to hide private photos and videos in plain sight by disguising itself as a calculator. It also allows users to write and store private notes and securely browse the internet with a private browser. This app might look like a calculator but it actually functions as a type of secret photo vault. Other apps with similar settings include Secret Calculator Vault and Calculator + Photo Lock Vault.
4) Ask.fm
Ask.fm is a social networking site where users create profiles and send each other anonymous questions. It has been linked to cyberbullying as it allows users to send unkind questions and messages completely anonymously. The site came under fire following the deaths of two English teenagers who killed themselves after they were bullied on the site.
5) Kik messenger
Kik is a free instant messaging mobile app that allows users to send and receive messages, photos, videos and mobile web pages. Users can also join special groups and video chat using the app.
6) Hot or Not
Hot or Not is a game where you upload your best pictures and get rated by other users in your area. The app also lets users see how attractive friends are and browse through a list of the most attractive people nearby. Strangers then rate profiles with a view to meeting up.
7) Burnbook
Burnbook is an anonymous gossip app that lets users post rumours about people through audio, messages, texts and photos. It encourages cyberbullying as per the teen cult movie Mean Girls. Users can download the app for free, search for school communities within 10 miles, and share text, photo, and audio messages with other community members.
8) Wishbone
Wishbone is a controversial comparison app that allows users to compare whatever they want to. It allows users to compare children against each other and then rate them on a scale.
9) Whisper
Whisper is an anonymous app which promotes sharing secrets and meeting new people. The service allows users to post and share private photo and video messages completely anonymously. The posts, known as "whispers", consist of text superimposed over an image - which can be uploaded or selected from an in-app search engine.
10) Instagram
Probably the best-known app on the list, Instagram is a photo and video-sharing social networking service that is owned by Facebook. As with many social media platforms, users can have more than one account. Users will use one profile to interact with their friends and the other one is their normal account where they'd post what they want their family to see. In Instagram, users call this a finsta which means fake Instagram account. Users like to text using Instagram because messages are deleted once a user leaves a conversation. Children are more likely to use this app to message each other, as it is easy to delete private messages.

Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott

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Theft of sheep - Bleddington Burglary - Great Rissington
Gloucestershire police incident 450 23/04/18
Police have received a report of theft of 37 sheep from a field in Bleddington near Stow-on-the-Wold between 10/03/18 and 23/04/18.
The farmer has gone to check his stock and found a whole cut in the wire fence and all his sheep gone. The farmer believes they have been stolen due to the recent rise in trading prices for sheep at market. Anyone with any information is asked to call 101 or email 101@gloucesershire.pnn.police.uk
Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott

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Burglary - Great Rissington
Gloucestershire police incident 316 23/04/18
Police have attended a house burglary in Great Rissington on Monday 23rd April. On attendance police have found the house has been burgled while the owner were away. Police scenes of crime have attended to take forensic samples. Police are reminding residents to let their neighbours know when they plan to be away so they can keep an eye on their properties.
Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott

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Nottingham Knockers - North Cotswolds
Police have received calls from all over the North Cotswolds Monday 23rd April regarding door to door sellers.
The public are reminded to not buy any products at the door step. These persons are commonly referred to as "Notting Knockers" as in day gone by you could apply for a peddlers licence from the Chief Constable of Nottingham. Peddlers licences are still issued but the user of these licences has to meet criteria, one of which is not to have any criminal convictions.
The “Nottingham Knockers” predominately have criminal convictions and will use this to make the buyer feel sorry for them. These door to doors seller will look to see where you are going to get your money to pay them. They will smell the money to see if it smells musty and has been kept in the house for a long time. This will give them information they sell on to other criminals who may come and commit burglaries by deception at a later date.
The easiest way to get rid of these callers is to say NO. Never let them into your home. If they become aggressive call the police on 999. Police will always attend and move these person on or if we have sufficient complainers they can be issues a fix penalty notice of £90 on the spot.
Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott

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Theft from vehicle - Dovers Hill View Point
Gloucestershire police incident 171 23/04/18
Police have received a report of theft of valuables from a vehicle parked at Dovers Hill View Point , Chipping Campden at 1:00pm Monday 23rd April.
The owner of the vehicle has not left any items on show and has locked the valuables in the boot of the car. However a side window was smashed and the offender managed to gain entry to the car boot stealing the occupants handbags. It would appear the offender have watched the occupants of the car place their valuables in the boot of their car.
Police are reminding everyone to be vigilant at any of the Cotswold isolated parking areas to report any suspicious activity and we are still asking the public to hide any valuable out of sight when leaving their vehicles unattended.
Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott

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FIFA World Cup 2018 Ticket Alert
The 2018 FIFA World Cup will take place from 14th June to 15th July 2018. The worldwide demand for match tickets is expected to be significant. Action Fraud have been alerted to several websites which are offering World Cup Tickets for sale, some at highly inflated prices. A FIFA spokesperson said:
“FIFA regards the illicit sale and distribution of tickets as a very serious issue and it has been reminding all football fans that www.FIFA.com/tickets is the only official and legitimate website on which to buy 2018 FIFA World Cup tickets.”
“FIFA has received various complaints and enquiries by customers of non-authorised ticket sales platforms, and has consistently confirmed that these companies cannot guarantee access to the stadiums as the respective tickets may be cancelled. Insofar customers are at risk of investing a high amount of money (also for travelling and accommodation) without having the certainty to actually be able to attend the matches.”
FIFA have also warned that “Any tickets obtained from any other source, such as ticket brokers, internet auctions or unofficial ticket exchange platforms, will be automatically rendered void and invalid”.
Action Fraud received over six hundred reports and intelligence submissions in relation to the previous World Cup so it's vital that football fans exercise caution when considering a purchase or making a transaction.

Protect yourself:
• Don't take the risk. Tickets for the World Cup 2018 can only be purchased directly from FIFA. For more information, please visit www.FIFA.com/tickets.
• A FAN ID is required for fans to be able to enter the 2018 FIFA World Cup stadiums. Exercise caution if using a third party to obtain your FAN ID for you. You may be charged inflated costs for the service and your personal details may be compromised. For more information, please visit www.fan-id.ru.
• Visit the Take Five website for the latest guidance on how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.
• For useful advice and information on the World Cup please visit the Government Guidance Pages; https://www.gov.uk/guidance/be-on-the-ball-world-cup-2018.

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Theft of Sculptures
Gloucestershire police incident 343 19/04/18
A report of shoplifting. A black Seat Leon registration PX53 HNV with a male wearing a woollen hat and short dark hair was witnessed taking two valuable sculptures from The Finals, Stow Square at 3:30 pm Thursday 19th April. The vehicle was last seen driving down Digbeth Street towards Chipping Norton and Banbury.
If seen please report to us via 101 or 101@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk
Many thanks PC 2201 Westmacott
Stow Neighbourhood Policing Team

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Mickleton man jailed for possesion of a gun - Court update
Taken from Cotswold Journal Online 19/04/18 - Edited
A Mickleton man was jailed for 21 months for firearms offences.
Daniel Smith, 28 of Cedar Road, Mickleton, pleaded guilty on what would have been the first day of his trial at Gloucester Crown Court. He admitted possessing a double-barrelled shotgun and a single-barrelled shotgun between August 22nd and August 31st in 2017 without certificates. Smith also admitted the sale or transfer of the weapons to someone who was not a registered firearms dealer or who possessed a certificate on August 30th.
“The prosecution do not say that he was responsible for the burglary, but he came in to possession of the shotguns shortly after the burglary,” the barrister said.
“He agreed to sell the firearms to Christopher Reynolds, who is the partner of Shannon Smith,” Mr Haskell said, adding there was no relation between the two Smiths. Judge Ian Lawrie QC heard that analysis of telephone evidence showed messages exchanged between Reynolds and Daniel Smith. One read “I will buy as many of them things as you can get Dan.”
Mr Haskell said this was “ clearly a reference to the firearms”. He said that a price was agreed of %200 for the two guns.th August, when Smith travelled from Mickleton to Cheltenham at 9pm. He said that was when the exchange took place. After that date the prosecutor accepted that Daniel Smith played no further part in any offending relating to the firearms.
Mr Haskell replied “there is no evidence he [Smith] knew it was going to be shortened.”
“That is the danger of passing stolen guns on,” the judge said. “It was not for sporting purposes!
“He is part of the chain of how these firearms become part of the criminal world.”
The judge noted that the single-barrelled shotgun was “recovered from shrubbery in a Toby Carvery.”
The court heard that Daniel Smith had ten previous convictions, which the judge summarised as “pretty low grade, although irritating.”
Smith's lawyer, Sarah Jenkins, said “it was never in his mind” that one of the shotguns would be shortened and used for crimes, but “he doesn't shy away from that.”
“It is conceded that there will be an immediate custodial sentence,”she said.
“There was no plan for a repeat. “He thought he could make a couple of extra pounds for his family. “He found them stashed; hidden in a rural countryside area, plainly where someone would come back for them. He was walking his dog.
“He tried to find someone to buy them, and that was how Christopher Reynolds came to have his phone number and contacted him,” the lawyer said.
Judge Lawrie said that Daniel Smith's previous convictions showed “middling criminality of no great skill or ambition.”
“This is a significant step up,” the judge noted. “My concern is that for relatively modest amounts of money you were prepared to pass on stolen shotguns.
“I find your explanation for finding them whilst walking your dog bordering on laughable.
“The reality and danger is that when shotguns form a commodity, they are beyond the reach of the police and can be used for serious offending.
“You are going to pay a price for it,”the judge said as he imposed the total sentence of 21 months imprisonment. “Serve your prison sentence. Care for your wife,” the judge said as Smith was taken down to the cells.
PC 2201 Westmacott
Stow Neighbourhood Policing Team

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