Staffordshire Police are appealing for any information about a spate of number plate thefts across the Trent Valley region.

Since the start of 2010, Police have received on average 10 reports of number plate thefts a month across the region.  The Tamworth region alone has seen some 18 thefts since the start of the year.

Burton-based Inspector, Ashley Farrington said: “We are not exactly sure what is behind the increase in these thefts but they do cause an enormous amount of worry and concern to the vehicle owners involved,

“We know that some stolen registration plates are used in crime, but the number is relatively low and does not explain the underlying reasons behind the amount of plates reported stolen.”

One theory Police have at the moment is that they are being used as trophies and being displayed in houses or bedrooms.

Inspector Farrington continued: “We want to put an end to these thefts and are appealing for help from drivers and members of the public.

“We are seeking as much information as possible to enable us to piece together a clear picture of what is happening so we can take the appropriate action.

“If necessary, we will make arrests and take people to court because although stealing a number plate from a car may seem trivial, it can damage the vehicle and put owners through unnecessary expense,”

Police are advising that number plates be fitted with strong adhesive tape as well as the screws. If someone attempts to steal the plate, it would then snap in two.

“Re-fitting number plates with strong adhesive tabs as well as the normal screws means that if someone tries to steal the plate, it will snap in half and the thief will probably give up,” he explained.

Anyone with information about car registration plate thefts can contact Inspector Farrington at Burton police station, telephone 0300 123 44 55 or, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Source [Tamworth Blog]