Derbyshire Police Looking For More ‘Treat Than Trick’ This Halloween

Police officers in Safer Neighbourhood teams across Derbyshire are preparing for this year’s Halloween and are asking for help from members of the public.

Halloween can be a time for fun and dressing up, as children take part in the tradition of trick or treat, however for some in our communities it can be a real worry.

Throughout the year the police often give the advice to householders to be wary of opening the door to strangers and yet the very concept of Halloween can work against this.

This year, to try and alleviate some of the worries, whilst allowing all the fun of Halloween to continue, Derbyshire Police are asking people to contact them if they are worried about Halloween or perhaps have experienced problems in the past.

Chief Inspector Malc Bibbings, explained further: “We know that for some in our communities Halloween can be a real worry as quite rightly they are concerned about opening the door to strangers.

“We also know that in the past, the time of year has been used as an excuse for some to cause anti-social behaviour.

“Our Safer Neighbourhood teams across the county are currently working on their patrol strategies for the Halloween period so we would ask that if anyone has had any previous concerns, particularly our most vulnerable in society, that they make contact with us so these areas can be included in our patrols.

“We would also ask that parents and carers accompany their children whilst trick or treating and only call on friends, neighbours or relatives that are expecting you.”

Derbyshire Police have produced some leaflets and posters that offer further advice and can be displayed asking trick or treaters not to call. Copies can be obtained from your local Safer Neighbourhood team or printed off as they are displayed here and here.

To contact your local Safer Neighbourhood team use one of the following non-emergency contact methods:

• Facebook – send a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary
• Twitter –  direct message the contact centre on @DerPolContact
• Website –  complete the online contact form www.derbyshire.police.uk/Contact-Us.
• Phone – call the police on 101.

Please note in the event of an emergency you should always call 999.

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org