Councillors crack down on crime

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 29th Jul 2009

A community project designed to keep people safe has been successful in North West Leeds.

The CASAC project targets streets where there have been burglaries as well as vulnerable people such as the elderly and helps to improve security in their homes.

The Community Action & Support Against Crime (CASAC) project was given £60,000 from the North West Outer Area committee last year and councillors are delighted with the success of the scheme so far.

The team will suggest measures to improve security and pay for the costs for window locks, door bolts and extra security around doors. The team also provides a free online system where you can receive email and text message alerts about suspected criminal activity in your area.

Cllr Chris Townsley North West Outer Area committee chair (Lib Dem, Horsforth) said:

"The £60,000 we gave to CASAC has so far been money well spent. We are extremely pleased to be doing our bit to protect vulnerable people in our wards."

Cllr Colin Campbell (Lib Dem, Otley and Yeadon) said:

"This project has been particularly successful, in Otley and Yeadon we have 114 houses now secured. It is so successful that we have run out of money but we are trying to look for other sources of funding to ensure it continues."

Cllr Brian Cleasby (Lib Dem, Horsforth) said:

"In Horsforth we still have some money available and the team are currently visiting properties in our area. Even if you are not in one of the target streets or part of a vulnerable group the CASAC team still offer help and advice about how to better secure your home."

Inspector Richard Coldwell (North West Outer Neighbourhood Policing Team) said:

"The target hardening scheme funded by the North West Outer area committee has been a resounding success. Several hundred properties have already received improved security measures and there are plans to roll out more into other areas.

"We welcome initiatives like this where different agencies, with the assistance of our local councillors work together to improve community safety. It is important that everyone does their bit but we are still getting far too many properties attacked where the thieves have just walked in or climbed through an open window. Remember please, lock your doors and windows!."

Notes to editors

Anyone who needs more advice should visit our web site at www.westyorkshire.police.uk, don't forget to visit your local NPT website

too, you can access it through this site.

The North West Outer Neighbourhood Policing Team covers Adel & Wharfedale, Guiseley & Rawdon, Horsforth, Otley & Yeadon Wards.

To activate and subscribe for free texts and email alerts from CASAC visit their website:- www.casac.org.uk