Minutes:
Controlled parking Zone
I know the residents wanted some input on the controlled parking zone within Forest Hill and I appreciate that this is a somewhat emotive topic but as I stated before, I cannot comment on this given it is local authority policy and the Metropolitan Police Service have no jurisdiction regarding parking enforcement and haven't had for a number of years. There are a couple of exemptions and these are vehicles parked in a dangerous position and inconsiderate parking with regards to vehicles preventing someone leaving their drive.
Burglary
I am pleased to say that generally the number of reported burglaries within Forest Hill are still on the decline. That said, we have had a small increase in the northern part of the ward in the area of Horniman Museum. I am pleased to say that a number of residents in this area are taking a lot of personal responsibility around this and contacting their SNT when strangers are seen in the area and I welcome this, may it continue as it assists us greatly. On a good note, although a local resident in this area was shocked to return home to find a couple of individuals trying to force entry to her home though they did not gain entry and made off on seeing the resident. Thankfully, this resident, though understandably upset, was still able to call police. Officers searched the area and these individuals were arrested.
Regarding the first phase of MetTrace, the smart water kit that uses a coded forensic liquid unique to each household, is nearing completion. The MPS are currently on target to visit 1 in 7 homes across London over the next 2 years and It would appear to be a significant deterrent given to date there is a 100% conviction rate at court for any offender found in possession of property marked with MetTrace not belonging to them. Phase 2 of this initiative rolls out in April although presently, I do not know which roads in Forest Hill will be receiving these kits. but residents can visit www.met.police.uk/mettrace for further details.
Personal Safety of School Children in Forest Hill.
The team have and will continue to attend the local schools in support of staff following complaints of motorists acting anti socially. The inappropriate behaviour of some parents has unfortunately placed a lot of children at risk at some of our schools through inconsiderate parking. A number of parents have to date been spoken to regarding this.
On this note, the team would like to extend their thanks to Betina the school crossing lady who covers Fairlawn Primary School who does a great job looking after the children who attend this school and we will continue to support her given previous reports of motorists failing to stop for the children and parents when they use the zebra crossing on Honor Oak Road. Unfortunately, we have also had to speak to some parents about their conduct towards Betina when she challenges such .behaviour.
Anti Social Behaviour by Beggars in and around the town centre
Following numerous complaints from local residents and businesses in the town centre around the increase in the numbers of beggars the team have spoken to a number of individuals now identified committing this offence.
One individual approached a member of the public and demanded money and when refused became very threatening and abusive. This person was arrested. Obviously, there are powers that allow us to deal with beggars and the team will continue to use these powers to deal with those identified. That said can I ask for any resident of Forest Hill that is approached by someone asking for money or begging in general to provide us with a statement. They can remain anonymous but their evidence will make it easier for us to put these individuals before a Magistrate as they very switched on and clear up or move on when seeing officers nearby and this is why these statements are so important.
Motor Vehicle Crime
We have and will continue to patrol the ward given motor vehicle related
offences have unfortunately increased of late and this relates generally to theft from motor vehicles. This crime is easily avoided if residents would only ensure all belongings are kept out of view and documents such as insurance certificates and driving licences are removed from the vehicle by owners when returning home. We have also had a small increase in theft of motor vehicles and this concerns scooters and mopeds more than cars and larger vehicles. Again, I ask for owners of these machines to ensure that they leave their scooters or mopeds in well lit areas and secured by approved locks and/or chains. If you have a garage, use it. For any advise on motor vehicle crime prevention, please do not hesitate to contact the team on 020 8721 2723 or by e-mail at ForestHill.SNT@met.police.uk