Message from New Local Area Commander
Having started my policing career in Perth and Kinross, and having served here as Detective Inspector for CID, I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to return as Local Area Commander. I wish Graham all the best for his new role and look forward to building on the excellent work he and his team have done over the past two years and to working with our partners to ensure that we continue to deliver a high standard of service to the communities in Perth and Kinross.
Bogus Callers
I would like to take this opportunity to remind people to take precautions whilst dealing with unsolicited callers, particularly for those that are still isolating during the lockdown.
Bogus callers try to get into your home or obtain personal details by pretending to be someone they’re not, including council staff, charity collectors, meter readers and police officers. In reality, they are criminals trying to steal money and valuables.
How can I protect myself from doorstep crime?
- Be on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly.
- Keep front and back doors locked.
- Use the door viewer or nearby window when answering the door.
- Fit a door chain or bar – use it and keep it on when talking to callers at the door.
- If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door.
- Don’t feel embarrassed – genuine callers expect you to be careful.
- Only let callers in if they have an appointment and you have confirmed they are genuine.
- Always ask for identification badges of anyone you answer the door to, but don’t rely on them. Identity cards can be faked – phone the company to verify their identity.
- Some companies offer a password system. Ask your utility providers if this can be used and if you have a password with a company make sure the caller uses it.
- Never let people try to persuade you to let them into your home even if they are asking for help – they may not be genuine. If someone is persistent, ask them to call at another time and arrange for a friend or family member to be with you.
- Never agree to pay for goods or give money to strangers who arrive at your door.
- Don’t keep large amounts of money in your home.
- Remember, it’s your home. There’s no reason why anyone should ever enter your home against your wishes.
- If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door.
What action should I take if someone visits me and I think they’re a doorstep criminal?
- Keep the caller out of your house, ask them to leave and call the police immediately by dialing 101.
- You might also want to try to alert a family member or attract a neighbour’s attention but you should always contact the police first by dialing 101. The police would much rather attend a false alarm than have someone fall victim to a doorstep criminal.
- If the person refuses to leave your door, or you feel threatened or scared – Call 999 and ask for the police.
Note down their description and the description of any vehicle they’re using, including make, model, colour and registration number.
Regards,
Tom Leonard
Chief Inspector
Local Area Commander
Perth and Kinross