Man Found Asleep In Stolen Car in Wilkinson Way
Arrested after being found to be in possession of stolen jewellery
Image of the area from Google Streetview
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Police from Southfield ward team caught a suspect out while he was found having a nap in a car which contained a haul of expensive stolen jewellery.
The startled suspect tried to drive off - nearly knocking a police officer over in Wilkinson Way - but his way was blocked by the police vehicle and he was hauled out of the car.
He was later charged with multiple offences, as local
PCSO Stuart Honey explained, "On Thursday 4 April at about 9.45 in the morning, officers were
patrolling Wilkinson Way in a vehicle. Stolen mopeds have often been found
in this area so they were having a good look round.
"Their attention was drawn to a Land Rover Discovery parked in the
car park at the end of the road, as the passenger side of the windscreen
appeared to be cracked as if it had been hit by something. When they looked
into the vehicle they saw a man in the driving seat clearly asleep with
his head slumped forward with his chin resting on his chest.
"The officers parked in front of the Discovery and went to investigate.
One officer went to each side of the car and opened the door to check
on the occupant. When the officer opened the driver’s door, the
driver suddenly awoke, started the car and attempted to move off. The
officers then told him to get out of the vehicle, which he didn’t
do. He drove forwards, nearly knocking the other officer over, but was
obstructed by the parked police car.
"Both officers then pulled him out of the car. The vehicle was then
searched and several items of expensive stolen property, including jewellery,
were found.
"The driver was arrested for driving while unfit through drugs, driving
with no insurance and handling stolen goods. "
But it didn’t end there ...information from research revealed that
the vehicle was believed to be involved in an attempted burglary two days
earlier.
More information revealed that that the car had been involved in an incident
whereby another vehicle had been criminally damaged the previous day.
He was therefore also arrested for Attempted Burglary and Criminal Damage.
After this a search of the vehicle discovered a large screwdriver so he
was charged with Going Equipped.
He was bedded down in a cell and when he awoke was also charged with GBH
for driving at Police Officers, driving a Lost or Stolen Vehicle and Driving
without a Licence. It also transpired that he was also wanted for Recall
to Prison after failing to attend court.
Sgt Honey commented: "All in all a good mornings work for the two
officers. They did their job professionally and with a high level of competence
to make this area safe and secure.
"If you see anything suspicious be sure to contact police. They will
always respond and do their utmost to deal with criminals such as the
unsavoury character described above, decisively, effectively and swiftly."
To call anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
If you believe a crime is being committed call 999.
April 28, 2019
