Cops hoping for Impact on vehicle crime

Operation Impact is targeting vehicle crime across Rotherham, involving more than 50 police officers and PCSOs assisted by helicopter crews, mounted officers, dog handlers and forensic units.

Beginning at 8am today, it has already led to three arrests for burglary and car theft.

Officers have also been advising drivers on how to avoid becoming victims of vehicle crime, such as leaving windows closed in hot weather and not leaving valuables on display.

Det Sgt Steve Brooks is co-ordinating the operation from Rotherham police station, Main Street.

He said: “The aim is to send a message to the public in relation to vulnerable vehicles and also to deal with suspects in a robust fashion.

“We will be executing search warrants later in the day and we have a team of detectives to deal with people taken into custody.”

Reporter Dave Doyle travelled along with police officers on Tuesday - see Friday's Advertiser for a full report.