Trust your gut feeling - it is often right

How many of you love to browse the goodies on sale at car boot sales, market stalls and antique fairs?
DI Ash Wilson pictured at Worksop Police Station  (w120924-8b)DI Ash Wilson pictured at Worksop Police Station  (w120924-8b)
DI Ash Wilson pictured at Worksop Police Station (w120924-8b)

While the majority of traders are honest, law-abiding people trying to make a bit of extra cash, the detective in me can’t help but keep my eyes open for stolen goods.

These sorts of outlets are often used to peddle stolen property. As a buyer you expect to be getting second-hand goods with a bit of wear and tear. You might also be less inclined to ask for a receipt. But would you recognise a stolen item if you saw one?

It’s not an exact science, but if an item has been security marked by etching/engraving or indelible marker, or its serial number has been scratched off be suspicious.

And trust your gut. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.

We don’t all carry UV lamps in our pockets to check for SmartWater marking, but if you suspect something you have bought may be stolen bring it to the station and we can check it for you.

To advise you on how best to protect your property and reduce your chances of becoming a victim of burglary, we are launching a campaign at the end of this month.

As part of this we have invited 11 to 14-year-olds from schools across Bassetlaw, Newark and Sherwood to design a poster to help raise awareness among their communities, families and friends of how to protect their property from thieves.

We are looking forward to seeing what ideas they come up with.

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