Residents are being urged to stop relying on social media to report suspicious activity after a Mid Devon police inspector warned officers often do not see posts shared online.
Mid Devon sector inspector Mark Arthurs said members of the public should instead contact police through 101, 999 in emergencies, or via the Devon and Cornwall Police website and online chat service.
In an update shared through Devon and Cornwall Community Messaging, Insp Arthurs outlined recent policing activity across the district, including arrests linked to thefts in Crediton and action targeting anti-social behaviour in Tiverton.
He said there would be a further update regarding a “charity box thief” who stole from shops in Crediton, adding that several other people had also been arrested and charged in connection with theft offences in the town.
Insp Arthurs said street marshals in Tiverton would remain in place for another six months after funding was provided by the police and crime commissioner. He described the marshals as “a real asset” in helping tackle anti-social behaviour.
He also said officers recently joined licensing officers from Mid Devon District Council for a “pubs against drugs” operation in Cullompton and Tiverton using a specialist drugs dog.
Insp Arthurs said: “This was an excellent opportunity to work with licensees and partner agencies to disrupt drugs activity in pubs.”
The inspector also highlighted ongoing work with partner agencies to tackle rural crime across the district.
However, much of the update focused on how residents should contact police when reporting incidents.
Insp Arthurs said: “Please do not tag us in incidents on social media. We simply do not see it.”
He said many residents may assume officers are aware of incidents because posts are widely shared online, but warned this is often not the case.
Insp Arthurs added that suspicious behaviour reported promptly by phone recently led officers to a building site in Willand where thousands of pounds worth of equipment was allegedly being stolen.
He said local response officers attended alongside neighbourhood policing staff, leading to “a little bit of a chase” and the arrest of two suspects.
According to Insp Arthurs, the suspects remain on bail while officers prepare a file for a charging decision.
He also urged residents to report anti-social behaviour directly to police, saying officers can use measures outside the criminal justice system, including injunctions and closure orders for nuisance properties where thresholds are met.
Insp Arthurs said residents unsure how to report issues should use the guidance available through the Devon and Cornwall Police website.
Information about contacting police is available through the Devon and Cornwall Police website at www.devon-cornwall.police.uk.
