Saturday, July 15. POLICE are warning shoppers in Hemel Hempstead to be on their guard against pickpockets after a number of purse dippings in busy shopping areas in recent days.

Incidents often occur in supermarkets when offenders steal purses or handbags left on shopping trolleys. And other offences are occurring when people are distracted while shopping, in crowded bars or other public places.

Police are particularly warning women to be extra-vigilant as, in general, the overwhelming majority of the victims are female (72 per cent).

David Mahon, Crime Prevention Officer for Hemel Hempstead, said: "Shoppers in large retail outlets that have big Coach Wallet Bags car parks such as Tescos, Sainsburys, Asdas, DIY stores and electrical stores are being targeted by opportunistic purse dippers. We are working closely with a number of stores in a joint partnership effort to reduce this type of crime. That [bar]s why we are stepping up our patrols of places such as Jarmans Park, making sure our mobile police station is visible to deter unscrupulous offenders that often prey on the most vulnerable, such as older people."

If you have any information regarding suspicious behaviour in shopping areas please call 01442 271366 or 0800 33 00 222.

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