Theft
Theft is a crime where possessions or money are stolen from you.
Even if the value of the goods or money is not big, it can still be disruptive and distressing financially and emotionally.
Some of the most common acts of theft are theft of purses/wallets and mobile phones. We have included a number of Fact Sheets below, which will give you more information.
If you have been the victim of theft, it is important to protect yourself from on-going fraud, including identity theft.
Check if any important and personal documents have been taken, including your passport, bank details or credit cards / benefit papers or driving license documents.
Alert your bank and building society as soon as possible.
Download Our PDF Factsheets
Common Types of Theft and Loss
Stolen / Lost Mobile Phone
You can register your mobile phone on Immobilise (https://www.immobilise.com) if your phone is lost or stolen but then gets found, police can use Immobilise to return it to you (Immobilise is the world’s largest FREE register of possession ownership details).
Purse / Wallet theft
Call your bank and credit card firms immediately so they can put a stop on cards.If your mobile was stolen too – get it blocked as soon as possible. When you contact the police, take note of your crime reference number. You will need this for insurance purposes and your bank will ask for it.
Theft of a Vehicle
Contact the police straight away if your vehicle has been stolen, they will issue you with a crime reference number; you will need this number when you call your insurance company. and your insurance company straight away. The police will tell DVLA about the theft and if the vehicle is found.
Contacting Us
If you report a crime to Staffordshire Police, they will ask you if you are happy for your details to be passed on to the Staffordshire Victim Gateway. Unless you opt out, we will then automatically receive your contact information and a brief overview of your experience and the crime. If you did opt out, can still self-refer at any time.
We will then contact you directly to offer our service. We can provide you with information, emotional and practical support. We can liaise and advocate on your behalf and introduce you to specialist services who can help your recovery.
Our support is free and confidential, regardless of whether you have reported a crime or incident to the police. We are here to support you.
You can also access a range of tools at www.mysupportspace.org.uk to help you cope and move forwards after crime. This is a free, safe, secure and confidential space where you can choose how you want to be supported after crime.
Crime Prevention Information
Additionally, it may also be useful for you to have advice on crime prevention that may help you to protect yourself in the future. You can find lots of useful information on local crime prevention by clicking here:
https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/