FIVE people have been arrested and police patrols have been stepped up, following an attack and alleged theft from students in York.

 

A 20-year-old man suffered broken teeth and facial injuries in an attack in Melrosegate at about 2.20am last Saturday, it has emerged, and a 16-year-old has been arrested.

Four people were also arrested following an alleged theft in Hewley Avenue, Tang Hall, in the early hours of last Saturday, leading to an increase in police patrols in the area.

PC Frances Myers of the local Safer Neighbourhood Team, has pleaded with residents to consider their personal and home security, after officers tried the doors of 40 homes and found more than a quarter of them were unlocked, increasing the potential for sneak thieves.

PC Myers said: "While thousands of new students arrive in the city centre, local police have been making efforts to meet them and introduce themselves. Officers have been in to fresher’s week lectures and fairs to try and make sure that students in York can be safe and feel safe.

"The message that the police want to convey is that York is a beautiful, brilliant place to live and study however students need to be sensible and think twice about their own personal safety and security. Opportunistic crime can occur when people forget about simple security measures."

Residents and students are advised to have their property marked by police under the 'dot peen' scheme, but students were also urged to ensure they take care on nights out.

PC Myers said: "Stay safe when out and about on an evening. Plan your journey home before you go out, you’re much more vulnerable when alone at night, especially in drink. Have a good night and make sure people you trust know where you’re going to be.

"Officers will be out on patrols stopping students to speak to them about how they plan to get home. Lock your doors. Officers are conducting ‘Bob the burglar’ patrols in the Hull Road area trying door handles to see who doesn’t lock up. Police do not want to find any doors open. Your property is valuable, look after it."