Crackdown on firework arson in Chippenham (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Crackdown on firework arson in Chippenham

3:44pm Thursday 25th March 2010 in News By Alana Lewis

Police and fire crews have joined forces to crack down on a recent spate of arson attacks involving fireworks in Chippenham.

Officers have been called to four reports of fireworks being posted through letter boxes in two weeks, and are warning anyone involved that these acts will not be tolerated.

Patrols are being increased in Audley Road, where incidents were reported on February 24 and March 11, as well as Cinders End and Downing Street, where homes were targeted on March 14 and 16. Sergeant Allan George, of Chippenham Police, said: “Wiltshire Police utterly condemn these mindless and childish acts.

“I hope that those responsible will think about the potential consequences of their actions – a fire could easily be started even if this was not the original intention.

“I take this opportunity to remind those responsible of the seriousness of their actions.

“If people have curtains, clothes or paper behind the letter box, what started off as a practical joke could end in fire, injury or worse.”

Working with Wiltshire Fire and Rescue, police officers will be speaking to students at the three secondary schools in Chippenham to highlight the dangers of misusing fireworks.

Shop owners will be made aware of the law around firework sales, and there will be a leaflet campaign.

Sgt George said: “Offences of arson with intent to endanger life carries with it a penalty of up to life imprisonment.

“I can promise the residents of Chippenham that Wiltshire Police and Fire Service will be relentless in their investigations into these matters.

“We have both visible measures and undercover options to call upon in order to prevent and detect these offences.”

Sgt George said: “I would also like to reassure the public and especially those responsible that they will receive robust policing and the full weight of the law in any prosecutions.

“Rest assured that if you continue with these acts – you face the prospect of imprisonment.

“We urge anyone with any information to come forward which will as always be treated in the strictest of confidence. ’’ Anyone with any information can call Wiltshire police on 0845 4087000.