No hiding place as police launch crime crackdown

Nov 26 2009 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

CRIMINALS are being warned there’s no safe haven in West Lothian.

That’s the message from police as they launch the latest phase of Operation Focus in the county.

Building on the success of the operation which took place at the end of April this year, police are leading the multi-agency crackdown to let criminals know they are not welcome in West Lothian.

Known offenders who police suspect may still be involved in crime are being sent letters warning them of the consequences if officers find them breaking the law.

Superintendent Jeanette McDiarmid who is leading Focus 2, said: “We are listening to communities and working with our partners to tackle the issues affecting residents. I want to reassure them that we will always take the strongest possible action against those committing crime.

“Operation Focus has already been a great success so far this year, and this is due to the willingness of the community to work with us.”

Leader of West Lothian Council, Peter Johnston, added his support.

He said: “We are backing this campaign to target illegal activity of any kind.”

Also involved in the operation are Lothian Fire and Rescue Service and health agencies.

Anyone with any information on crime should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131 or Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.