Community Priority – Downs Road, Dunstable
Theft From Motor Vehicle
A recent rise in theft from motor vehicles in the Downs Road area of Dunstable has been identified as the community priority for this quarter. This priority has been set based on feedback gathered through the Bedfordshire Talking Survey and supported by current crime data.
Over the next three months, local officers will be focusing on targeted activity to reduce theft from motor vehicles. This will include proactive patrols, intelligence‑led engagement, and crime prevention work to support residents and reduce opportunities for offending.
If you have any concerns about your local area, or information that may assist officers, please contact the team via:
DunstableNPT@beds.police.uk
Please reference: Problem Solving Package 3274/25 – PC 168 Asif Sabir
Your information helps shape our policing priorities and ensures we can respond effectively to the issues that matter most to the community.

Issued 02 April 2026

This priority has been continued for this priority period due to ongoing concerns

Ongoing Work to Reduce Theft From Motor Vehicles – Downs Road, Dunstable
Officers are continuing to work proactively with partner agencies to reduce theft from motor vehicles in the Downs Road area. This type of crime has a significant impact on victims, and reducing these offences remains a key local priority.
Our ongoing efforts include:

Targeted patrols in affected locations
Plain‑clothes patrols to identify and deter offenders
Community engagement with residents and businesses
Crime prevention advice to help reduce opportunities for offending

We encourage anyone with information that may assist our enquiries to contact us. Community intelligence plays an important role in helping us identify those responsible.
Please ensure you remove all valuables from your vehicle, even if you are leaving it for a short period of time. Simple steps can make a significant difference in preventing opportunistic theft.
Your local Neighbourhood Policing Team is always available should you require crime prevention advice or support.

Actioned 02 July 2026

Ongoing ASB and shoplifting in the Bedford Square area, predominantly between Pound Stretchers and Greggs. ASB occurring in the main square area and throughout the library with youths behaving in an anti-social manner and riding electric Surron bike/e-scooters throughout causing distress to the public.

Issued 02 April 2026

This priority has been agreed to remain in place for the next quarter. As such OIC to progress the EVA as previously mentioned which may assist in identifying areas where other agencies can assist in reducing the issues within this area, Whilst this is in the planning stages, patrols to continue in the location to identify and reduce any ASB. I am aware that attendance for patrols has been limited / sporadic. This is largely down to resourcing and abstractions to other priorities that come through to the team on a daily basis. OIC to update all enquiries that are in progress / completed and all patrols / engagement / enforcement to also be recorded. Priority is to progress EVA which will help to establish where other agencies / partners can assist in reducing the reported behaviours.

Actioned 09 May 2026