Hitting the crooks in the pocket

Taking back what’s been taken

People who fund their lifestyles through the proceeds of crime are to be targeted in a new Lothian and Borders Police intelligence gathering campaign.

Made from Crime is the first Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) initiative of its kind in Scotland, and has the backing of the Scottish Government, and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

It is designed to make full use of the POCA, specific legislation that allows officers to seize assets that have been purchased through criminal activity.

For the first time, people will be able to report their concerns online, anonymously if they wish, using Facebook to link directly to the Crimestoppers website.

Assistant Chief Constable Ian Livingstone said: “We know there are people living beyond their means on the proceeds of crime, be it through the purchase of flash cars, designer clothes or expensive jewellery, and that communities are suffering from the side effects of drug-dealing, violence and other crimes.

“I personally appeal to local communities who have any information to come forward immediately, either to Crimestoppers or to Lothian and Borders Police.”

Kate Jackson from Crimestoppers said: “Crimestoppers is not interested in who you are, it’s what you know.

“In over 23 years, we’ve never broken our promise of anonymity so you needn’t fear passing information to us.”

Need to know

Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org