Vandalism in Lord's Walk Published Oct. 29, 2009 By Col Jay Silveria 48th Fighter Wing commander RAF LAKENHEATH, England -- COMPLAINT I am writing about a very troubling incident that happened recently in the Lord's Walk area of housing. Several vehicles in the vicinity were vandalized, including my neighbors in Elm Walk, and some of the damage was to very valuable vehicles. The local constabulary was called, and my neighbors were assured that an officer would be dispatched to the scene. The officer never arrived, and a follow-up phone call today revealed that no officer would be dispatched. This means that there will be no police reports generated, and that these folks may not be able to file insurance claims for damage. The problem, it seems, is that no authorities want to be responsible for our area. The Security Forces refer us to the Constabulary, who refer us to the Ministry of Defence, who refer us to some other black hole. I personally witnessed this fiasco a few months back when I tried to find an animal control officer to pick up a stray dog in the neighborhood. It took nearly four hours before someone could be tracked down. We have also had break ins and car thefts in the area as well with one set of thieves being so bold as to drive a tow truck into another neighbor's driveway and attempt to haul away her husband's brand new Mustang. It seems as if we are left out on our own here, though we are right next to the base. We would like to know what the local laws are that cover us for a neighborhood watch-type organization, as the rules are a bit confusing and even contradictory here. Or perhaps a greater police presence to help deter would-be thieves. RESPONSE Thank you for bringing this important matter to my attention. The safety and well-being of our Liberty Wing family is a paramount concern to me and all leaders on this installation. We enjoy a great working relationship with the local police and have contacted both the Ministry of Defence Police (MDP) and the Suffolk Constabulary concerning this Action Line. Please let me assure you that both local agencies share our concern for your safety and will respond under a prioritized response plan used by all emergency services. The crucial piece of this issue is that our Security Forces do not have jurisdiction to respond off base, including Lords Walk. To bridge the gap, they met with the MDP Community Liaison Officer (CLO) who works closely with Security Forces. He assured us that he does have jurisdiction and will respond when available to all nonemergency calls; however, his position is not manned for 24 hour coverage. Our main 24 hour MDP force does have 24 hour coverage and augments Suffolk Constabulary when an immediate emergency response is required. The emergency number for off base residents is 999. Suffolk Constabulary has primary jurisdiction of the surrounding area outside the base perimeter and responds to all emergency complaints. Non-emergency neighborhood complaints will normally be handled by the Police Community Support Officer (PCSO), who's position was established to combat the issues as you described. The PCSO rides patrol with a Suffolk Constabulary police unit and has a remit to handle all community issues. Your officer is PCSO # 3160 Terry Joynson who is assigned to the Brandon Police Station, 6 High Street, Brandon Suffolk, IP27 0AQ. He patrols the areas of Eriswell, Lakenheath, RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall. He can respond to homes and discuss specific issues while ensuring appropriate police action is taken. You can request a nonemergency off base response at 01284-774100. PCSO Joynson can also assist in establishing Neighborhood Watch schemes. With a commitment from residents, these programs can be an excellent way to reduce crime. I would encourage residents to consider starting a Neighborhood Watch in concert with Suffolk's "Safer Neighborhoods" program. More information about this program can be found at www.suffolk.police.uk/ . Alternatively, you can email PCSO Joynson directly at terence.joynson@suffolk.pnn.police.uk who would be glad to speak with concerned or interested residents. While crime can't be completely avoided, it is important to mention the best way to deter criminals is to present a hard target. Secure your valuables inside your house or in the trunk of your vehicle and lock all doors. Developing relationships with your neighbors is also a good preventative tactic. Don't ever hesitate to dial 999 (off base) or 911 (on base DSN phone) for emergencies or 01638-52-2333 for non-emergencies. Also, the insurance claims you mention can be accomplished for those affected. If the insurance company requires a police report, the individuals will need to go to the Suffolk Police Desk in Mildenhall to fill out the paperwork. Thank you again for raising this important concern. I trust this information will be all you need to be well on your way towards creating a safe neighborhood. If you again find yourself facing insurmountable challenges or resistance, please contact me or Security Forces personnel again. Your Security Forces Defenders aim to keep this issue on their scope.