THAMES Valley Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Barber, has pledged a ‘hostile environment’ to those who seek to commit vehicle crime in Berkshire, as he launches a new strategy to tackle vehicle crime.
The Vehicle Crime Strategy was launched on Monday, May 18, at a tool marking event in Bracknell–with tool marking for tradespeople described as one of the key focuses within the Vehicle Crime Strategy.
Tradespeople are significantly more likely to experience vehicle crime because their tools are seen as high-reward, low-risk targets for thieves.
According to statistics from Wickes, 4 in 10 tradespeople have experienced tool theft across the UK.
Matthew Barber said: “Tool marking is one of the simplest ways tradespeople can protect themselves from tool theft.
“Since March, my office has distributed over 500 SelectaDNA tool marking kits to electricians, plumbers, carpenters and other traders across the Thames Valley, increasing the number of tools marked, making them less desirable to thieves and protecting more tradespeople’s tools and livelihoods.”
The new Vehicle Crime Strategy, set to apply through 2028, lays out five areas of focus: prevention, collaboration, data and intelligence, enforcement, and trust and confidence.
A dedicated focus on prevention through awareness-raising among the general public and industry has been put in place, including the provision of target-hardening advice and physical security materials, as well as opportunities to “design out” vehicle crime at the planning stage.
It would also see increased collaboration with partner organisations, redoubled data recording and analysis, ‘robust’ criminal response, and targeted activity to address over-represented groups in vehicle crime.
Matthew Barber said: “This strategy delivers on the commitments set out within my Police and Crime Plan to drive down vehicle crime across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Milton Keynes.
“Having your vehicle stolen, or something stolen from it, isn’t a trivial crime – it can result in substantial financial loss, emotional stress and, depending on where the theft took place, security and community safety concerns.
“Whilst we have seen a reduction in vehicle crime across Thames Valley, with almost 2000 less incidents of theft from or theft of a motor vehicle in 2025 compared with 2024, there is more to do.
“This strategy places prevention at its core, alongside improved crime recording, closer collaboration with our partners and industry and a robust policing response.
“By working closely with Thames Valley Police and using the full breadth of tools and partnerships available to us, we will ensure that the Thames Valley remains a hostile place to those who seek to commit vehicle crime, protecting those who rely on their vehicles for their daily lives.”
Jason Hogg, Chief Constable for Thames Valley Police, said: “Vehicle crime may appear opportunistic, but its impact on victims is significant, causing disruption, financial loss and a sense of intrusion.
“Although levels of vehicle crime have fallen across the Thames Valley, we recognise the importance of maintaining pressure on those who seek to offend and strengthening our ability to prevent crime before it occurs.
“The priorities of the Police and Crime Commissioner align closely with our operational approach. Together, we will make the Thames Valley an increasingly difficult environment for those intent on criminality, while supporting the individuals and communities we serve.”
A full version of the Vehicle Crime Strategy is available via: thamesvalley-pcc.gov.uk
