POLICE are warning parents and youngsters that they will be taking robust action to stamp out a recent spate of car badge thefts. It is thought the thefts, which are being carried out in the Sutton Bridge area, are being done by youths, who are currently

POLICE are warning parents and youngsters that they will be taking robust action to stamp out a recent spate of car badge thefts.

It is thought the thefts, which are being carried out in the Sutton Bridge area, are being done by youths, who are currently off school.

Over the weekend three Volkswagen cars were targeted in the Sutton Bridge area and overnight on April 6/7, two more Ford badges were stolen from cars in Princess Street and Wrights Lane in Sutton Bridge. A Nissan badge was also stolen from a vehicle in Wrights Lane on the same night.

South Division spokesman James Newall said: "We are warning parents that if there children are caught, they face tough action and a criminal record, which will obviously affect their future prospects.

"This crime causes inconvenience and cost to the owners of the vehicles and officers will not tolerate it.

"Car badges are known to be collectors' items, but the message is simple - it's just not worth it - you will end up in court and you will have a criminal record. This will affect your prospects of going to college, university and getting a decent job.

"Officers will be stepping up patrols in the area and warning youngsters that they face punishment if they commit this crime."

Anyone with information can call Spalding Police Station on: (01775) 722233,

or Crimestoppers anonymously on: 0800 555111.