Christmas card has sinister warning for criminals

Dec 18 2009 By Rupert Basham

Christmas cards landing on the doormats of criminals and troublemakers

Police have sent Christmas cards to known Surrey villains and troublemakers, warning them 'Santa knows where you live - and so do we'.

The cards have been posted to more than 100 people regularly involved in crime or anti-social behaviour, and cards and posters have been sent to alcohol vendors, reminded them of the consequences if they sell booze to under 18s or those who are already drunk.

Assistant chief constable Ian Dyson, said: "These cards and posters are not just a gimmick – they have a serious message. People have a choice of how they behave and licensees have a choice about how they conduct their business.

"Everyone should be able to enjoy themselves over Christmas but the festivities are no excuse for bad behaviour. Lots of people will be getting together to celebrate and our aim is to ensure theses celebrations are not ruined by a minority who take it too far.

"Anyone thinking about committing acts of anti-social behaviour should be aware that we are looking out for them."

A series of 'We're Watching' posters are going up in town centres across Surrey, and police will be stepping up patrols with trading standards officers, to catch culprits but also to spot fake ID being used to get into pubs and clubs.

And licensees have been reminded that if they are caught flouting laws regarding the sale of alcohol, they could be fined £5,000, prosecuted, and may lose their licence.