Second man charged in investigation over multiple car thefts

A man from Southport is the second to be charged in a police investigation over multiple car thefts.

Joshua Johnson of Southport has been charged with two counts of thefts from a motor vehicle, 1 count of theft from a town centre store and 1 count of theft of a bike.

Merseyside Police said: “The public may remember the arrest of a Southport male who was charged with one account of theft from a car on the 26th February. This man is currently on bail until August for another 5 similar offences with an electronic tag monitoring a 7:00PM – 7:00AM a curfew, which is why he has not yet been named.

“Sadly, this weekend there was another spate of thefts from motor vehicles across Southport. Investigations have taken place and a second male, Joshua Johnson of Royal Terrace in Southport has subsequently been arrested and charged with two counts of thefts from a motor vehicle, 1 count of theft from a town centre store and 1 count of theft of a bike, which took place in Bootle.

“Investigations continue into the other thefts from cars and we expect further arrests to be made soon.

“These incidents show how prevalent this type of crime can be. Drivers are reminded to always double check that they have locked cars and vans at night, and always remove any items of value. Never leave wallets, bank cards, handbags or anything of value in your vehicle when it is parked up.

“Owners of high value/high performance cars are advised to take extra measures to ensure the security of their cars and especially to keep keyless ignition fobs away from doors and windows and in a secure tin or ‘Faraday pouch'”.