Warning over nightclub pickpockets (From Chelmsford Weekly News)

Warning over nightclub pickpockets

7:30am Monday 18th March 2013 in News

A MOTHER has called for clubbers to watch out for pickpockets on nights out in Chelmsford.

Jackie Myers, from Chelmsford, raised concerns about the issue of thieves operating in city centre venues after her 18-year-old daughter Rachel had her iPhone 4 stolen while at the bar in Chicago’s.

The incident happened during a student night at the club during the early hours of February 28 and despite reporting the matter to staff and the police, the phone was not recovered.

After speaking to staff herself, Mrs Myers thinks warnings should be put out to make people aware of the problem.

Mrs Myers said: “I phoned Chicago’s the following day and was told to report the matter to the police. I was also advised pickpocketing is rife in Chelmsford.

“My daughter has been left shaken by the incident and I think people should be warned so it doesn’t happen to their children.”

Essex Police said they have run campaigns telling clubbers to be aware of pickpockets and this is a message they will continue to relay to people enjoying a night out.

A spokesman for the force said: “In any city or town where people visit pubs or clubs to enjoy themselves in the evening, there is always the danger of thieves or pickpockets.

“In Chelmsford city centre, we’ve carried out a poster campaign to warn people, especially women, to be on their guard.

“It is important you know where your belongings are at all times. Hide phones or purses away in secret compartments in bags and keep bags closed.”