£88k given to groups from selling criminals' property (From Bicester Advertiser)

£88k given to groups from selling criminals' property

7:00am Monday 13th August 2012 in News By Oliver Evans, covering Banbury. Call me on 01865 425271

THEY say crime doesn’t pay but good causes in Oxfordshire are benefiting from criminals’ ill-gotten gains.

Thames Valley Police has revealed figures which show it gave £88,109 to local groups from selling criminals’ property.

The Police (Disposal of Property) Regulations 1975 allow forces to sell property “which comes into police possession as a result of crime”.

Nominations are taken from local officers and bosses consider whether it meets priorities set down in the force’s policing plan.During the financial year 2011/12, some 59 organisations benefited from cash across the force area, which covers Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire .

Among them was Witney’s Base 33 Youth Trust, which supports at risk youngsters aged 12 and over.

It said the £1,000 will go towards activities including BMX bike riding, a visit to see musical Billy Elliot in London’s West End and a day out in Bournemouth.

Director Claire Dowan, pictured, said: “Our summer project is an integral aspect of our programme and a real opportunity for young people to be challenged and gain in confidence.

“This funding is a big help and we appreciate the support we have received from Thames Valley Police.”

Youngsters supported by the Carterton Educational Trust have also benefited from the £750 they received from the police fund.

The charity provides cash support to needy youngsters, such as help with course fees or school trips abroad.

Treasurer Tan Marchant said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive the regular donation from the police fund.”

She said the cashis vital to maintain the £10,000 fund, adding: “The small amount of money we have is not building up, with interest rates being what they are.

“If we didn’t get regular donations from people like the police we would have quite a problem.”

Other county good causes which benefited from the fund include Banbury Extreme Wheels Forum, which was given £500 towards work to maintain skate facilities in the town.

Bloxham Youth Club also received £350.

Force spokesman Claire Gourlay said: “There are many charities doing great work, but it is particularly rewarding to be in a position to make a small donation to those charities whose work compliments the aims and values of TVP.”