PEOPLE are to be sent
text messages telling
them not to walk alone
through Southampton's
parks at night.
Police will use Bluetooth
technology to contact men and
women walking within a 300-
metre radius of the five parks
in a bid to make them stop and
think about their safety.
It comes just two weeks after
a woman was raped in
Palmerston Park as she walked
home from a night out in the
city centre.
The series of messages,
which will be sent at random,
will urge people to walk in
groups, take public transport
or stick to well lit streets if
they have to walk by themselves.
The aim is particularly to
target revellers who are leaving
the city centre late at night who
may be extra vulnerable
because they have been drinking
and deter them from using
the parks as a shortcut.
The 26-year-old woman was
subjected to the ordeal by a
man as she walked through
Palmerston Park between 2am
and 3am.
It was the second rape in just
two months in the park, which
is used as a cutthrough from
Above Bar.
In May a 19-year-old woman
was raped in the same area,
although the
attacks are not
being linked.
Three messages
have
been devised
by officers and
will be sent
from a computer
in a patrol
car parked in
the area.
People with
B l u e t o o t h
e n a b l e d
phones will
then be asked
to accept the
message which
will also urge
them to look
out for their
friends.
So far this
year there
have been a
total of 68
rapes recorded
in the city,
i n c l u d i n g
domestic incidents.
Eighteen of
those attacks,
recorded between January 1
and July 14, have happened in
a public place and three within
city centre parks.
The Bluetooth messages will
be sent out on Friday and
Saturday nights and will cover
anyone walking in Hoglands,
Palmerston, Watts, Andrews
and Houndwell parks.
Detective Chief Inspector
Dick Pearson
said city police
were taking
active measures
to reduce the
number of
rapes occurring
in public places.
"There is a big
concern surrounding
the
number of people
putting
themselves at
risk by a lack of
awareness of
personal safety.
" B l u e t o o t h
messages are
the ideal way to
remind people
after a night out
that they need
to be more
aware of their
surroundings
and take sensible
precautions
on their way
home.
"Most people
have mobile
phones now and
people using the
city pubs and bars are more
likely to read a text message
than take notice of a poster or
leaflet."
For the full story see today's Daily Echo
3:52pm Friday 18th July 2008
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CommentPosted by: Will Itwork, Soton on 9:25am Fri 18 Jul 08
Call me stupid but surely this will only work if the individual has their phone 'Blue Tooth Enabled' therefore if its not they will not get the message. I personally don’t leave my Blue Tooth switched on as it runs down the battery very quickly. Sounds like a complete waste of money. What about a big sign instead!
Call me stupid but surely this will only work if the individual has their phone 'Blue Tooth Enabled' therefore if its not they will not get the message. I personally don’t leave my Blue Tooth switched on as it runs down the battery very quickly. Sounds like a complete waste of money. What about a big sign instead!
Posted by: Sheitma Pance, Soton on 9:26am Fri 18 Jul 08
Wouldn't SIGNS at park entrances be a better and cheaper solution??
Not everyone has a mobile with bluetooth, some people don't have a mobile at all! What if your mobile is switched off? What if the incoming text message distracts your attention from the person that's following you?
Silly idea, waste of money. Signs would be far better.
Wouldn't SIGNS at park entrances be a better and cheaper solution??
Not everyone has a mobile with bluetooth, some people don't have a mobile at all! What if your mobile is switched off? What if the incoming text message distracts your attention from the person that's following you?
Silly idea, waste of money. Signs would be far better.
Posted by: c on 9:28am Fri 18 Jul 08
Would it be to much to ask if some police officers patrol the parks at night in plain clothes? just a thought.
Would it be to much to ask if some police officers patrol the parks at night in plain clothes? just a thought.
Posted by: Soton Resident, Chilworth on 9:40am Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]c[/bold] wrote:
Would it be to much to ask if some police officers patrol the parks at night in plain clothes? just a thought.[/quote] A perfectly sensible idea, but as i've found out from a friend in the job, when they only have a maximum of 5 or 6 deployable officers on duty luxuries such as this simply aren't possible. Too many officers are sat doing desk jobs or on specialist units nowadays, to the detriment of visible and effective policing.
c wrote:
Would it be to much to ask if some police officers patrol the parks at night in plain clothes? just a thought.
A perfectly sensible idea, but as i've found out from a friend in the job, when they only have a maximum of 5 or 6 deployable officers on duty luxuries such as this simply aren't possible. Too many officers are sat doing desk jobs or on specialist units nowadays, to the detriment of visible and effective policing.
Posted by: Denzil, Chilworth on 10:03am Fri 18 Jul 08
Sounds like Southampton O.B being lazy again.
Sounds like Southampton O.B being lazy again.
Posted by: B-Blog on 10:06am Fri 18 Jul 08
Surealy there could be a nocturnal specialiust unit for this? I understand it is not the police that control this but the big hats in the HOP at least have two in each park =] this will also decrease underage drinking ...killing two birds with one stone =] Now theres an idea!
Surealy there could be a nocturnal specialiust unit for this? I understand it is not the police that control this but the big hats in the HOP at least have two in each park =] this will also decrease underage drinking ...killing two birds with one stone =] Now theres an idea!
Posted by: John C. Mugger on 10:10am Fri 18 Jul 08
This is brilliant! Now, when everyone's checking these texts, I'll be able to see easily who has got mobile phones worth stealing, and who hasn't! Thanks, Plod!
This is brilliant! Now, when everyone's checking these texts, I'll be able to see easily who has got mobile phones worth stealing, and who hasn't! Thanks, Plod!
Posted by: B-Blog...my bad on 10:11am Fri 18 Jul 08
Before i get blasted i spelt surely wrong =S
Before i get blasted i spelt surely wrong =S
Posted by: Patron, Soton on 10:16am Fri 18 Jul 08
Sounds a good idea so long as its used with other methods like patrols.
Sounds a good idea so long as its used with other methods like patrols.
Posted by: nob, Southampton on 10:19am Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Will Itwork[/bold] wrote:
Call me stupid but surely this will only work if the individual has their phone 'Blue Tooth Enabled' therefore if its not they will not get the message. I personally don’t leave my Blue Tooth switched on as it runs down the battery very quickly. Sounds like a complete waste of money. What about a big sign instead! [/quote] Ok your stupid!
every decent phone has bluetooth dont be so tight and just charge it more if it runs it down that much-which i dont think it dose anyway.
Will Itwork wrote:
Call me stupid but surely this will only work if the individual has their phone 'Blue Tooth Enabled' therefore if its not they will not get the message. I personally don’t leave my Blue Tooth switched on as it runs down the battery very quickly. Sounds like a complete waste of money. What about a big sign instead!
Ok your stupid!
every decent phone has bluetooth dont be so tight and just charge it more if it runs it down that much-which i dont think it dose anyway.
Posted by: George on 10:23am Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]nob[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Will Itwork[/bold] wrote:
Call me stupid but surely this will only work if the individual has their phone 'Blue Tooth Enabled' therefore if its not they will not get the message. I personally don’t leave my Blue Tooth switched on as it runs down the battery very quickly. Sounds like a complete waste of money. What about a big sign instead! [/quote] Ok your stupid!
every decent phone has bluetooth dont be so tight and just charge it more if it runs it down that much-which i dont think it dose anyway. [/quote] So every decent phone has bluetooth? Well, I'm not buying that, but assume you're right for a second: not everyone has a decent phone, and not everyone who has got bluetooth actually switches it on.
Now who's stupid and a nob? Well, go on then, call me names and stamp your feet, like everyone else exactly like you feels it necessary to do whenever someone dares talk back to you. Yawn, predictable, boring. Move along now
nob wrote:
Will Itwork wrote:
Call me stupid but surely this will only work if the individual has their phone 'Blue Tooth Enabled' therefore if its not they will not get the message. I personally don’t leave my Blue Tooth switched on as it runs down the battery very quickly. Sounds like a complete waste of money. What about a big sign instead!
Ok your stupid!
every decent phone has bluetooth dont be so tight and just charge it more if it runs it down that much-which i dont think it dose anyway.
So every decent phone has bluetooth? Well, I'm not buying that, but assume you're right for a second: not everyone has a decent phone, and not everyone who has got bluetooth actually switches it on.
Now who's stupid and a nob? Well, go on then, call me names and stamp your feet, like everyone else exactly like you feels it necessary to do whenever someone dares talk back to you. Yawn, predictable, boring. Move along now
Posted by: J on 10:31am Fri 18 Jul 08
What about a thing called common sense or have we really sank that low that we need this service?
What about a thing called common sense or have we really sank that low that we need this service?
Posted by: George on 10:34am Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]J[/bold] wrote:
What about a thing called common sense or have we really sank that low that we need this service?[/quote] Things really have sunk this low. That's why bags of nuts have warnings on saying "may contain nuts". That's why there's a warning inside some Buick owners manuals saying "not to be taken internally"
If this scheme takes off, it's only a matter of time before someone gets attacked, and manages to sue the police for failing to text them and warn them of the danger
J wrote:
What about a thing called common sense or have we really sank that low that we need this service?
Things really have sunk this low. That's why bags of nuts have warnings on saying "may contain nuts". That's why there's a warning inside some Buick owners manuals saying "not to be taken internally"
If this scheme takes off, it's only a matter of time before someone gets attacked, and manages to sue the police for failing to text them and warn them of the danger
Posted by: Retd Ex Pol West End, West End on 10:42am Fri 18 Jul 08
The academics in power at the Home Office and in the higher echelons of the police do not see the policeman on beat patrol as being affective. When will this erosion of no visual beat-men cease? Let's see more men on the beat and on patrol.New York brought their crime figures down by extra patrols and zero tolerance.
The academics in power at the Home Office and in the higher echelons of the police do not see the policeman on beat patrol as being affective. When will this erosion of no visual beat-men cease? Let's see more men on the beat and on patrol.New York brought their crime figures down by extra patrols and zero tolerance.
Posted by: E, Soton on 10:46am Fri 18 Jul 08
Surely it's common sense that women shouldn't walk through parks at that time of night on their own?
Surely it's common sense that women shouldn't walk through parks at that time of night on their own?
Posted by: Get it right, Hythe on 10:52am Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]B-Blog...my bad[/bold] wrote:
Before i get blasted i spelt surely wrong =S[/quote] I think I should point out that you spelt "specialist" wrongly too - and you missed an apostrophe out of "there's".
(We won't say anything about the spurious "=]" that you seem to find it necessary to insert.)
B-Blog...my bad wrote:
Before i get blasted i spelt surely wrong =S
I think I should point out that you spelt "specialist" wrongly too - and you missed an apostrophe out of "there's".
(We won't say anything about the spurious "=]" that you seem to find it necessary to insert.)
Posted by: Andy, In My Pants on 10:53am Fri 18 Jul 08
What a ridiculous idea - it will never work.
I for one will ignore any warnings, though chances are I will not have my phone on me in the first place... I never carry any personal posessions which may lead to my identification should I drop them when I am out roaming the parks at night in my flasher-mac.
Hands free is definately not an option for this flashing pervert...
What a ridiculous idea - it will never work.
I for one will ignore any warnings, though chances are I will not have my phone on me in the first place... I never carry any personal posessions which may lead to my identification should I drop them when I am out roaming the parks at night in my flasher-mac.
Hands free is definately not an option for this flashing pervert...
Posted by: c on 10:54am Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]E[/bold] wrote:
Surely it's common sense that women shouldn't walk through parks at that time of night on their own?[/quote] Well i wouldn't walk through the parks at night, but thats not the point, we should be able to walk where we like without the fear of being raped or mugged, i don't feel safe walking anywhere at night.
E wrote:
Surely it's common sense that women shouldn't walk through parks at that time of night on their own?
Well i wouldn't walk through the parks at night, but thats not the point, we should be able to walk where we like without the fear of being raped or mugged, i don't feel safe walking anywhere at night.
Posted by: Bobby, Soton on 11:32am Fri 18 Jul 08
I used to leave my Bluetooth on but picked up a virus one day by doing so and, as a result no longer do so.
A virus you say?!!? Yes, it's called Caribe (spelling) and it's transmitted from phone to phone using Bluetooth technology. It happened to me so it could happen to you.
Be aware, be very aware!
I used to leave my Bluetooth on but picked up a virus one day by doing so and, as a result no longer do so.
A virus you say?!!? Yes, it's called Caribe (spelling) and it's transmitted from phone to phone using Bluetooth technology. It happened to me so it could happen to you.
Be aware, be very aware!
Posted by: Paramjit Bahia, Southampton on 11:32am Fri 18 Jul 08
Cops is flashy cars are far less effective than Bobbies on the beat. Experiments by Devon and Cornwall Constabulary proved that many years ago, and as Ex Police guy has stated it has worked in New York.
Sadly ordinary cops have very little say in the policing, senior butterflies are more interested in accountancy and licking the back side of politician in power. To keep them happy they have encouraged organisations within the police based upon race and religion and have effectively done away with independence and neutrality of policing.
Police is paid to protect people. But all they are doing is creating official no go areas. Toady they are advising not to walk through the parks tomorrow it will be the High Street and day after our own roads.
[bold]If this New Labour Government can't provide proper policing then it should at least be honest and say so.[/bold]
Cops is flashy cars are far less effective than Bobbies on the beat. Experiments by Devon and Cornwall Constabulary proved that many years ago, and as Ex Police guy has stated it has worked in New York.
Sadly ordinary cops have very little say in the policing, senior butterflies are more interested in accountancy and licking the back side of politician in power. To keep them happy they have encouraged organisations within the police based upon race and religion and have effectively done away with independence and neutrality of policing.
Police is paid to protect people. But all they are doing is creating official no go areas. Toady they are advising not to walk through the parks tomorrow it will be the High Street and day after our own roads.
If this New Labour Government can't provide proper policing then it should at least be honest and say so. Posted by: bingolover, Not in the Park on 11:47am Fri 18 Jul 08
I would never get my phone out my bag if I was walking alone at night. Last I heard, the police were advising people not to have mobiles on view in case it made you a target for muggers....
The only thing that will solve this problem to any degree is to have a strong police presence in parks at night. Advising druunk women not to take short cuts clearly isn't working and it's a shame that many more people will be attacked before anything useful is done. This is just more spin so they get to make it look like they're doing something to tackle the problem, when actually they're doing nothing at all.
I would never get my phone out my bag if I was walking alone at night. Last I heard, the police were advising people not to have mobiles on view in case it made you a target for muggers....
The only thing that will solve this problem to any degree is to have a strong police presence in parks at night. Advising druunk women not to take short cuts clearly isn't working and it's a shame that many more people will be attacked before anything useful is done. This is just more spin so they get to make it look like they're doing something to tackle the problem, when actually they're doing nothing at all.
Posted by: the voice of reason, in the park on 11:48am Fri 18 Jul 08
Wait for the next story - girl attacked whilst reading long text message in park or Stalker lured girl using text messages. Why not send texts to drivers on the M3 - 'Watch out you may get killed today'
Wait for the next story - girl attacked whilst reading long text message in park or Stalker lured girl using text messages. Why not send texts to drivers on the M3 - 'Watch out you may get killed today'
Posted by: Concerned Resident, Southampton on 12:07pm Fri 18 Jul 08
The parks in Southampton are an under-used resource. In the Winter they are out of use between 4pm and 7am and in the Summer they are out of use between 9pm and 6am. I should like the City Council to justify parks' expenditure.
The parks in Southampton are an under-used resource. In the Winter they are out of use between 4pm and 7am and in the Summer they are out of use between 9pm and 6am. I should like the City Council to justify parks' expenditure.
Posted by: JP, Victoria on 12:08pm Fri 18 Jul 08
Or...Just lock the gates from dusk til dawn. No blue tooth needed then or patrols in there. Anyone found in the parks after dark will then be classified as a psycho - collect them all up - commit them - start to clean up society.
Or...Just lock the gates from dusk til dawn. No blue tooth needed then or patrols in there. Anyone found in the parks after dark will then be classified as a psycho - collect them all up - commit them - start to clean up society.
Posted by: Darren English, Southampton on 12:11pm Fri 18 Jul 08
I have seen police cars driving through the parks during the day, whats to say they couldn't do it at night. I have seen police cars patrolling southampton common at night with search lights. This could be done in the parks??
I have seen police cars driving through the parks during the day, whats to say they couldn't do it at night. I have seen police cars patrolling southampton common at night with search lights. This could be done in the parks??
Posted by: c on 12:54pm Fri 18 Jul 08
Could be done and should be, why cant they have c c t v as well?
Could be done and should be, why cant they have c c t v as well?
Posted by: Pc Plod, Plodland on 1:00pm Fri 18 Jul 08
I've been a copper for 30 years and it's the worst i've ever seen!
I've been a copper for 30 years and it's the worst i've ever seen!
Posted by: Di H, Southampton on 1:10pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Concerned Resident[/bold] wrote:
The parks in Southampton are an under-used resource. In the Winter they are out of use between 4pm and 7am and in the Summer they are out of use between 9pm and 6am. I should like the City Council to justify parks' expenditure. [/quote] This is not true - Many people use the parks to walk though to and from work, and youngsters use it to meet up. What parks are you talking about?
Concerned Resident wrote:
The parks in Southampton are an under-used resource. In the Winter they are out of use between 4pm and 7am and in the Summer they are out of use between 9pm and 6am. I should like the City Council to justify parks' expenditure.
This is not true - Many people use the parks to walk though to and from work, and youngsters use it to meet up. What parks are you talking about?
Posted by: Finlay, Des Moines, Iowa on 1:16pm Fri 18 Jul 08
It is common knowledge that rapists plan their attacks and often position themselves in such a way as to not be detected and with their Blue Tooth on and the ability to type in any old nonsense my guess is they will type something along the lines of "Danger! Dont walk through that park as it is not safe. Use the one where I am waiting instead as this is deemed safe - signed Captain Dollop - Head of Cloud Cuckoo Land Police".
Maybe if you used the technology another way you can send messages to the rapists saying "Dont rape or harm people in the park - Please"
Look Captain Joke - Stop thinking as it is clear you have only sufficient grey matter to enable you to feed yourself. Go and talk with some grown ups as they have more mature ideas which given time you may learn from them.
Get a dollop of plod out in every park hey! why not two and they can practice arresting each other - I can stand at the top of Palmerston park and see the docks so your very expensive cameras can as well.
You are like a bunch of kids squawking about how good their football is but it turns out they have never actually played the game.
It is common knowledge that rapists plan their attacks and often position themselves in such a way as to not be detected and with their Blue Tooth on and the ability to type in any old nonsense my guess is they will type something along the lines of "Danger! Dont walk through that park as it is not safe. Use the one where I am waiting instead as this is deemed safe - signed Captain Dollop - Head of Cloud Cuckoo Land Police".
Maybe if you used the technology another way you can send messages to the rapists saying "Dont rape or harm people in the park - Please"
Look Captain Joke - Stop thinking as it is clear you have only sufficient grey matter to enable you to feed yourself. Go and talk with some grown ups as they have more mature ideas which given time you may learn from them.
Get a dollop of plod out in every park hey! why not two and they can practice arresting each other - I can stand at the top of Palmerston park and see the docks so your very expensive cameras can as well.
You are like a bunch of kids squawking about how good their football is but it turns out they have never actually played the game.
Posted by: Ian, Winchester on 1:19pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]c[/bold] wrote:
Could be done and should be, why cant they have c c t v as well?[/quote] No shoplifters in the parks!
c wrote:
Could be done and should be, why cant they have c c t v as well?
No shoplifters in the parks!
Posted by: Bambi on 1:22pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote]It is common knowledge that rapists plan their attacks[/quote]
It is? I beg to differ. Many's the opportunist rapist, I think you'll find
It is common knowledge that rapists plan their attacks
It is? I beg to differ. Many's the opportunist rapist, I think you'll find
Posted by: Christoff on 1:38pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]E[/bold] wrote:
Surely it's common sense that women shouldn't walk through parks at that time of night on their own?[/quote] you would think so but no, they still do it despite the number of rape stories you read on here
E wrote:
Surely it's common sense that women shouldn't walk through parks at that time of night on their own?
you would think so but no, they still do it despite the number of rape stories you read on here
Posted by: steve, central on 1:40pm Fri 18 Jul 08
So your looking at your mobile and not around you and so allowing the attacker to sneak up . Great why not give people bags to put over their heads so they blindly walk through the parks not knowing who is behind them. Complete waste of time and money.
So your looking at your mobile and not around you and so allowing the attacker to sneak up . Great why not give people bags to put over their heads so they blindly walk through the parks not knowing who is behind them. Complete waste of time and money.
Posted by: duh, here on 1:48pm Fri 18 Jul 08
Surely if people that stupid are walking through the parks alone at night then a text message is not going to change their mind! Maybe they could also send a text to the rapists and ask them to think twice before attacking[bold]bold[/bold]
Surely if people that stupid are walking through the parks alone at night then a text message is not going to change their mind! Maybe they could also send a text to the rapists and ask them to think twice before attacking
Posted by: Dave, Beastleigh on 2:04pm Fri 18 Jul 08
Paramjit Bahia uttered these words
"If this New Labour Government can't provide proper policing then it should at least be honest and say so."
Fatal flaw being mentioning "New Labour" and "honest" in the same sentence. Oh Adam Boulton you sock it to her
Paramjit Bahia uttered these words
"If this New Labour Government can't provide proper policing then it should at least be honest and say so."
Fatal flaw being mentioning "New Labour" and "honest" in the same sentence. Oh Adam Boulton you sock it to her
Posted by: Sam, CITY on 2:06pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Soton Resident[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]c[/bold] wrote:
Would it be to much to ask if some police officers patrol the parks at night in plain clothes? just a thought.[/quote] A perfectly sensible idea, but as i've found out from a friend in the job, when they only have a maximum of 5 or 6 deployable officers on duty luxuries such as this simply aren't possible. Too many officers are sat doing desk jobs or on specialist units nowadays, to the detriment of visible and effective policing. [/quote] What about the police officers sat in the parked patrol car – couldn't they get out and walk the parks?
Soton Resident wrote:
c wrote:
Would it be to much to ask if some police officers patrol the parks at night in plain clothes? just a thought.
A perfectly sensible idea, but as i've found out from a friend in the job, when they only have a maximum of 5 or 6 deployable officers on duty luxuries such as this simply aren't possible. Too many officers are sat doing desk jobs or on specialist units nowadays, to the detriment of visible and effective policing.
What about the police officers sat in the parked patrol car – couldn't they get out and walk the parks?
Posted by: Me, soton on 2:08pm Fri 18 Jul 08
I really do wonder why these silly mares walk through parks and along the roads on their own in the early hours of the morning anyway?
Don't get me wrong, I don't wish rape or anything like that on people, but for goodness sake....how many more times does this need to happen before they get it through their thick and over made-up heads....it's not safe these days so don't do it...stop thinking that it will never happen to you. Wasn't there an old saying, safety in numbers!!!!!!!!
I really do wonder why these silly mares walk through parks and along the roads on their own in the early hours of the morning anyway?
Don't get me wrong, I don't wish rape or anything like that on people, but for goodness sake....how many more times does this need to happen before they get it through their thick and over made-up heads....it's not safe these days so don't do it...stop thinking that it will never happen to you. Wasn't there an old saying, safety in numbers!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Charlie, Maybush on 2:09pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]JP[/bold] wrote:
Or...Just lock the gates from dusk til dawn. No blue tooth needed then or patrols in there. Anyone found in the parks after dark will then be classified as a psycho - collect them all up - commit them - start to clean up society.[/quote] moron
JP wrote:
Or...Just lock the gates from dusk til dawn. No blue tooth needed then or patrols in there. Anyone found in the parks after dark will then be classified as a psycho - collect them all up - commit them - start to clean up society.
moron
Posted by: Emma, Southampton on 2:09pm Fri 18 Jul 08
warnings via text messages are more likely to get someone's attention and make them think about what they're doing. Yes, there's a need for police patrols and if you're out on a Friday and Saturday night you'll see them. If blue tooth text messages stop just one person being attacked it will be worth it.
As for receiving messages as they're walking home... text messages can be sent at more than one time... i'm guessing most people will be sat happily in the pub when they receive the message.
warnings via text messages are more likely to get someone's attention and make them think about what they're doing. Yes, there's a need for police patrols and if you're out on a Friday and Saturday night you'll see them. If blue tooth text messages stop just one person being attacked it will be worth it.
As for receiving messages as they're walking home... text messages can be sent at more than one time... i'm guessing most people will be sat happily in the pub when they receive the message.
Posted by: Persil Pete, Portswood on 2:11pm Fri 18 Jul 08
How about putting up a giant screen to display a warning message? It could also be used during the day to broadcast the Olympic games – wouldn't that be good for the city?
How about putting up a giant screen to display a warning message? It could also be used during the day to broadcast the Olympic games – wouldn't that be good for the city?
Posted by: Paramjit Bahia, Southampton on 2:12pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Dave[/bold] wrote:
Paramjit Bahia uttered these words "If this New Labour Government can't provide proper policing then it should at least be honest and say so." Fatal flaw being mentioning "New Labour" and "honest" in the same sentence. Oh Adam Boulton you sock it to her[/quote] Dave you are right. My apology for mistake of expecting honesty from New Labour.
Dave wrote:
Paramjit Bahia uttered these words "If this New Labour Government can't provide proper policing then it should at least be honest and say so." Fatal flaw being mentioning "New Labour" and "honest" in the same sentence. Oh Adam Boulton you sock it to her
Dave you are right. My apology for mistake of expecting honesty from New Labour.
Posted by: City Builder, In the Park on 2:14pm Fri 18 Jul 08
Why not build on the parks thus reducing the opportunity for these sick minded people. It will also 'help' the building industry and encorage more firms to come to Southampton.
Why not build on the parks thus reducing the opportunity for these sick minded people. It will also 'help' the building industry and encorage more firms to come to Southampton.
Posted by: Davie, Southampton on 2:17pm Fri 18 Jul 08
What about the people driving their cars in the vicinity, wont a text message put them off?
Come to think of it is this another way for the Police to exploit the drivers pockets?
Come on, everyone form an orderly que to attack me :0)
What about the people driving their cars in the vicinity, wont a text message put them off?
Come to think of it is this another way for the Police to exploit the drivers pockets?
Come on, everyone form an orderly que to attack me :0)
Posted by: Brenda, Romsey on 2:18pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Get it right[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]B-Blog...my bad[/bold] wrote:
Before i get blasted i spelt surely wrong =S[/quote] I think I should point out that you spelt "specialist" wrongly too - and you missed an apostrophe out of "there's".
(We won't say anything about the spurious "=]" that you seem to find it necessary to insert.)[/quote] ...and your full point should be after the close bracket.
Get it right wrote:
B-Blog...my bad wrote:
Before i get blasted i spelt surely wrong =S
I think I should point out that you spelt "specialist" wrongly too - and you missed an apostrophe out of "there's".
(We won't say anything about the spurious "=]" that you seem to find it necessary to insert.)
...and your full point should be after the close bracket.
Posted by: SCC fat cat, Southampton on 2:20pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]City Builder[/bold] wrote:
Why not build on the parks thus reducing the opportunity for these sick minded people. It will also 'help' the building industry and encorage more firms to come to Southampton.[/quote] Yes yes lets build some more apartment blocks. We need this in our city.
City Builder wrote:
Why not build on the parks thus reducing the opportunity for these sick minded people. It will also 'help' the building industry and encorage more firms to come to Southampton.
Yes yes lets build some more apartment blocks. We need this in our city.
Posted by: Lets Get Physical on 2:48pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Davie[/bold] wrote:
What about the people driving their cars in the vicinity, wont a text message put them off? Come to think of it is this another way for the Police to exploit the drivers pockets? Come on, everyone form an orderly que to attack me :0)[/quote] Can you tell me where you are?
I'd like to join the queue to attack you...
Davie wrote:
What about the people driving their cars in the vicinity, wont a text message put them off? Come to think of it is this another way for the Police to exploit the drivers pockets? Come on, everyone form an orderly que to attack me :0)
Can you tell me where you are?
I'd like to join the queue to attack you...
Posted by: Mad Max, the prairies on 2:49pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Sam[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Soton Resident[/bold] wrote: [quote][bold]c[/bold] wrote: Would it be to much to ask if some police officers patrol the parks at night in plain clothes? just a thought.[/quote] A perfectly sensible idea, but as i've found out from a friend in the job, when they only have a maximum of 5 or 6 deployable officers on duty luxuries such as this simply aren't possible. Too many officers are sat doing desk jobs or on specialist units nowadays, to the detriment of visible and effective policing. [/quote] What about the police officers sat in the parked patrol car – couldn't they get out and walk the parks?[/quote] if they get out of the patrol car they won't be able to stop motorist doing 35 in a 30 zone.... and think of all the paperwork if they catch a mugger / rapist....
Sam wrote:
Soton Resident wrote: c wrote: Would it be to much to ask if some police officers patrol the parks at night in plain clothes? just a thought.
A perfectly sensible idea, but as i've found out from a friend in the job, when they only have a maximum of 5 or 6 deployable officers on duty luxuries such as this simply aren't possible. Too many officers are sat doing desk jobs or on specialist units nowadays, to the detriment of visible and effective policing.
What about the police officers sat in the parked patrol car – couldn't they get out and walk the parks?
if they get out of the patrol car they won't be able to stop motorist doing 35 in a 30 zone.... and think of all the paperwork if they catch a mugger / rapist....
Posted by: Skeptik, soton on 2:49pm Fri 18 Jul 08
Paramjit is right about senior officers - the uniformed branch of NuLab. I would also say that taking back control of "no go areas" is difficult, better not to let it get that far. I am also in agreement with him on police on the ground. I don't accept this manpower argument, there are plenty of officers on revenue earning "crimes". As a soldier I had to use resources where they were most effective/needed and deal with the lesser problems later, this spreading manpower out to achieve targets in all areas is a nonsense.
Paramjit is right about senior officers - the uniformed branch of NuLab. I would also say that taking back control of "no go areas" is difficult, better not to let it get that far. I am also in agreement with him on police on the ground. I don't accept this manpower argument, there are plenty of officers on revenue earning "crimes". As a soldier I had to use resources where they were most effective/needed and deal with the lesser problems later, this spreading manpower out to achieve targets in all areas is a nonsense.
Posted by: Maybe on 2:56pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]duh[/bold] wrote:
Surely if people that stupid are walking through the parks alone at night then a text message is not going to change their mind! Maybe they could also send a text to the rapists and ask them to think twice before attacking[bold]bold[/bold] [/quote] They should have those signs that flash up a message on the entrances to the parks whenever people approach.... like the ones for motorists when they exceed 30mph to say they're in a 30mph limit? Maybe?
They could even have light sensors so they come on in bad light?
Just a thought...
duh wrote:
Surely if people that stupid are walking through the parks alone at night then a text message is not going to change their mind! Maybe they could also send a text to the rapists and ask them to think twice before attacking
They should have those signs that flash up a message on the entrances to the parks whenever people approach.... like the ones for motorists when they exceed 30mph to say they're in a 30mph limit? Maybe?
They could even have light sensors so they come on in bad light?
Just a thought...
Posted by: Serious Steve on 3:02pm Fri 18 Jul 08
lol @ the message
"Are you walking home from a night out? Don't walk through the parks alone."
Are they trying to warn people or give them heart attacks?
Imagine getting this on a friday night at 11.30pm when you're about to walk home alone via a park.....
lol @ the message
"Are you walking home from a night out? Don't walk through the parks alone."
Are they trying to warn people or give them heart attacks?
Imagine getting this on a friday night at 11.30pm when you're about to walk home alone via a park.....
Posted by: On the job, woolston on 3:29pm Fri 18 Jul 08
CCTV and good lighting would help.
The City Council has only invested money into developing the CCTV network to cover the shopping centres and road networks.
If they actually used the CCTV network to protect people in the way in was designed to be used it might actually help stop some of these problems.
CCTV and good lighting would help.
The City Council has only invested money into developing the CCTV network to cover the shopping centres and road networks.
If they actually used the CCTV network to protect people in the way in was designed to be used it might actually help stop some of these problems.
Posted by: Squashy McSquash, Hythe on 3:30pm Fri 18 Jul 08
The title of this article says the message to keep away from the park at night is directed only at women, however, the body of the article states the warning applies to both women and men.
Maybe the title should say "Text message to keep Muslims away from city parks at night" then people would be like "I'm gonna read that article because it sounds like there is some racist agenda going on and it shouldn't ought to be allowed.", but then they would be all disappointed because it wasn't even racist and the message applied to everyone regardless of race/sex/age/etc.
And another thing...
Why are they sending this message to law abiding folks, I don't know why they don't just say in the message "Yo fools don't you be coming up in this park to be causing no trouble or cops are gonna totally beat yo' **** down". That is the only language troublemakers understand. If I was a troublemaker and I got a message on my phone saying I was gonna get beat down I sure would think twice about causing any trouble in the first place. You know it makes sense.
Peace.
The title of this article says the message to keep away from the park at night is directed only at women, however, the body of the article states the warning applies to both women and men.
Maybe the title should say "Text message to keep Muslims away from city parks at night" then people would be like "I'm gonna read that article because it sounds like there is some racist agenda going on and it shouldn't ought to be allowed.", but then they would be all disappointed because it wasn't even racist and the message applied to everyone regardless of race/sex/age/etc.
And another thing...
Why are they sending this message to law abiding folks, I don't know why they don't just say in the message "Yo fools don't you be coming up in this park to be causing no trouble or cops are gonna totally beat yo' **** down". That is the only language troublemakers understand. If I was a troublemaker and I got a message on my phone saying I was gonna get beat down I sure would think twice about causing any trouble in the first place. You know it makes sense.
Peace.
Posted by: Squashy McSquash, Hythe on 3:34pm Fri 18 Jul 08
Yeah and I missed a question mark out on my previous message so here it is:
?
Please insert it in the relevant place.
Thanks
Yeah and I missed a question mark out on my previous message so here it is:
?
Please insert it in the relevant place.
Thanks
Posted by: B-Blog....... Get a life on 3:48pm Fri 18 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Get it right[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]B-Blog...my bad[/bold] wrote: Before i get blasted i spelt surely wrong =S[/quote] I think I should point out that you spelt "specialist" wrongly too - and you missed an apostrophe out of "there's". (We won't say anything about the spurious "=]" that you seem to find it necessary to insert.)[/quote] Yes well maybe thats called a TYPO and spurious .....please! I feel that emtoicoms enhance what i'm thinking and =S means apologetic or slightly concerned so ya know! besides which there was no need to reply in that manner when i'd obviously taken steps to correct my spelling, and reading through other articles its the saddos like you which are putting down everybody else when we are trying to discuss a topic...
Yes women should use common sense about when is the relevant time to walk through a park....but they dont because they get drunk.....which leads back to the topic of alcohol i do believe???
Get it right wrote:
B-Blog...my bad wrote: Before i get blasted i spelt surely wrong =S
I think I should point out that you spelt "specialist" wrongly too - and you missed an apostrophe out of "there's". (We won't say anything about the spurious "=]" that you seem to find it necessary to insert.)
Yes well maybe thats called a TYPO and spurious .....please! I feel that emtoicoms enhance what i'm thinking and =S means apologetic or slightly concerned so ya know! besides which there was no need to reply in that manner when i'd obviously taken steps to correct my spelling, and reading through other articles its the saddos like you which are putting down everybody else when we are trying to discuss a topic...
Yes women should use common sense about when is the relevant time to walk through a park....but they dont because they get drunk.....which leads back to the topic of alcohol i do believe???
Posted by: Iain, Lordshill on 3:59pm Fri 18 Jul 08
On a slightly less relevant note, I notice that the workbar on my PC shortens the headline of this article to "Text Message to Keep Women Away."
Sadly, I already seem to know too many of these...
On a slightly less relevant note, I notice that the workbar on my PC shortens the headline of this article to "Text Message to Keep Women Away."
Sadly, I already seem to know too many of these...
Posted by: King Mush, Woolston on 4:00pm Fri 18 Jul 08
lol @ suggestions of CCTV coverage in the parks.
Just go for a walk - IN THE DAYTIME- and look all around you.
What do you see? Yes trees, foliage, bushes etc. Plenty of secluded areas to attack any stupid boozed up bird as she staggers past at 3am.
One cannot make provision for this kind of behaviour and lack of care or compassion for the girl's pals who allowed her to wander off.
Numpties one and all
lol @ suggestions of CCTV coverage in the parks.
Just go for a walk - IN THE DAYTIME- and look all around you.
What do you see? Yes trees, foliage, bushes etc. Plenty of secluded areas to attack any stupid boozed up bird as she staggers past at 3am.
One cannot make provision for this kind of behaviour and lack of care or compassion for the girl's pals who allowed her to wander off.
Numpties one and all
Posted by: George on 4:21pm Fri 18 Jul 08
Anyone else looking forward to reading about how Hampshire Police are using hi-tech methods to combat crime?
Anyone else looking forward to reading about how Hampshire Police are using hi-tech methods to combat crime?
Posted by: Denzil, Hampshire on 4:52pm Fri 18 Jul 08
Most of the people i know dont leave there blue tooth switched on. Blue tooth has a signal of only a few meters so who is going to pick it up unless your very close to a cop! Good idea. NOT.
Most of the people i know dont leave there blue tooth switched on. Blue tooth has a signal of only a few meters so who is going to pick it up unless your very close to a cop! Good idea. NOT.
Posted by: Anon, Southampton on 5:21pm Fri 18 Jul 08
What a waste of money! How about a few lit signs and some extra patrols?
What a waste of money! How about a few lit signs and some extra patrols?
Posted by: Jeff McLean, Chandlers Ford on 5:56pm Fri 18 Jul 08
I am a shift worker, and I don't see what the relevance is. In Fords, shift workers do all the donkey work that the days wont do.
I am a shift worker, and I don't see what the relevance is. In Fords, shift workers do all the donkey work that the days wont do.
Posted by: Sue, Southampton on 6:29am Sat 19 Jul 08
I am amazed that the police have so much money to waste. How is this expecting young people to act responsibly? Throughout history, women have been told not to walk through parks or the common on their own. Yet the decent citizens are given no protection during the day. How often do you see a police officer during the day? Never except on match day. How many bullies on bikes on pavements have been fined? How many people feel safe during the day in Southampton - not many.
I am amazed that the police have so much money to waste. How is this expecting young people to act responsibly? Throughout history, women have been told not to walk through parks or the common on their own. Yet the decent citizens are given no protection during the day. How often do you see a police officer during the day? Never except on match day. How many bullies on bikes on pavements have been fined? How many people feel safe during the day in Southampton - not many.
Posted by: The New Pretender, Southampton on 9:01am Sat 19 Jul 08
Couldn't the would-be attacker also send a blue tooth message to all in the area saying "ignore them, I'm ready!".
It's a serious concern but sending a text message - behave!! How is that protecting people...expect more texts shortly such as "don't cross the roads, cars coming" or "beware youths -armed & dangerous"...thanks!
!
Surely it's time to invest in part time vigilantes to clean up our streets & parks!
Couldn't the would-be attacker also send a blue tooth message to all in the area saying "ignore them, I'm ready!".
It's a serious concern but sending a text message - behave!! How is that protecting people...expect more texts shortly such as "don't cross the roads, cars coming" or "beware youths -armed & dangerous"...thanks!
!
Surely it's time to invest in part time vigilantes to clean up our streets & parks!
Posted by: string bean, Wiltshire on 11:53am Sat 19 Jul 08
Before long the gov will have their own way and the parks will be bulldozed, to make way for another housing estate!
Before long the gov will have their own way and the parks will be bulldozed, to make way for another housing estate!
Posted by: Mel on 9:33pm Sat 19 Jul 08
[quote][bold]George[/bold] wrote:
Anyone else looking forward to reading about how Hampshire Police are using hi-tech methods to combat crime?[/quote] Oh shut up! I think you should be banned from posting here, I hate you! You idiot!
George wrote:
Anyone else looking forward to reading about how Hampshire Police are using hi-tech methods to combat crime?
Oh shut up! I think you should be banned from posting here, I hate you! You idiot!
Posted by: Mel on 9:38pm Sat 19 Jul 08
George is probably a rapist himself LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!
George is probably a rapist himself LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!
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