FACEBOOK has helped police make two arrests, return a father to prison and seize cars three times – all in relation to the same family.
After stopping a car in Shipston, officers found a 17 year-old driver and 16 year-old passenger who were both on bail in Essex for three separate burglaries.
But as the car was searched by PC Craig Purcell, the driver ran off leaving police with false details.
Luckily his passenger had given his name, and after a search through his friends on facebook the officer found the driver’s name, and consequently his south Warwickshire address on the police database.
The check also revealed the teen’s father was wanted by Metropolitan Police for recall to prison after breaching conditions of his release.
Police carried out a dawn raid, arresting both men – who cannot be named due to the son’s age – and returning the father to prison.
When the son was interviewed by police his mother was asked to attend as he is under 17.
But she turned up to the station in a car she was uninsured to drive. Officers seized the car and reported the offence.
Just weeks later it was seized again after she drove through Shipston with no valid tax.
The son had absconded before his hearing at Coventry Magistrates Court when he was found guilty in his absence.
PC Purcell said: “In addition to whatever sentence is imposed when he is arrested and put back before the courts.
“Please do not post speculation anywhere as restrictions are in place and you may find yourself in contempt of court.”
