People 1st Slough heroes save the day
People 1st would like to commend two Slough members of staff for their immense bravery in apprehending a burglar who targeted an elderly resident in Cippenham in June.
Simon Brien and Salim Hamadiche were carrying out their daily Slough caretaking duties when they noticed a suspicious person in the hallways of the flats they were working in. When they asked the stranger who he was visiting, the man made a quick exit.
Unbeknown to the two estate services officers, the man had tried to force his way into an elderly lady’s home minutes before.
The resident was clearly concerned by the attempted burglary, but felt reassured once she knew that Simon and Salim were in the area. Moments later, however, the burglar, Thomas Doherty, returned and this time gained access to another resident’s home.
But Simon and Salim were quick to react when the tenant notified them that the perpetrator has broken into her home and stolen her handbag. The two community wardens caught the intruder, who was later arrested when police arrived.
Thomas Doherty pleaded guilty to two counts of burglary and was sentenced to three years in prison at Reading Crown Court last Thursday (13/9).
Commissioner for public protection, Slough Cllr John Edwards, said: “I cannot commend Simon and Salim enough for their selfless actions in catching the burglar.
“It never ceases to amaze me how some people can commit these kinds of crimes without a thought for their victims who are often left shaken and scared in their own homes.
“I am extremely relieved that both men had the sense to question the burglar in the first place and were there in time to catch him.”
Andrew Billany, chief executive for People 1st (Slough), said: “All credit to Simon and Salim. Their actions illustrate the valuable work of our estate services team and how they help to maintain safe neighbourhoods and strong communities”.
Det Sgt Paul Quinton, the priority crime team for Thames Valley Police, said: “We would like to thank Simon and Salim for their quick thinking. Without them, it may have taken more time to find the man and arrest him.
“Doherty’s sentence reflects the fact that burglary is one of Thames Valley Police’s crime priorities.
“I would advise all elderly residents not to open the door unless you are 100 per cent sure about the person on the other side of it. Use a substantial door chain, and if you don’t have one then don’t open the door at all. If you are concerned then call the police on 999."
Slough Borough Council