Essex Police is warning mobile phone users they could be prosecuted if they make false theft reports.
A huge rise in the number of phones reported stolen has pushed up the crime rate and increased officers' workloads.
To try to deal with the problem, the force has a new policy of investigating reports which are believed to be false.
And people reporting a phone stolen are now asked to sign a form to say they understand they could be prosecuted if they lie about a theft.
Colchester police's crime manager, Det Chief Insp Mick Jones, said although he was not suggesting all reports were false, something had to be done.
He said: "We are spending a lot of time on these investigations."
Published Tuesday January 13, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article