POLICE in North Yorkshire have launched a campaign targeting criminals living off the proceeds of crime – with local communities set to reap the benefit from the proceeds.

Developed by the police in partnership with the North Yorkshire Local Criminal Justice Board, the “Why should they?” campaign encourages the public to report known criminals who have lifestyles funded though theft, drug-dealing, shoplifting, fraud and money laundering.

Police now have the powers to apply to the courts to confiscate criminal assets such as houses, cash, jewellery and cars which have been obtained through criminal activities.

Part of the money confiscated is ploughed back into community projects.

Detective Inspector Ian Wills, of North Yorkshire’s financial investigation unit, said: “The message of the campaign is very clear – why should criminals benefit at our expense?

“If you are suspicious of neighbours who appear to be living beyond their means and who may be engaged in criminal activity, then let us know.”

He urged the public to report any information, either to their local Safer Neighbourhood Team on 0855 606 0247 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Upon conviction, a crown court judge can make an order which states how much a criminal must pay back.

Last autumn, an operation across Yorkshire and Humberside recovered almost £4 million of assets from criminals, including £200,000 in cash and £260,000-worth of drugs.

A seizure in York saw £66,000 in cash recovered from the home of a suspected drug dealer. Organisations such as schools, youth clubs, care homes, sport clubs, churches and community centres are being urged to submit bids for funding set aside for projects in North Yorkshire.

DI Wills said: “The funding can be used for any project which benefits the community, from repairing the roof on a building to buying new equipment.”

Application forms can be downloaded at www.northyorkshire.police.uk/whyshouldthey or obtained from your local police station.