West Yorkshire Police try an unusual Christmas card

Chief Superintendent Alison Rose said: “This card looks just like any
other Christmas card until you open it – then you see the letter
written by Amy. It’s a very emotive letter and should soften even the
hardest heart. I hope that the criminals who receive the card read it
and think about the words – some of them will have children or younger
brothers and sisters and should consider how they would be affected by
a burglary at their home.” 

John Bates – Restorative Justice Facilitator for West Yorkshire
Probation Service – said: “The Christmas card is an excellent
progression following the restorative justice conference where Amy’s
letter was read to the offender. The whole idea of the restorative
process is to give a voice to the people harmed in order to try and
repair some of the damage caused. From initially meeting with Catherine
and Amy to seeing where they are now clearly evidences the benefits of
the process and subsequent Christmas card campaign.”

Incidents of burglary often see a national increase in the run up to
Christmas and Police are working to ensure that people know how to
protect their homes and keep their belongings safe by taking simple
measures. Over 100,000 households will also be receiving a Christmas
card of their own this year which will offer them basic crime
prevention advice. The cards will also be handed directly to Christmas
shoppers across Bradford district.

Read the whole release, and view a video of Amy reading her letter.