Smaller items are targeted in house break-ins
In this column I would like to update you on the subject of house break-ins which was highlighted by the Stirling area community as a policing priority in Police Scotland’s Your View Counts survey.
This year so far, compared with the same period last year, house breaking and attempted house break-ins to homes in Stirlingshire are down by 25 per cent. The number of break-ins to commercial and business premises is down 12 per cent over the same period.
All house break-ins are treated as a priority crime and here at Stirling we have a dedicated community investigation unit who lead on these enquiries.
This team comprises uniform and detective officers and, as well as gathering all evidence available, including speaking to all witnesses and making sure all forensic opportunities are progressed.
Officers in the unit also link with colleagues across Forth Valley and indeed all over Scotland to make sure intelligence and information is shared and acted upon.
On occasion house break-ins are committed by criminals travelling Stirling area commander Chief Inspector Lynn Ratcliff on a fall in the number of break-ins to homes and businesses.
across the country, who can be stealing items to order. It is therefore important that we are able to work with colleagues all over Scotland in an effort to identify the persons concerned and bring them to justice.
Despite all the good work done to date and the vigilance of the public, house break-ins still take place but they are becoming rarer.
From the few break-ins that have taken place over the last couple of months, typically thieves are targeting small household gadgets such as smartphones, electronic notebooks, gaming stations and laptops.
These items are easily carried away and generally can be sold on.
If you are able to do so it’s a good idea to store these items out of sight whilst you are away from the house. The lack of anything obvious to steal may just be enough to deter a housebreaker.
Furthermore, make sure all windows and doors are secured and locked, Making your house difficult to get into could be enough to make a burglar think again.
On a slightly different note, garages and garden sheds can also be an attractive prospect for housebreakers. Bicycles, other sporting equipment and garden tools are also relatively easily removed and are likely to be sold on at a fraction of the price paid for them.
Please make sure if you have a garden shed or garage that it is well secured with a strong lock or padlock and, if possible, install a security light which will activate if someone approaches during the hours of darkness. Very often simple solutions can be just as effective as elaborate and expensive security devices.
If you suspect that someone you know may be involved in house breakins or if you are offered goods that you suspect may be stolen please get in touch with Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively you can report this via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.