Turning up the heat on crime
POLIC BEGIN SUMMER CRACKDOWN - AND ASK RESIDENTS FOR THEIR HELP
Police say they have begun a summer crackdown to prevent a rise in anti-social behaviour, thefts and other crimes over the coming months.
Officers across Northumbria Police’s Southern Area Command are looking to reduce the number burglary and car crime incidents heading into the summer months in Sunderland and South Tyneside.
Police say they will step up patrols in a bid to combat these types of offences, with lighter nights and warmer weather historically seeing a rise in the crimes.
But Inspector Donald Wade, of Northumbria Police, hopes to buck that trend and has urged people to be on their guard – and not make themselves an easy target for potential offenders.
“We are actively patrolling the streets day after day looking to arrest criminals,” Insp Wade said.
“I want to reassure the public that we are working hard to investigate crimes and proactively target offenders.
“But there’s a few simple steps we can take together to make it harder for criminals to steal our property.
“Many burglars will travel the streets looking for opportunities to break into houses through unlocked doors or windows.
“Please ensure that you keep your doors locked when out in the garden, and keep valuable items away from open windows.
“We have often received reports where criminals have seen an open window and reached in to take laptops, mobile phones or car keys.
“Our message is similar for car crime.
“Thieves will target unlocked vehicles, go street to street trying doors and looking for an easy gain.”