Sneak thieves caught on camera looking for easy pickings

By Ben Fitzgerald - 16 July 2019

Crime

Police are appealing for information regarding an attempted burglary and theft from motor vehicles in Haydon Wick, Swindon.

Police have received reports about two men who were seen in Capesthorne Drive and Meadowsweet Close, between 3.30am and 4.30am on dates in late June and early July. 

They were seen going house to house, trying door handles to properties, entering and attempting to enter rear gardens and stealing items from vehicles. 

PC Teresa Herbert, who is based at Gablecross Police Station, is encouraging people to check their home security.

She said: "We have a clear CCTV image of a man we would like to speak to in connection with this, although he does have his face and head covered.

"This is also a good opportunity for people to be reminded of the importance of home and vehicle security.

"We are very often called out to investigate these types of crimes, and there are some easy steps people can take to avoid becoming a victim. These include:

- Lock your doors and windows every time you leave the house, even if you're in the garden, and make sure you have approved locks or bolts on all doors and windows.

- Never leave a spare key in a hiding place like in a plant pot or letterbox - a thief knows all the hiding places.

- Keep all keys, purses and wallets out of sight and away from the letterbox.

- Consider installing a burglar alarm, and only use a company that is registered or certified with the NSI or the SSIAB.

- Keep your vehicle locked, windows shut and your keys secure.

- Park in a well-lit area and in clear view of your property and any CCTV cameras.

"It may seem like common-sense, but it is the most effective way to keep yourself and your property safe from opportunist thieves and burglars."

PC Herbert added: "These cases also highlight how useful CCTV footage can be - not only can the cameras act as a deterrent to would-be criminals, but it can also provide vital evidence for our investigations."

To read more about home security please go to the police website: https://www.wiltshire.police.uk/article/826/Protect-your-home

If you recognise the man in the CCTV footage please call PC Herbert on 101, quoting crime reference 54190060713. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Please also report any suspicious activity in your area by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Your Comments

Be the first to comment on this article

Login or Register to post a comment on this article

Subscribe to The Link

Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027, Positive Media Group, Old Bank House, 5 Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 4BJ