Burglary rate halved in Burnley thanks to police taskforce

Figures show that since the taskforce hit the streets on June lst, there has been a 58% reduction in burglaries in Burnley, with 34 fewer crimes when compared with the 59 last June.

Police called on more than 50 known offenders to warn them about their behaviour and delivered more than 1,000 leaflets to homes in hot-spot areas encouraging residents to keep their doors locked and secure.

They monitored crime trends and focused tactics on the Gannow, Rosegrove, Duke Bar and South-West Burnley, where thefts have occurred recently

Insp. Tom Riley said: “The operation has been very successful so far and we have had positive feedback from the public.

“We identified a number of houses where windows and doors have been left unlocked or open during the day and evening with residents upstairs or in the back garden.

“Research carried out as part of Operation Fortress suggests most burglaries are committed by a small number of opportunist criminals, who will only commit the offence if they find an open door or window. Our message is simple, keep your doors and windows locked, particularly during the warm weather. Sneak-in burglary has reduced significantly although of those which have occurred this month, 80% were from people leaving their doors unlocked.”

The police have also praised the public for continuing to come forward with information about suspicious behaviour. In one instance a resident caught two youths trying door handles in the Allendale Street area of Burnley. The boys, aged 17 and 18, were arrested and released from custody pending further inquiries.

Insp. Riley added: “The public have been fantastic in coming forward with information. By acting fast and reporting suspicious behaviour to the police, we can potentially prevent offences from occurring.”

Anyone with information about burglary or who sees anything suspicious can contact police on 08451 253545 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.