Increase in outbuilding and vehicle break-ins amid COVID-19 pandemic

Police officers in Northamptonshire are advising the public to stay ahead of criminals who are seeking to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since the lockdown was imposed in March, crime trends have changed in the county and while some crimes types, such as residential burglary, have dropped, others – such as shed breaks and thefts from motor vehicles have risen.

Neighbourhood Inspector Rob Offord, said: “Criminals are exceptionally resourceful people and while we would love them to apply this resourcefulness to something useful that might benefit society, unfortunately they apply it to taking advantage of society instead.

“Since the lockdown at the end of last month, we have seen a rise in break-ins to outbuildings such as sheds and garages, as well as an increase in thefts from motor vehicles, and we want to inform the public so they can take the necessary steps to protect their hard-earned possessions.

“If you can, please remove any valuable items that might tempt criminals from your sheds and garages as well as from your cars and vans. Don’t let them take advantage of this global pandemic to steal things we know you have worked hard for.

“Increased police patrols are taking place across the county for reassurance but we would also encourage you to report anything out of place to us – whether that’s suspicious people or cars in your area, we want to hear about it so we can get ahead of those who seek to commit crime.”

For more detailed crime prevention tips, please visit: www.northants.police.uk/cp