Ward Sergeant's Update - Burglary

Ward Sergeant's Update - Burglary

You may be pleased to know that I'm back and raring to go after my break. From what I've seen and heard, the team have been working hard in my absence and have been doing a fantastic job whilst I've been away.

What your Safer Neighbourhood Team has been doing whilst I’ve been away.

One individual arrested for common assault.

One individual arrested for GBH and breach of court order.

One individual arrested for Possession of Class A with intention to supply.

One individual Possession of Offensive Weapon and Public Order offences.

Three individuals on separate occasions searched for drugs.

One individual searched for weapons.

20 investigations completed, which included offences like; threats to kill, assault, criminal damage, theft, vulnerable adults and ASB.

21 ongoing investigations, which include offences like, theft, drug related offences, criminal damage, harassment and ASB.

Foot patrol around the wards.

Staffing up emergency response team.

Reassurance patrols.

Officers deployed to other areas in Camden and London to deal with protests, elections and other AID requirements (AID is where an officer is deployed elsewhere from their normal role).

Mental Health Warrants completed and assisting our NHS partners.

Burglary

Burglary is one of those offences that can have a lasting impact on victims. When someone invades what should be your place of safety, whether that's your home, business or workplace and takes what belongs to you, the impact is often much greater than the value of what has been stolen. It leaves people feeling violated, vulnerable and anxious, with little thought from the suspect/s about the distress and disruption they have caused.

Over the past few weeks, there have been a few burglaries and attempted burglaries across Belsize and Gospel Oak. These incidents have understandably left victims and members of our community feeling worried and unsettled. I completely understand those feelings. My own neighbour was the victim of a burglary several days ago and it has had an impact on our community, myself included, leaving many of us feeling anxious and vulnerable.

My team and I are reviewing all available intelligence and crime reports to identify those responsible. We are working closely with Camden Council, who are deploying their Community Support Engagement Officers to areas most affected and we are directing our patrols towards hotspot locations when operational demand allows.

Please continue to report any suspicious activity to us. The information you provide could be the key piece of intelligence that helps us identify and arrest those responsible.

Burglary Prevention Advice

Most burglars look for easy opportunities. Improving visible security and reducing opportunities can significantly reduce the risk of a burglary.

Lock it, light it, alarm it and don't advertise it.

Home Security

Always lock doors and windows, even when at home or leaving for a short period.

Fit good-quality locks and consider using security products

Install a burglar alarm and ensure it is regularly maintained. Visible alarm boxes can act as a deterrent.

Use external lighting, particularly sensor-activated lighting around entrances and vulnerable areas.

Make Your Property Less Attractive

Keep valuables out of sight from windows.

Avoid leaving tools, ladders, or other items that could help a burglar gain entry.

Secure sheds, garages, and side gates.

Improve Natural Surveillance

Keep front gardens tidy and avoid high hedges or fences that provide hiding places.

Consider CCTV as an additional measure, but remember it is not a substitute for good physical security.

When Away From Home

Use timer switches for lights to make the property appear occupied.

Ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on the property and remove post from view.

Avoid advertising holidays or extended absences on social media.

Property Identification

Mark valuable property and keep a record of serial numbers.

Beware of Distraction Burglary

Always verify the identity of unexpected callers before allowing them into your home.

Do not feel pressured into opening the door or allowing access.

There are many websites that offer burglary advice for further information

Keep burglars out of your property | Police.uk

Burglary - Victim Support

Keep burglars out of your property | Metropolitan Police

Burglary | Crimestoppers

I hope you have a fantastic and relaxing weekend

All the best

Mark

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Message Sent By
Mark McCann
(Metropolitan Police, Sergeant, Gospel Oak)