Holbeach and Spalding feature on burglary hotspot map as Lincolnshire Police launch campaign to tackle number of offences
Lincolnshire Police is upping its efforts on tackling burglary with the launch of a new campaign today (Monday).
With a tagline of “beating burglary together”, the force aims to “enlist the support of the people” to bring down the number of burglaries taking place across the county.
Holbeach and Spalding feature in the list of ‘hot spots’.
The force said its ‘beating burglary together’ campaign will provide an insight into what it does, demonstrate burglary is a priority area and show its commitment to protecting communities and bringing perpetrators to justice.
A key part will be telling people what they can do to protect their property.
Detective Chief Inspector Jo Fortune said: “This is about showing what we do to tackle burglary, from the moment an incident is reported; how we investigate, our commitment to attend every report of a burglary of a home, how we build a case, and how we use information to understand the problem and address it.”
Based on 1,000 snapshot survey responses, burglary was the top recorded answer when respondents were asked “what type of crime concerns you most in the area you live?”
DCI Fortune added: “We know that burglary is a top concern for our communities and we need to show that Lincolnshire Police recognises this and prioritises it.
“To have your home burgled is invasive and upsetting. We want to show the good work that goes on behind the scenes to reduce burglary and protect potential victims.
“Over the coming months, we will be providing an insight into what we do; how we investigate burglary, how our crime reduction tactical advisor protects victims, how we work in collaboration to tackle cross border criminals, and how we deal with prolific offenders through integrated offender management.”
“This will be a long running campaign, with tailored and targeted communications directed to areas and groups that are more vulnerable, alongside general seasonal crime prevention and home security advice.
“The idea that we are ‘beating burglary together’ means a commitment to show what we have done, where improvements have been made to our service, and to keep you informed of emerging risks, trends and hotspots. In turn we hope this will inspire communities to look out for each other, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable.
“We want to make sure you are equipped with crime prevention advice and know the simple steps to reducing your risk.”
Lincolnshire Police said it will tailor the campaign to take into account seasonal changes.
With the official first day of summer on Wednesday, it starts by warning people that leaving their doors and windows open makes their homes vulnerable and increases the risk of a sneak-in burglary. It also warns holidaymakers to avoid making it obvious their home is empty.
DCI Fortune said: “These are the offences where it’s so easy to mitigate the risk simply by locking up and not leaving anything tempting on show.
“Lots of people will go on holiday over the coming months but before you set off, think about any visual indications that your home is empty.
“For example, is your mail visible and likely to pile up on your doormat? Have you left your bin out for collection?
“This is where good neighbours can be invaluable. They could keep a general eye out and bring in your bins if needed.”
Seasonal advice will likely hope to protect Christmas purchases in the winter and draw attention to risks in the autumn when the nights draw in.
The force will also target specific groups that are potentially at risk including: freshers and students in house shares; those living in areas where burglary is persistently higher; those living in areas where a number of burglaries have recently occurred; and those living in an area where a series has been identified.
