Lincolnshire Police reveal burglary figures and hail successful crackdown on the crime

‘Proud’ police chiefs say a crackdown on burglary has borne fruit — and revealed new figures showing a big reduction in the crime.

Officers say that burglaries are down by 19% as a result of the force’s ‘beating burglary together’ campaign — dropping from 1,642 in 2022/23 to 1,332 in 2023/24.

Police have been trying to speak to people for are likely to fall foul of criminals — offering tips on how to avoid becoming victims and encouraging people to come forward and report suspicious activity.

Figures shared with LincsOnline show the number of incidents by area was as follows:

Boston and South Holland: 2022/23 312, 2023/24 247 (-65)

East Lindsey: 2022/23 465, 2023/24 305 (-160)

Lincoln and West Lindsey: 2022/23 517, 2023/24 505 (-12)

North and South Kesteven: 20223/23 347, 2023/24 275 (-72)

Detective Chief Inspector Jo Fortune said: “We are proud of this reduction in burglary, but we know that we can never become complacent. This work needs to continue, and we are now planning for how we build upon the achievements and good work over the last year.

“We understand how invasive and upsetting it can be to become a victim of burglary. If you ask Lincolnshire people what they worry about, this is an area that comes up time and again.

“We wanted reassure people by showing the good work that goes on behind the scenes, to reduce burglary and protect people, but also ensure they are armed with knowledge of where the risks are, and how to minimise that risk.”

As well as general advice, officers have focussed on specific trends — such as the issues faced by those in student accommodation in Lincoln or caravan owners in Skegness and on the east coast.

Officers have also tried to explain the work done by its officers to spread knowledge of their work.

DCI Jo Fortune said: “We are committed to showing what we do behind the scenes alongside keeping you informed of emerging risks, trends and hotspots. We want to make sure that everyone is equipped with crime prevention advice and knows the simple steps to reducing your risk.

“We plan to continue our campaign, with tailored and targeted communications directed to areas and groups that are potentially more vulnerable, alongside general seasonal crime prevention and home security advice.”

With the summer weather finally here, the next focus is on the challenges posed at this time of year — when opportunistic thieves can seize on open windows and unlocked doors.

DCI Jo Fortune said: “The summer brings an increased risk of burglary. We are reminding people to lock up and not leave anything tempting on show.

“If you are heading off on holiday you might want to think about any visual indications that your home is empty. Keeping an eye out for neighbours’ homes and small things like bringing their bin in can be a great help.”

The force has a dedicated page on its website offering advice to help people avoid burglaries.

If you see a crime in progress call 999.

For reporting suspicious activity or information about someone you believe may be involved in committing burglary or selling stolen goods, call 101. Alternatively, you can anonymously call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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