Heybridge: Police warning after spate of burglaries and car crime (From Maldon and Burnham Standard)
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Heybridge: Police warning after spate of burglaries and car crime
10:54am Saturday 11th August 2012 in Local News
Heywood Way, where one of the burglaries occurred
A spate of burglaries and car crime has caused police to appeal to homeowners to secure their properties.
There have been numerous break-ins to both homes and cars so far this month in Heybridge.
Police are unsure if the crimes are linked, but are asking residents to be more vigilant and to look out for suspicious behaviour.
Thieves entered a house in Heywood Way, Heybridge, between 8pm on Wednesday and 3am on Thursday, stealing a child’s rucksack and a ladies’ handbag.
The crime is being linked to another burglary on nearby Sycamore Road, where thieves entered a house using a key which had been left outside.
Thieves entered the house in the early hours of Thursday and stole a bag and a two-figure sum of cash.
Investigating officer DC Victoria Butler said: "Essex is no different to any other county and has its fair share of burglars operating across the area.
“People must lock up properly and not make it easy for these criminals.
“We urge people to close and lock their doors when leaving there premises or before going to bed as opportunist thieves do operate in the area.
“In respect of these two burglaries, we are looking to speak with anyone who may have seen any unusual activity during the middle of that week.”
Three cars in Heybridge were also targeted by criminals during the first week of August.
In Emperor Close, a van was broken into and several items stolen, while a van had its rear registration plate stolen in Roothings.
A third incident took place in Stock Chase, where a car had its front windscreen smashed.
DC Butler said: "We’re not sure if these three crimes are linked or whether they are connected to the burglaries.
“However, it is clear that there are criminals in the area and we ask people to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to us immediately as well as ensuring their cars and homes are secure.”
Anyone with information about these crimes is urged to call detectives at Chelmsford police station on 101.
