A spate of arrests over suspected burglaries in York have led police to warn residents to be on their guard.
Officers said residents in the north of York – including the Clifton, Huntington Road, Groves and Heworth areas – should be particularly vigilant, after a number of reports of incidents and suspicious circumstances.
On November 13, at around 4.30am, police attended a commercial premises in Muncastergate, Heworth, following a report of suspicious activity.
Two men, aged 34 and 21, both from York, were arrested at the scene on suspicion of burglary. They have been released on bail pending further enquiries.
On November 14, a suspected burglar was disturbed in a house on Heslington Road early in the morning.
He fled the scene, but a 38-year-old York man was arrested later the same day on suspicion of burglary in connection with the incident. He has been released on bail as enquiries continue.
‘Be extra vigilant’
PC Andrew Pearson, of the York North Neighbourhood Policing Team, said they had made a number of arrests and stepped up “reassurance patrols”.
He said: “Although York is a very safe city, I am urging residents to check the security of their homes, and be extra vigilant, particularly during hours of darkness.
“Don’t hesitate to report any suspicious activity to the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.”
PC Pearson urged residents to contact their local police team who can provide free crime prevention surveys and property marking facilities.
They should also register for North Yorkshire Community Messaging so they can receive updates on crime in their area and crime prevention advice.
Foil the burglars
Key ‘dark night’ crime prevention advice includes…
a well-lit home gives the impression that someone is in
use timer switchers to turn lights on while you are out
don’t leave curtains closed during the day, only in the evening and overnight
lock all windows and doors
keep valuable items out of view
keep gates well secured