Top detective sends warning message to Sheffield over burglars this Christmas

A senior South Yorkshire detective has warned of burglars prowling the streets this Christmas.
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Temporary Detective Inspector Andrew Shields issued the warning as he urged people to lock their doors and windows to boost home security at a time when many homes are full of Christmas gifts.

TDI Shields said: “Burglars know it’s a busy time of year and people are out of their normal routine, families are dashing around shopping or socialising more than usual.

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“Thieves also know that we’re all likely to have presents stored up at home and cash hanging around. We want you to spend it, not let it fall into the wrong hands.

A police warning has been issued about burglars on the prowl in South Yorkshire this ChristmasA police warning has been issued about burglars on the prowl in South Yorkshire this Christmas
A police warning has been issued about burglars on the prowl in South Yorkshire this Christmas

“The most common reason people get burgled is because they’ve left doors and windows open, I can’t stress enough how simple it is to reduce the risk of your home being targeted.

“Close windows when you go out and make sure your doors are locked; don’t let burglars simply walk into your home.”

His team has also released CCTV footage, which shows a burglar trying doors in the Meersbrook area of Sheffield.

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“This footage shows how systematic thieves can be when looking for an opportunity to get into your house. He is scoping out houses for doors left open and unlocked; we see it too many times,” said TDI Shields.

“It also shows the advantage of having CCTV cameras and crime prevention measures like security lights outside your home.

“Please think seriously about crime prevention, because unfortunately there are chancers like this out there, looking to ruin your Christmas.

“My message for thieves like this man, who was jailed for almost two years earlier this year, is that we aren’t taking this lightly. We will find you and bring you before the courts.

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“This year we’ve arrested over 200 people for burglary offences.”

He added: “To protect your home this Christmas, don’t leave presents under your Christmas tree if they are visible from doors and windows.

“Try not to leave large amounts of cash at home.

“It’s a busy time of year, but make sure you lock up when you go out for the day or on a night out.

“Don’t leave your keys near your front door or near windows.

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“If you have CCTV cameras at home, make sure they’re working – if you don’t have them, consider them as a deterrent for thieves. They don’t have to be expensive, there are some cheap doorbell and porch cameras out there that do the job.

“If you’re going out, don’t leave the house in darkness, set some lamps on timers.”