Unlocked doors no problem toburglars

Joanne Ginley

A THIRD of burglaries in West Yorkshire happen because doors are unlocked, police said yesterday.

The shocking figures were revealed as officers released a short animation film showing a burglar easily making his way into an unlit house and garden to highlight the consequences of failing to act on basic crime prevention advice.

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Incidents of burglary tend to increase as the nights draw in and yesterday West Yorkshire Police launched a burglary prevention campaign to urge householders not to make it easy for thieves.

Chris Corkindale, acting superintendent said: “In West Yorkshire, we are working tirelessly to keep burglars at bay and we have seen a 3.6 per cent reduction in burglaries over the last 12 months.

“But, we need to do more and the public have an important role to play. It sounds simple but by locking your doors while you’re at home, leaving a light on while you’re out and keeping valuables well hidden can stop your property being the one a burglar sets their sights on.

“A third of burglaries are down to unlocked doors in West Yorkshire, yet it costs nothing to turn the key on crime and keep them locked.”

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The police’s mobile exhibition vehicles will be playing the animated film at a number of roadshows taking place in the following areas: Fagley on September 7; Armley on September 14; Burley on September 15; Gipton on September 16;Greengates/Ravenscliffe on September 21; Leeds University on September 23; Bradford University on October 5.

The campaign, named “The Usual Suspects” will see postcards and advice handed out on how to deter thieves during patrols and community events, including the universities’ Freshers weeks.

Online crime prevention advice is available at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/ usualsuspects