Warning to Ripon residents after spate of shed thefts

Police are warning residents to secure property in rural areas

Police have issued a warning to residents in North Yorkshire after a spate of shed and garage thefts.

They are asking house-holds in Ripon to step up security and join a North Yorkshire Police messaging campaign which shares information about incidents.

It comes after 34 incidents of shed theft since October, nine of which were in the month of January alone.

PCSO Donna-Lise Taylor, of Ripon Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Although North Yorkshire is a very safe place, opportunist thieves will take any chance they can to steal property. I’m asking everyone in Ripon to be vigilant, to take a few minutes to check that their security is up to scratch.

“In particular, make sure shed doors are strong and padlocked, and fix grilles or mesh to any windows. Ensure gates and fences are well maintained, and consider installing low-energy security lights and using gravel on paths to warn of people approaching.

“Secure items inside sheds by locking together or using a ground anchor, and property mark all items – marked property is more difficult to dispose of and will deter an opportunist thief. You should also register all valuable items via the Immobilise website.

“Please also sign up to North Yorkshire Community Messaging, so we can keep you warned and informed about any further incidents in your area. And if you see anything suspicious, please contact us on 101.”

North Yorkshire Community Messaging is a free system that lets people register to receive the latest crime notifications and community news in their neighbourhoods.