Exeter burglaries halved, say police
Police claim the dramatic reduction in break-ins is a result of more prolific offenders being put behind bars.
And they have credited city cops for a steep drop in vehicle crime.
Over December and January, house burglaries fell by almost 45 per cent — or 22 less offences from the previous year.
And thefts from vehicles dropped by almost 41 per cent — or 20 less incidents.
Detective Sergeant Tim Thornton, of Exeter’s burglary team, said the city’s burglary squad continually monitor the movements of known offenders.
“The arrest and conviction of these known offenders has impacted on these figures as they are now behind bars,” he said.
“The officers maintain that the main offenders are a small number of individuals who are prolific.
“They have all been jailed for offences of burglary, handling stolen goods or vehicle related thefts.
“The process is quite simple — find out who is responsible by gathering evidence from a number of sources, ensure prompt arrests and secure convictions.
“It’s then about keeping track of known offenders, monitoring their movements and habits and working on intelligence.
“If they re-offend or are not rehabilitated the process is repeated.”
Police say burglaries peak during December and January.
In 2008, 610 house burglaries were reported compared with 402 in 2009 — a reduction of more than 34 per cent.
Det Sgt Thorton added: “The results speak for themselves. It’s a massive reduction in house burglaries, which means 208 less victims of crime than the previous year.
“Compared nationally it is a fantastic result and I want the public to feel confident that a lot of work is being done to reduce crime and improve everyone’s quality of life in the city.
“Devon remains one of the safest places to live in the country. We have the fourth lowest crime rate in England and Wales.”
Anyone with information regarding burglary or vehicle crime can ring Devon and Cornwall police on 8452 777 444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Comment on this story