Police issue warning following spate of patio door break-ins

Photo of police cordon tape at an incident scene.

Police are warning residents in Bradley Stoke and Patchway to report any individuals acting suspiciously and ensure their doors and property boundaries are secure, following a number of recent burglaries across these areas.

A total of eight break-ins in properties across Bradley Stoke and Patchway have occurred between Wednesday 30th October and Friday 8th November. All of the incidents have happened during the day where criminals have targeted rear patio doors by smashing glass door windows and forcing the doors with an implement. Front doors have also been targeted in some of the properties.

There are currently no identified suspects but investigations are ongoing. Members of the public are asked to remain vigilant and to get in touch if they any notice any individuals behaving suspiciously or if have any information which can help with the investigation.

Residents are encouraged to take note of the following burglary crime prevention advice, particularly regarding securing doors and boundaries of properties:

  • Lock all your windows and doors every time you leave your house – even if you are just in the garden – and remembering to double lock UPVC doors
  • Keep entrances to your property easily visible by ensuring nearby hedges and trees are well maintained
  • Make sure boundaries to your property – including fencing and walls – are in a good state of repair
  • Ensure any side gates are securely locked to prevent unwanted access to the rear of your property
  • Where possible install a visual burglar alarm and an outside security light, ideally one of which is sensor-activated
  • Remove valuables from view of ground floor windows
  • Remove keys from door locks and store them out of sight
  • Store any high value items such as jewellery and passports in a properly secured and hidden safe or bank vault
  • Where possible, leave radios and lights in your house on a timer to make the property appear occupied
  • Consider joining your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme

Acting neighbourhood inspector Adrian Fallows commented:

“We take burglary very seriously and are committed to identifying and apprehending the individuals responsible.”

“This latest spate of burglaries have happened in the daylight. We ask those residents who are at home during the day to keep a watchful eye on their neighbour’s properties and get in touch with the police if they spot any individuals acting suspiciously.”

“We are continuing to work hard to reduce the number of burglaries in Avon and Somerset and encourage residents in South Gloucestershire to take note of our burglary prevention advice to make their properties as secure as possible.”

If you can help, please call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5219261795.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their anonymous online form. No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not have to go to court or speak to the police.

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