Shropshire Star

Two Telford break-ins are reported every day

More than 360 houses in the Telford & Wrekin area have been broken into since the start of February.

Published

Since February 1, a total of 367 houses have been burgled in the district, which makes it an average of two burglaries a day.

Officers from West Mercia Police said most burglaries happened when raiders managed to gain access through an unsecure window or door. They also said that nine people were charged in July for burglary.

Sergeant Joanne Woods, of West Mercia Police, said: "Telford & Wrekin has a dedicated team of detectives investigating house burglaries that occur in the area, each offence is reviewed and every avenue explored to identify the person responsible.

"We work closely with forensic teams and intelligence departments, both locally and nationally, to identify similarities and target known offenders.

"In July, nine offenders were charged and where appropriate remanded in prison while officers continue to investigate to ensure the court has all the available evidence.

"Detectives will then work with partner agencies such as Probation to manage offenders after their release to prevent offences occurring."

In May, Stephen Corbett was jailed for 27 months after stealing £16,859 worth of property from a home in Priorslee.

Corbett, 32, of Berberis Road, Leegomery, admitted a charge of burglary, committed on November 17 last year, where he stole antique jewellery, a wedding ring, laptop computer, camera, iPhone, cash and the coin collection.

He gained entry into the property through a rear kitchen window when the owners were out, Stafford Crown Court were told.

In March, a burglar pulled a knife on the owners of a house when he was disturbed during a raid in St Christopher's Way, in Malinslee.

A quantity of jewellery including two Pandora bracelets with a total of 17 charms were taken as well as a Micheal Kors watch and a white gold ring.

A tablet computer and a Nokia Lumia phone were also taken and a TV was unplugged and moved but not taken.

Constable Lee Thomas said: "Most thieves and burglars are opportunists and will always take the easy option over the hard one.

"We would appeal to all our residents to make sure your home is secure, whether you are at home or not."

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