Devon & Cornwall Police News site

Police are appealing for witnesses and footage following further reports of home break-ins and vehicle thefts in Plymouth.

Officers were called following reports of a property being broken into in Elford Crescent in the early hours of Thursday 20 February.

Entry to the property was forced and car keys taken, before the suspect or suspects made off in the occupant’s vehicle.

A further burglary was attempted in Harewood Crescent overnight between Wednesday 19 February and Thursday 20 February.

The victim woke up to a loud noise and saw signs of an attempted forced entry. Fortunately, on this occasion no access was gained and nothing was stolen.

Another stolen vehicle was located in Waddon Close.

Enquiries into all matters are ongoing. Anybody with any relevant information of dash-cam or CCTV footage is asked to contact police on 101 or via our website quoting 50250044081

Devon and Cornwall Police is issuing the following advice to protect residents against vehicle crime following several vehicle thefts in Plymouth.

•              Ensure vehicles are left locked and secure with alarm set.  Consider purchasing a steering wheel lock for additional security.  Do not leave any property within your vehicle.  Lots of light deters thieves, make sure your car can be seen by anyone approaching it.

•              Make sure that all front and back doors to properties are locked and windows are secure.  Set your alarm system or consider having one installed if you don’t have one. You are far more likely to be targeted if you don’t have an alarm installed.

•              Ensure that car keys are stored away from doors and windows, preferably in a locked and secure drawer or box.  We recommend a faraday pouch to secure car keys in when at home.

• Do not leave the key for the steering lock on the same set of keys for the vehicle.

•              Keep an eye out in your neighbourhoods and communities.  Report suspicious behaviour to the police or Crimestoppers.  Provide descriptions of any suspicious vehicles you see such as registration numbers.  If you have doorbell footage of anything suspicious, please provide this to the police.  Look out for your neighbours and help to keep your communities safe.

Further information will be passed through our DC Alert system.

Devon and Cornwall Alert system offers crime prevention advice and warns of crime trends and incidents. Its free to sign up, for more information visit the DC Alert website. Please make sure you select the category relevant to you to ensure we can target our messaging appropriately.