Large fall in Exeter burglaries (From Mid Devon Star)

Large fall in Exeter burglaries

2:00pm Monday 8th February 2010

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NEW crime figures reveal that burglary and vehicle crime in Exeter during December and January have been reduced compared to figures for the same period last year.

Detectives say these reductions have been achieved by increased pressure on known offenders to counter criminal activity.

A police spokesperson said: “The arrest and conviction of these known offenders has impacted on these figures as they are now behind bars.

“The main offenders are a small number of individuals who are prolific offenders.

“ The offenders have all been jailed for offences of burglary, handling stolen goods or vehicle related thefts.”

Officers say that because these criminals have been jailed domestic burglary has been reduced by 44.9% and theft from vehicles have been reduced by 40.8%. This means there have been 22 fewer offences of house burglary and 20 fewer thefts from vehicles.

During 2008 there were 610 domestic burglaries in Exeter compared to 402 in 2009 - a reduction of 34.1%.

Det Sgt Tim Thornton of Exeter’s burglary team said: “We have continued to target known offenders in the Exeter area.

“It is a direct result of the good work being carried out by officers that has resulted in custodial sentences for prolific offenders and in turn reduced domestic burglary and vehicle crime.

“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.”

He added: “The results speak for themselves, it’s a massive reduction in house burglary which means 208 fewer victims of crime than the previous year.

“When compared nationally it’s a fantastic result. “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 and Cornwall remains one of the safest places to live in the country. We have the fourth lowest crime rate in England and Wales.”

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