Spate of car break-ins sparks police warning
CAR owners are being urged to “think security” following a string of thefts across Great Bardfield, Wethersfield and Finchingfield.
In recent weeks a number of vehicles have been broken into and clumsily searched by criminals looking for loot.
PC Peter Carter from the Three Fields neighbourhood policing team said: “We suspect that a thief or thieves have started operating in the area, primarily targeting unlocked vehicles and cars where valuable items are visible through the windows.
“It’s incredibly disruptive and upsetting to have your satellite navigation system, your iPod , your wallet, or even some jewellery stolen, and so I would urge everyone to think security.
“Please lock your cars after you’ve parked them, and remove anything of value from inside.”
Crimes in recent days include an overnight “messy search” of a car in Finchingfield, but nothing was stolen.
Entry was forced to a car in Cornish Hall End, causing �50 damage followed by the theft of jewellery with an estimated value of �500.
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In addition, at the beginning of August, suspects gained entry to five vehicles in Great Bardfield, again making messy searches, but nothing was stolen.
“Most of these incidents took place overnight, and I would urge anyone seeing a person acting suspiciously, perhaps trying the door handles of cars, to let Essex Police know,” said PC Carter.
He added that the communities affected are still a safe part of Essex, and still have a very low overall crime rate.
If anyone has information the policing team on 07791 402113 or officers at Braintree station on 0300 333 4444. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
