Good morning Resident

Following recent reports of residential burglaries in my wards, I've been approached by residents who have expressed fear and concern about there being a residential burglary in the area. The after-effects of a burglary understandably extend to the community with fear of being targeted again, fear of offenders returning to the same street, and anger that someone else has violated your privacy by rifling through sentimental possessions. The Police are committed to supporting victims throughout the investigation process by attending all residential burglaries and taking all reasonable steps to identify the perpetrators. For help and support following a burglary, please visit: https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/crime-info/types-crime/burglary/ . 

If you have any information about burglaries which you would like to report anonymously, you can do so via Crimestoppers by clicking the following link: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/keeping-safe/home-property-safety/burglary .

I think it’s important to be transparent about the crime figures in your area. Some of you may be new to Herts Connected and have not yet received updates alerting you to recent incidents in your area. Unfortunately, social media can perpetuate the issue causing residents to believe that more incidents have occurred than the reality. Please see below for the number of residential burglaries which have been recorded since January 1st 2024:

Ashley - 6

Colney Heath, Smallford and Hill End - 5

Cunningham - 10

London Colney - 7

Park Street, How Wood and Colney Street - 12

St Stephens, Chiswell Green and Bricket Wood - 12

I hope it reassures you that the St Albans district has the fourth lowest crime rate for burglaries out of ten areas within Hertfordshire. We remain committed to investigating residential burglaries thoroughly, providing excellent victim support, and bringing offenders to justice. 

Please see below for some crime prevention advice which is particularly useful to follow this guidance during the Christmas period when homes more obviously appear unoccupied to criminals.

Tips to prevent burglary:

For more detailed advice, including a printable Home Security Self-Assessment, please visit the “Protect Your Home” section of our website: www.herts.police.uk/ProtectYourHome

If you haven't already done so, please click on the following survey to raise any community concerns directly to Police. 

Please click here to complete the survey

From your Neighbourhood Policing Team, we wish you a peaceful festive season. 

Kind regards, 

Fiona