Local Priorities - Prolific Burglar Update

Dear all residents,

I wanted to write to all personally and share some positive news regarding a prolific burglary suspect recently identified and arrested by our Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) officers.

During late April and early May, I noted an increase in burglaries across our wards and neighbouring areas. Working closely with CID colleagues, we were able to identify a suspect. Using an intelligence-led approach, I analysed crime data to pinpoint key hotspot locations and offending times.

As part of this response, I directed a focused three-day operation, deploying both high-visibility and plain-clothed patrols at targeted times in identified hotspot locations. On the third day, my SNT officers successfully located the suspect within one of our wards - an exceptional achievement. The suspect was arrested on suspicion of 12 burglary offences and was found in possession of a concealed crowbar, a knife, and stolen property taken during an incident the previous week. They were subsequently further arrested for going equipped to steal and for possession of an offensive weapon, bringing the total to 14 offences.

The suspect has since been charged with all 14 offences and pleaded guilty to each at their first court appearance. They remain in custody and are awaiting sentencing later this year.

Thank you for your continued support in helping us keep our community safe.

Many thanks,

Acting Police Sergeant Gary BERRY (Thamesfield and East Putney)