Man arrested as police advise Selebians to 'beat the burglar' this Christmas

The man, a 25 year-old from the Leeds area, was taken into custody by officers who travelled to the city suspecting him to have committed three burglaries in our area. He is currently in police custody for questioning at this time.

Crime prevention

Thieves are opportunistic and if they spot an easy opportunity to get into your house they will take it. It is important that you are security conscious – especially at this time of year – and you make life as difficult as possible for criminals. By following some simple crime prevention steps, you can help to secure your home from burglars.

If you go out at night, leave a light on and draw the curtains – burglars won’t take the chance if it looks like somebody is home.
Fit a door chain and a door viewer – a good way to keep bogus callers out. Remember: Not sure, don’t open the door!
Install security lighting – if other people can see your house a burglar might think twice.
Don’t leave a spare key under the doormat or in a flower pot – thieves know where to look.
Be vigilant – report any suspicious people or vehicles to the police.
Keep an eye out for vulnerable neighbours and relatives – they are particularly vulnerable to the threat posed by bogus callers.

For more crime prevention tips visit the North Yorkshire Police website www.northyorkshire.police.uk/homesecurity

Officers have also been out and about advising residents on how they can beat the burglar in the run up to Christmas. They have today been taking part in what the force is calling a 'day of action', offering crime prevention advice to people to help them combat burglary and bogus callers.

Inspector Dave Edwards, of North Yorkshire Police, said, “Protecting the communities of North Yorkshire is not just about making arrests, giving people good crime prevention advice is very important too.

“Criminals know that peoples’ houses will be full of expensive Christmas presents at this time of year, therefore home security is extremely important to help keep them out.

“For that reason we have had officers out and about across the force giving residents hints and tips about how they can properly secure their homes from thieves.

“Simple things like leaving a light on or hiding Christmas presents away can go a long way towards deterring burglars from breaking into your home."

If you would like to report a crime or anyone acting suspiciously in your area, contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 – select option 1 – and speak to the Force Control Room. In an emergency always dial 999. If you prefer not to give your name, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.