Series of burglaries in Chesterfield leads to advice to residents

Residents in Chesterfield are being reminded to keep their homes secure and valuable items out of sight after a series of burglaries in the town over the last 24 hours.

Detectives are investigating seven incidents that took place between 6.30pm on Monday 30 January and 9.20am on Tuesday 31 January.

The reports include three in the Boythorpe Road area of Chesterfield where windows and doors have been smashed in order for the offenders to gain entry.

In another incident, cash and jewellery were taken from a house on Handley Road in New Whittington between 6.30pm and 6.50pm on Monday with glass being smashed in the process.

Just before 9pm on Monday, a property in Calow was targeted with cash and bank cards taken from the kitchen.

Detective Inspector Viki Ellis is leading the team looking into the burglaries, she said: “We understand that this number of burglaries happening in such a short amount of time will be worrying to the local community. However, I want to reassure you that we’re doing everything we can to investigate the incidents and catch those responsible.

“If anyone does have information about the above incidents that would help us with our investigations, I would urge them to contact us as soon as possible.”

Residents can take a number of steps to keep their homes and property safe including:

• Keep windows and doors locked and secure at all times, whether you are in or out of your home.
• Keep valuables out of sight and out of reach of cat flaps, letterboxes, downstairs doors and windows.
• Leave your car keys in a secure place and not on a key hook.
• Use outdoor security lighting.
• Make your home look occupied when you are out – draw your curtains, leave a lamp on or leave a radio playing.
• If it will be dark before you get home, set your lights on timers.
• Consider fitting a burglar alarm - make sure it is installed properly by a reputable firm and is working. Also remember to set it before you leave home, or if you’re going to sleep.
• Keep gates, garages, sheds or outbuildings secure.
• What’s in your garden that could potentially aid a burglar? Lock away ladders and gardening tools to prevent them being used to access your home.
• Never leave a spare key outside of your house – burglars know the usual hiding spots.
• Consider installing a video doorbell or CCTV to help you know who’s outside your property.

If you do have information about the incidents that will help our officers with their enquiries, you can contact us using the methods below:

• Facebook– send us a private message to our Facebook page
• Twitter– direct message our contact centre via @DerPolContact
• Website– We have several crime reporting tools on our website or use our online contact form
• Phone – call us on 101

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111, or by visiting the CrimeStoppers website.