Gloucestershire Constabulary are warning homeowners with sash windows to be vigilant after a spate of burglaries in Cheltenham.
There have been 24 burglaries and attempt burglaries at properties with sash windows in Montpellier, stomach Lansdown and Tivoli in the past five weeks.
Police are urging residents with this type of window to be on their guard as they are particularly vulnerable to becoming a victim of burglary.
In one case, unhealthy on Tuesday 8 December, no rx an offender was disturbed attempting to break into a property on Montpellier Terrace. At around 6pm, the homeowner heard a noise from outside and opened her blinds to find that a man was trying to gain entry through her sash window. He made off from the scene on a dark coloured mountain bike and is described as being in his late 20s to early 30s, of a medium build and wearing a dark coloured beanie hat and scarf.
Sergeant Jo Fletcher, from Cheltenham Police, said: “We are urging residents in Montpellier, Lansdown and Tivoli to be extra vigilant following a series of burglaries where premises with sash windows are being targeted, particularly basement flats. The offender is forcing front or rear sash windows to gain entry and sealing laptops, jewellery and cash. We believe the offender is on a pushbike and the offences tend to be between 8pm and 10pm, but some burglaries have been as early as dusk.
“Residents need to take this message seriously and ensure that their windows are secure and where possible put additional security in place, particularly additional window locks and light timers. If your property is empty, these measures could all potentially prevent your home from being burgled. We would also like to encourage residents to report to us any persons they feel are acting suspiciously.”
Residents in Cheltenham seeking further crime prevention advice and guidance can contact their local PCSO. Contact details can be found here:https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/neighbourhood-policing/cheltenham/