Suffolk: Specialist CSI teams called in to investigate burglaries – but PCC Tim Passmore wants a proactive approach next year

People leaving their windows or doors ajar during the warm weather has led to a sharp rise in burglaries across Suffolk, police have warned.

More than 35 burglaries or attempted burglaries were committed across Suffolk between July 30 and yesterday.

Detective Chief Inspector Tonya Antonis, of Suffolk police, said tackling the number of burglaries is a force priority - but the public also need to play their part.

She added one reason for the recent spike is people trying to keep their homes cool in the summer heat.

“What we’re finding at the moment is that a lot of burglaries are because people have left doors or windows unsecured,” Det Ch Insp Antonis said.

“The message we want to get out to people is to be a bit more vigilant in making sure they lock doors and windows.

“When we have a spike in crimes of this nature we increase patrols around these areas.”

Det Ch Insp Antonis added crime scene investigators are sent to all burglaries to try and reduce the number of incidents.

Police and crime commissioner Tim Passmore said although he approves of the action taken by police he wants to see a more proactive approach next year.

“If we know there’s going to be a peak at this time of the year we need to have an awareness campaign,” he said.

“We are putting more investment into automatic number plate recognition and we are helping with CCTV cameras in communities, but the public need to help themselves. We need that good old Suffolk community spirit.”