Thousands of pounds worth of damage has been caused by burglars at a home in one of the worst examples of wanton destruction ever seen by Essex Police.
The property in Station Road, Hatfield Peverel was broken into overnight between April 2 and 3.
As well as stealing prized jewellery belonging to the owners crooks flooded the kitchen, slashed sofas and chairs, and dumped the living room TV in a bath.
The burglars even appeared to have stopped for a snack during the raid.
The victim, who did not want to be named, said: “There has been a tremendous amount of damage done to our home.
“It has been quite unsettling since it happened and I have felt uneasy thinking about it since then.
“Our home has been ransacked without a second thought, it looks like they have just gone mad inside our house, intent on causing as much destruction as possible.
“A lot of my jewellery has been stolen, some of which had been passed down to me and has great sentimental value.
“I would ask that if anyone knows who has done this, please tell the police.”
The jewellery included a wedding ring and was stolen along with a computer, laptop, tablet computer, and watches.
Dc Nick Campbell of Essex Police said: “I have been too many burglary crime scenes over the years, but this incident stands out as one of the worst examples of mindless destruction that I have seen during my career.
“They have caused catastrophic damage to this family home which will take time and money to put right.
“There are lot of enquiries ongoing with this investigation, but I would appeal to the public to contact Braintree CID if they have any information that may help us or speak to Crimestoppers in confidence.
“I am intent on catching those responsible for this burglary, before they strike again in our county.
“Essex Police has driven down burglary rates in recent years and have been successful in convicting some of our most prolific burglars, but we will continue to need the support of the community to help us with our investigations.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dc Campbell at Braintree CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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