New England Police District urge Armidale residents to be extra vigilant about the security of their homes, vehicles, and businesses.
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Seventeen homes and vehicles were broken in to across the township since Friday. Reports come from Donnelly, Douglas, Newton, Barney, Beardy, Dangar, Marsh, and Kirkwood Streets, Amber and Birch Closes, Quinn and Murray Avenues, and Crest Road
A vehicle was also stolen during the break-in at Crest Road, but was recovered a short distance away.
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New England Police District Crime Manager Detective Inspector Ann Joy said most of these offences took place in homes and vehicles that were unsecured.
"Criminals look for easy targets," Inspector Joy said. "Even the most simple security measures can reduce the opportunity for crime.
"Even if you are home or just in the back yard, lock up and put valuables out of sight.
"Thieves don't generally go out of their way looking for targets, but if the easy opportunity is there, they will take it.
"The open window with a wallet, phone, or sunglasses in easy view is an open invitation for a likely offender."
Anyone who has lost a wallet or had one stolen knows that cancelling and renewing credit cards, licences, and phone plans is a huge inconvenience. Often, thieves will have used credit cards before the owner can report them stolen.
Police urge residents to contact police at the first opportunity.
"If you see people in your neighbourhood who seem outside the norm, call us immediately," Inspector Joy said.
"Don't wait to be asked if you've seen something. If you witness suspicious looking activity, hear smashing glass or alarms sounding, report it immediately. Put yourself in your neighbour's shoes, and ask yourself what you hope someone would do for you.
"People in these communities aware of who is committing these crimes," Inspector Joy said. "They need to come forward, either in person or anonymously.
"Meanwhile, residents should think of ways they can decrease the 'rewards' available to offenders, and increase the 'risk' involved with committing the offence," Inspector Joy said.
Police encourage anyone with information about criminal activity or wanted persons should contact Armidale Police Station, or report information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au. (Callers may be eligible for a reward.)
"Any information you have about any of these matters is worth giving to police, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem," Inspector Joy said.
