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Criminals preying on homes in Delapre have had focus turned in their direction as part of Operation Guardian this month.

Since the beginning of February, police officers and members of partner agencies have been calling at homes in the area, handing out free SmartWater Forensic Marking, burglary and vehicle crime reduction kits. A significant number of homes have also had security upgrades installed by Operation Guardian partners, Care & Repair’ fitters.

As part of the home visits, residents are being asked what concerns them about living in the area. In the last twelve months, there have been more than 3,000 fewer burglary victims as a result of this type of project-based work in Northampton as a whole.

Inspector John Mckinney of Community Safety Northamptonshire Police, said: “We have already seen a reduction in burglary and vehicle crime in Delapre as a result of these home visits, compared with the same period last year.

“The latest partner to come on board is Trading Standards, who for some weeks now have been working alongside Police, checking property sold to second-hand shops and cash converters for any ‘SmartWater’ marking.
 
"A schedule to cover the car- boot sales across the county is also taking shape. We intend to reduce the rewards for burglars and make it very risky for them to operate in Northamptonshire”.

Cllr Paul Varnsverry, Northampton Borough Council cabinet member for community engagement said: “A few simple steps to improve security often make all the difference in preventing homes and vehicles from attracting the unwelcome attention of criminals looking for an easy target.”