'Huge' drop in Welwyn Hatfield burglaries

BURGLARIES in Welwyn Hatfield have fallen by over a third since last year, new figures reveal. Between September 1 and October 12, there were 63 burglaries in the borough, compared to 98 during the same period in 2008, a drop of 34 per cent. Hertfordshir

BURGLARIES in Welwyn Hatfield have fallen by over a third since last year, new figures reveal.

Between September 1 and October 12, there were 63 burglaries in the borough, compared to 98 during the same period in 2008, a drop of 34 per cent.

Hertfordshire Constabulary is citing the launch of Operation Guardian, a preventative burglary initiative that educates residents on home security, for the decrease in crime.

Welwyn Hatfield neighbourhood inspector Ian Grout said: "We must make sure we maintain this huge decrease by encouraging residents in Welwyn Hatfield to maintain their security, and we will continue to detect and arrest burglars.

"We have done a lot of work to educate new students at the University of Hertfordshire and within the wider community about crime prevention measures and I have a committed team of officers who are patrolling the streets and who have already made some notable arrests."

Residents can now get email updates, security advice and info about what's happening in their neighbourhood online at www.owl.co.uk

or contact Welwyn Hatfield neighbourhood watch co-ordinator Christel Anslow on 01707 806801.