Burglaries

There have been a number of burglaries to properties in Hilton recently whereby the owners have been away.

A distraction burglary also occurred whereby a male stated he was from the water board. The resident denied access however the male returned with two others and forced entry once the door was opened. Nothing was taken however two victims (one very elderly) were very badly shaken up.

This was a very frightening attack on elderly residents, by criminals who purported to be from the Water Board. Although the resident asked to see ID, the criminals returned from their vehicle with weapons and forced entry.

This is a very serious incident - aggrevated burglary. Please ensure that you pass this on to residents in your area, particularly the elderly. The message must be do not open the door to strangers until you are sure that the individual is entirely genuine. This is difficult to do, but if it is dark, then I would recommend not answering the door at all.

Police patrols have been increased in Hilton and an unmarked vehicle has also been utilised by us (NPT).

Advice to residents to report suspicious persons or vehicles on 03454564564. When going away to consider timed lighting, neighbours, family or friends to keep a very close eye on the property.

Not to open doors to strangers without using a chain and to report to police any suspicious persons stating they are from utility companies. Utility companies should not be calling and asking for entry unless a meeting has already been arranged and the resident is aware of why they will be calling ie boiler service etc. If in any doubt - not to answer doors.

The Police are very happy to take any reports of this sort, as they can often piece together the evidence from the smallest of reports and hence pick up a trend before a crime is committed.