Chichester residents urged to secure their properties

Tanya Jones said she was looking for residents to work closely with her and stay vigilant by securing their properties.

“It seems that some crimes could have been prevented if residents made sure their properties were properly secured,” she said.

“People leave valuables, such as wallets or laptops, on display in their vehicles and then leave their vehicles insecure.

“Many offenders who break into cars, homes and garages are opportunist thieves, who simply try doors to see if they are open. I would urge owners to make every effort to deter them by securing their doors and windows. By working together we can reduce burglaries and thefts, the upset and the great inconvenience they cause.

“Please think twice and check before you leave your house or car to make sure it is locked, and please remove valuables from cars before you park it at home, at a sporting event, go shopping or take the dog for a walk. It is such an easy thing to do, and together we can make it harder for offenders to commit crime.”