Burglars are targeting Braintree homes as new figures show break-ins have almost doubled.
But the number of household break-ins in Witham has dropped.
As the national debate rages on whether judges should jail first-time burglars, figures just out show there were 40 household burglaries in the whole of the Braintree police division, which covers Braintree, Witham and Halstead, last month.
That is the same amount as December, 2001, for the whole division.
But last month there were 20 household break-ins in the Braintree area alone - compared to 12 during the same time in 2001.
Witham, however, was down from 25 in December, 2001, to 18 last month.
Braintree police are appealing for help from the public to keep the number of burglaries down.
Chief Supt Sue Harrison, of Braintree police said: "Generally we do see an increase in burglaries in December when people know there are extra things to steal.
"We are doing what we can to solve the crimes from a forensic point of view but I would ask people to help us where they can.
"If you see any suspicious activity please contact us either if you can give general information or about a specific incident. We need a partnership to reduce crime."
Chief Supt Harrison advised that anyone concerned about the safety of their property can contact the crime reduction officer at Braintree police station on 01376 551312 for advice.
Published Thursday, January 16, 2003
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