As the recession begins to bite, burglaries are on the rise in Kingston and the area is becoming an attractive target for criminals. Four burglaries were reported in December 2008, while break-ins have also shot up by a quarter during the same period.

Moreover, poorer areas like Tolworth, Hook and Chessington North have experienced a remarkable drop in burglaries over the same period. In December, an overall of 125 burglaries were reported in Kingston. The news came just days after Home Secretary Jacqui Smith announced the recession would not predictably lead to more burglaries, even though the “historical situation” signified a raise in the crime rate. In addition, grove ward town in Kingston remains the prime spot for burglars with more than 12 burglaries per 1000 members of the population. Kingston has experienced its first swell in burglaries for a considerable time in the last quarter of 2008/09.

Kingston police recognise the substantial effect domestic burglary is having on its victims and are committing immense resources towards crime prevention and arresting those responsible. This has resulted in several suspects being arrested and charged in the months of December and January for offences.

The best way to thwart attempted robbery and burglary is to use security safes. By using security safes to guard your possessions, you can ensure that your belongings remain safe even in the case of an attempted theft or burglary.