Operation Littlebrook
Operation Littlebrook is proving a success - as police in Leigh
report a 47 per cent decrease in burglary offences.
Operation Littlebrook was launched in late January in response
to a spike in burglary offences across the Leigh area since the
start of 2010.
Officers have been targeting known hotspot areas in overt and
covert policing operations, aimed at reducing offences, catching
suspects and reassuring the public.
We’re pleased to
have had an impact on burglaries in the area but are keen to reduce
the number of offences further still.
Sgt Ian GenneryIt has involved officers based from Leigh as well as assistance
from those working under Operation Hornet - Essex Police’s
countywide response to home burglaries.
In the 12 day period from the launch of Operation Littlebrook on
Monday January 25 until Friday February 5, there were 11 burglaries
in the Leigh area. This compares to 21 reported within the 12
days prior to the operation, a reduction of 47 per cent.
General patrols have been carried out in residential areas
across Leigh under the 3VP programme, whereby officers identify
vulnerable people, premises and property.
In the context of this operation, police have especially been on
the lookout for homes which look vulnerable and could therefore be
potential targets for burglars.
Since the start of Operation Littlebrook, 171 properties have been
attended by Neighbourhood Specialist Officers (NSOs) and PCSOs,
with advice being given to the residents on how to make their home
more secure.
Sgt Ian Gennery of Leigh police station said: “We’re pleased to
have had an impact on burglaries in the area but are keen to reduce
the number of offences further still, as Operation Littlebrook
continues over the coming weeks.
"A major part of the operation involves educating local residents
on the simple steps they can take to prevent becoming victim to
opportunist burglars, who may otherwise have viewed their property
as an easy target.
"We hope residents will take this advice on board and spread the
message to their friends and family. I am confident that, by
working together, we can reduce burglaries in Leigh”.
