Hathersage shed break-ins urge police response

Thieves used bolt croppers to cut through a security padlock of a rear garden shed last night between the hours of 9pm and 7am this morning (Friday, June 5).

On the same night as the incident in Crosslands Road, Hathersage, another shed in the street was targeted, although police have not confirmed if anything was stolen.

Now Safer Neighbourhood officers are asking residents to consider the security of their own sheds, garages and outbuildings to further protect their property from being targeted by thieves.

PCSO Anthony Boswell from the local policing team said: “Thankfully there are extra security measures that can be put into place to further property residents’ property from being targeted by thieves.

“Firstly, it is important to ensure that sheds are properly secure, with non-reversible screws applied and a good quality lock fitted to help deter thieves and prevent forced entries.

“Also, wherever possible, avoid leaving valuable property in a shed if it can be stored elsewhere such as in a garage or outbuilding away from view of passers-by.

“Members of the public are our eyes and ears so if you see anyone acting suspiciously in the neighbourhood then contact police promptly.”

Other crime prevention advice for boosting shed and garden security include:

Derbyshire Constabulary encourages people to consider purchasing a shed alarm to help to deter a thief and secure any bikes with a quality chain even if they are inside the shed or garage;

Ensure that valuables are kept out of view from passers-by and consider covering your windows from the inside to prevent thieves from taking a look.

Don’t leave items in your garden that could make the life of a thief any easier. For example, a ladder left out in your garden could be used to get into the upper floor of your home or onto the top of your shed.

Anyone with any information about the above incident is asked to call PCSO Anthony Boswell on 101, quoting crime number 23502/15

To speak to the Safer Neighbourhood policing team call 101, and follow them on Twitter: @HathersageSNT