Police initiative to help prevent home break-ins

A COMMUNITY volunteer has joined forces with the Richmond Police District crime prevention unit with a new initiative to combat home and property break-ins across the Ballina Shire.

Doug Townsend is a retired police officer with 30 years’ experience who has been working in a volunteer role for the past five years.

Part of his work is spent reviewing property crime reports with assistance from video footage.

“I see a lot of video footage and they go from house to house until they find something unlocked, it’s a crime of opportunity,” Mr Townsend said.

“Sadly, people are making it easy for the crooks by leaving doors and windows open.

“If we can tighten things up there, I think it would reduce this sort of crime dramatically.”

Mr Townsend said the main items taken at break-ins are cash, bank cards and cars.

To help, the Richmond Police District Crime Prevention Unit is promoting an evening procedure designed to make homes and vehicles less attractive targets for opportunistic thieves.

It involves bringing valuables from cars and outdoor areas inside, removing potential climbing aids such as outside ladders and locking everything from the inside.

“They’re actually going into people’s bedrooms when they’re asleep and they have no idea until they wake up the next day,” Mr Townsend said.

“If you have security systems installed, remember to turn them on. “This isn’t about fear; it’s about empowerment.

“By taking a few minutes each evening to follow these steps, residents can significantly reduce their vulnerability and protect their hard-earned possessions.

“We believe that a vigilant and proactive community is our strongest ally in preventing crime.”

The Richmond Police District reminds the community to report crime by call triple zero If it is happening at the time.

To report crime confidentially, call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The NSW Police Community Portal at portal.police.nsw.gov.au is another resource for reporting crime.