Valuable goods taken in spate of Stourbridge burglaries
Cash, jewellery and electrical goods are among the items stolen in a spate of burglaries reported within a week of each other.
Police today launched a fresh appeal for residents to be vigilant and have set up extra patrols for officers in Stourbridge in an attempt to combat the problem.
They have also urged homeowners to double check their security while officers try to apprehend the burglars who are at large.
Officers have been alerted to four burglaries and two attempted break-ins around Pedmore since November 4 at separate addresses.
The four burglaries happened in Ham Lane, Stevens Road, Pedmore Lane and Croftwood after thieves broke into houses.
Amounts of cash, jewellery and electrical goods were taken from the properties according to detectives, although further details have not been revealed.
It is believed that burglars also tried to gain entry to two properties on Grange Lane and Hagley Road, Stourbridge.
Residents today spoke of their shock at the burglaries.
Margaret Scott, chairman of Stourbridge Township Council, said: "It is very sad and distressing for people when these burglaries happen and I've seen pictures of the devastation caused in the aftermath."
In almost all of the burglaries, homes were targeted because doors and windows had been left unlocked or open.
Inspector Des Lambert, the neighbourhood Inspector for the area, said: "I have made sure that patrols are increased in the affected areas but want to reassure residents that, although we have seen a number of burglaries, crime continues to fall in the area and overall burglary has reduced.
"I would also implore people to check their security and by taking simple measures including leaving a light on if they go out after dark or locking and closing windows and doors it will drastically reduce the risk of their home being targeted."
