CCTV image released of suspected burglar targeting occupied homes

POLICE have released this CCTV image of a man they want to trace as they investigate a series of home burglaries, some of which took place while the victims were in.

A post published on the Christchurch Police UK Facebook page last Friday warned residents to be alert, saying there had been “a number” of break-ins at dwellings in the Oak Avenue area of the town in recent days.

These incidents had taken place overnight while the occupants were sleeping, the post said, with a variety of small items stolen.

In one of the break-ins, last Thursday night, entry is believed to have been gained through a front window before the offenders escaped with several electrical items, a purse and a wallet.

The warning post said: “CCTV in the area has footage of a white male on the driveway of one of the affected properties. He is described as aged about mid to late 30s, with dark thinning hair and facial hair.”

Officers suspect the Oak Avenue area incidents to be linked to a burglary that took place at a property in The Grove in the early hours of last Wednesday.

The CCTV image released relates to this offence, which took place sometime between 3am and 5am and involved the theft of a bicycle, keys and a backpack.

PC Liam Moss said: “I would urge anyone who recognises this man to please contact Dorset Police.”

Residents are also being urged to review their own CCTV and report any suspicious activity involving people or vehicles.

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting crime reference number 55190105336 for the burglary in The Grove or 55190111090 for the Oak Avenue area incident. Crimestoppers can also be called on 0800 555 111.