Burglar uses bird bath to smash window in Oxfordshire break-in

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 27 Oct, 08:02 · Archive

Two homes believed empty were burgled on 25 October in Oxfordshire, with offenders using a bird bath and fence post to break in.

Two properties in Oxfordshire were burgled on 25 October, targeting homes believed to be empty. At Frog Lane, Milton-under-Wychwood, offenders entered through a side gate and used a bird bath to smash a rear window. On the same date, offenders in Middle Barton used a fence post to break through glass doors at the rear of a property. Both properties appeared visibly unoccupied at the time.

PCSO Wesley Smith said thieves are targeting homes believed empty to steal cash, jewellery and silverware. Opportunist criminals look for simple signs of absence, such as unopened curtains during the day, post building up behind the door or an empty driveway.

Smith recommended several preventative measures including using timer lights or smart bulbs controlled by smartphone, asking somebody to check the property, and keeping the house looking active while away. He also advised residents to double-lock doors, secure windows, remove keys from locks, and install alarm systems, CCTV, doorbell cameras, and letterbox restrictors. He suggested securing rear access points such as gates, gardens, sheds and garages, and keeping car keys and valuables out of sight.

How it is being reported

• Burglar uses bird bath to break into empty homeHomes believed to be empty are being targeted by burglars.Oxfordshire Guardian · 27 Oct, 07:30
• Burglar uses bird bath to break into empty homeHomes believed to be empty are being targeted by burglars.Oxford Mail · 27 Oct, 07:30

In this story: Milton-under-Wychwood · Middle Barton · Wesley Smith · Oxfordshire

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