Wellington Police arrested a 32-year-old man today in relation to a series of daytime residential burglaries in the Lyall Bay and Melrose areas.
A spike in offending was noticed in recent weeks, and with the help of Lyall Bay residents who have provided home CCTV footage, the offender was located and apprehended.
He is due to appear in the Wellington District Court tomorrow (21 January) facing nine charges of burglary and one charge of being unlawfully on property.
The man has managed to gain entry into a number of houses and stolen easily transported items such as jewellery, game consoles and laptops.
Police believe the alleged offender has been walking around the Lyall Bay and Melrose areas during the day, identifying potential properties to target.
He is 185cm (6ft) tall, of a medium build with a hunched or stooped appearance, and has been regularly wearing a grey hoodie, black baggy trackpants and jandals.
If you recall seeing someone fitting this description in the area recently, please report it to Police via 105 – either by calling or online using ‘Update Report’. Please reference file number 230120/5858.
‘It is very pleasing to have made this arrest, and we would like to thank the Lyall Bay residents who have provided CCTV footage which significantly assisted in the identification of the alleged offender,’ said Detective Senior Sergeant Tim Leitch.
Police are also issuing a timely reminder to Wellington residents to review their home security arrangements, as a little bit of thought can deter potential thieves:
- Install deadlocks on doors and windows, an alarm system, CCTV cameras and sensor lights.
- Ensure all doors and windows are locked when you’re not home.
- Record the serial numbers of, and engrave tools, electronics and valuable items with your license number.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
Please be alert to any unusual activity in your neighbourhoods. This can include people knocking on doors, visiting homes that are usually unoccupied during the day and the sound of glass breaking.
If you notice any of this behaviour, please report it to Police immediately on 111.
Further burglary prevention advice can be found at this link.
