Copthorne burglaries among spate of eight break-ins in three hours (From Redhill And Reigate Life)

Copthorne burglaries among spate of eight break-ins in three hours

11:57am Wednesday 31st October 2012 in Local News

Detectives are linking eight burglaries which happened in three hours at homes across Mid Sussex, including in Copthorne.

Three homes in Copthorne in Lashmere, Knowle Drive and Brookhill Road, were among the eight broken into between 6pm and 9pm on Saturday, October 20.

Sussex Police said cash and jewellery was stolen.

The spate of raids also saw homes in Haywards Heath, Lindfield and Turners Hill burgled.

A Sussex Police spokesman said the culprit or culprits got into the houses by forcing windows and doors.

Detective Sergeant Sian Harding, who is leading the investigation, said: "We believe all eight burglaries are linked due to the modus operandi."

Det Sgt Harding said: “At a property in Church Avenue, Haywards Heath, four people were spotted acting suspiciously - one of whom was observed knocking on the door a short time before the house was then burgled. “In other areas, the suspects have been described as two white men seen driving a small white hatchback car. “A large dark saloon-type car has also been spotted near some of the targeted homes.”

Det Sgt Harding said: “This recent spate of break-ins is very distressing for local residents, who have witnessed a rise in daytime burglary. “There will be increased patrols in the area and officers are continuing with house-to-house enquiries. “Please dial 999 immediately if you see or hear any suspicious activity, or you have had complete strangers knocking on your door but who do not want anything in particular.”

She added: “I would like to remind homeowners to please make sure that their properties are secure before leaving for work."

Anyone with information should call Sussex Police on 101, quoting serial 1628 of 20/10, or leave an anonymous message with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.