Crime wave rocks Carrick

Police responded to over a dozen reports of break-ins or property being stolen at homes and businesses in a seven-day period.

Items removed ranged from 23 radiators to a leather sofa. Drive-by thieves even stole a bed from a garden and a boxer dog.

The opportunist nature of some of the crimes has led police to issue a renewed appeal to householders to secure their homes and belongings.

Community Safety Inspector Colin Audley said: "Domestic burglary is a key priority for the police across D District . Since the 1 Jan 2010 to 18 Oct 2010 we have recorded 837 domestic house burglaries (not including sheds or garages) across the district. In the Lisburn Borough 304, in the Antrim Borough 153, in the Newtownabbey Borough 255 and 125 in the Carrickfergus Borough.

"It is an issue, which strikes at the very heart of our community and is one of the crimes we know people fear the most. When someone breaks into your home and helps themselves to your possessions - it is not just the expense that hurts.

"Despite media campaigns across the province, articles on home security in local newspapers and crime reduction initiatives being carried out still a third of out domestic burglaries across the District are via unlocked doors and windows. Householders need to take steps to secure their own homes."

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There was an attempted burglary on the same date at Slemish Heights where damage was caused to the front and rear door and a drive shaft from a slurry tanker (continued 4) and two lights were stolen at Beltoy Road.

Entry was gained to a tack room at Dalways Bawn Road, Carrick, on 8 October and two days later a burglary occurred at Shore Road, Greenisland with access gained by breaking the locks on patio doors; 23 radiators and one shower tray were taken.

The boxer dog went missing from Cherry Walk on 10 October and a day later the theft of 25 of petrol from a filling station on Woodburn Road was reported. A male wearing grey bottoms and a light blue tee shirt, with medium length dark hair was seen filling a container and then leaving in a white Imprezza.

Suspicious activity can be reported to police by calling 0845 600 8000, alternatively information about crime can be passed to the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.