Spate of burglaries prompts police warning
Residents were urged today to secure their homes and take other safety measures after a period of increased burglaries, especially in the Hamilton Parish area.
A spokesman for the Bermuda Police Service said there had been 11 burglaries since June 3, mostly in the eastern part of the island.
Properties have been targeted in the early morning and midafternoon.
In a number of cases, the suspect has been described as wearing sweat pants, a hoody and a ski mask.
Detective Inspector Tiffany Caisey, of the criminal investigations unit, warned: “Burglary is not merely a physical act, it is an emotional intrusion that impacts a person’s sense of safety and wellbeing.
“Every resident deserves peace within their home and the assurance that their hard earned property and personal privacy will not be violated.
“While the BPS continues to work diligently to provide that assurance, we need you to partner with us and be the eyes and ears of our community, and help hold accountable those who choose to engage in burglary, or for that matter, any form of criminal activity.
“If you see something, call us.”
• Always lock all doors and windows, even if leaving for only a short time
• Ensure exterior lighting is working properly. Motion-activated lights around entrances and dark areas can deter would-be intruders
• Trim hedges and shrubs around doors and windows to remove potential hiding places
• Consider installing a home alarm system, video doorbell or security cameras. Even visible cameras and alarm signage can discourage offenders
• Keep valuables, vehicle keys, handbags, wallets and electronic devices out of sight from windows
• Secure sheds, garages and outbuildings with sturdy locks, and safely store tools that could be used to gain entry to your home
If you are travelling, before leaving:
• Ask a trusted family member, friend or neighbour to check your property regularly
• Arrange for mail and newspapers to be collected so they do not accumulate
• Use timers on lights or smart home devices to create the appearance that someone is home
• Where possible, have someone occasionally park a vehicle in your driveway
Avoid announcing your travel plans on social media. Posting photographs, videos or updates while you are away can unintentionally advertise that your home is vacant. Consider waiting until you have returned home before sharing holiday photos or travel experiences
If you have elderly relatives or neighbours:
Older residents are often targeted because offenders may believe they are more vulnerable.
• Check in with them regularly
• Encourage them to keep doors locked, even while at home
• Ensure they have adequate exterior lighting and that overgrown vegetation is kept trimmed
A BPS spokesman added: “While no one security measure can completely eliminate the risk of crime, making your home a more difficult target can significantly reduce the likelihood of you becoming a victim.”
Anyone with information on this spate of burglaries or other criminal activity was asked to call the main police numbers, 295-0011 or 211, or the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers on 800-8477.
Police can also be contacted via the BPS reporting portal at bps.portal.bm.
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