Burglaries on homes are more rife than at any point this century, new crime figures show.

Police recorded 213 residential burglaries in April, May and June, a rise of six percent on the same period in 2006 — the fourth consecutive year in which the number has increased.

Between 2000 and 2004, the statistic had consistently hovered around the 100 mark.

The quarterly report also shows attempted burglaries have shot up to 43, compared with a corresponding figure of just seven in 2006.

Store burglaries have doubled from 19 to 38; although school burglaries fell from 20 to five; and office burglaries from 40 to ten.

The total burglary offences for the quarter was 322, down marginally from last year's 325, but significantly higher than at any other point since 2000. Three years ago, it was just 183.

Police say serial offenders are a major issue with burglaries, with many selling stolen goods to feed their drug addictions.

Assistant Commissioner Carlton Adams told a press conference on Thursday that, of 14 people arrested for burglary between April and June, 12 had previous convictions for burglary and other acts of dishonesty.

He said four of those were jailed for 12 months, one received a suspended 18-month sentence, while another was fined $500. Cases involving the other offenders are due before the courts.

"It is once again apparent recidivists individuals are again responsible for a significant amount of crime in this category," said Mr. Adams.

"While it is well recognised that drugs are a contributing factor to the commission of these offences, what is not as well known is that much of the property stolen during burglary offences goes unrecovered, which suggests that segments of the community are contributing to the problem through the purchase of stolen goods at lesser prices than those which would be paid in the shops.

"I would strongly advise those persons who persist in purchasing stolen goods that they too are committing an offence for which they can be prosecuted."

Earlier this month, Police issued a warning about thieves breaking into homes through air conditioning units. They reminded residents to ensure their units are securely fitted, and to always ask for identification from anyone who calls at door claiming to be from Police, Fire, Belco or other organisations.

A Bermuda Police Service spokesman issued further advice yesterday, saying: "Police would like to advise homeowners and residents that, in the light of the recent increase in burglaries, they should always make sure that they leave their homes secure before leaving the premises unattended.

"In particular, they should check to make sure that all windows and doors are locked and that their air conditioning units are securely fitted to the house.

"For more information on how to secure your home, please visit Bermuda Police Service's website at www.bermudapolice.bm."

The Royal Gazette reported yesterday how there were 71 incidents of violent crime for the quarter, an increase of nine percent on the same period in 2006.

Officers have now released a full report showing how the figure is roughly in line with previous years, with 87 recorded in the second quarter of 2005; and totals between 57 and 72 recorded each year since 2000.

There were 23 incidents of wounding, the highest number since 2001; while there were eight sexual assaults, down from 15 last year and 12 in 2005.

Witnesses to crimes should telephone Police on 299-4239, or the anonymous Crime Stoppers hotline on 1-800-623-8477.