Criminal masterclass

Published 29 Jul 2009 09:00 0 Comments

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A POLICE crime reduction officer has been getting home security lessons from an expert - a convicted burglar.

Reading-based John McNicholas picked up some useful tips during a visit to Bullingdon prison in Oxfordshire.

He said: "It gave me a fresh insight into the thought processes of someone involved in this type of crime, and it was clear from talking to him that a lot of our crime reduction advice is definitely working.

"Knowing what these criminals are thinking and looking for can help us all make our property more secure."

Mr NcNicholas said his criminal tutor told him: "I don't choose any particular kind of car, but I tend to avoid new cars for radios and satnavs, as they are built in.

"I also look for tell-tale signs such as the sucker ring marks on the windscreen and power cable left out.

"I would not touch a car where the glove box was open and clearly empty - there wouldn't be any point.

"I base my decision to break in on the things left on display and the main things I look for are satnavs and audio equipment."

His home advice was: "Doors which are not double-locked have to be a gift.

"I am aware that people do things to fool us like putting on a radio when they are out and that definitely makes you think twice about breaking in.

"Letters and post on the doormat are a good indication that no-one is at home.

"I also reckon that a shed with tools available to use in the garden is good news."

This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 29 Jul 09

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