New data revealed South Yorkshire has the highest burglary crime rate in England and Wales, with eight burglary crimes per year per 1000 workday people as of January 2024.
The analytics website Plumpot shows there were nearly 11,000 reports of burglary in 2023.
Matt Stokes, 20, a student whose house in Commonside, Crookesmoore, was burgled, said: “When we found out, we were in a state of shock. It feels like a violation when you realise someone’s been in your house. We all felt confused and were all emotional and very vulnerable.
“The police didn’t come until the next morning. That was pretty upsetting. They didn’t find anything, so they closed the case, but it took them a while to get here in the first place. So, nothing’s been done with it.”
Detective Chief Inspector Thomas Bright, DCI lead for burglary, said: “Unfortunately, we know that anyone can become a victim of burglary. Criminals do not care who their target is, they look for easy opportunities to slip away without being noticed.
“In November last year, we launched a force-wide neighbourhood crime campaign, sharing advice on what everyone can do to become less of a target to burglars. This included using a light timer switch if you won’t be home before dark, ensuring all your side gates, doors and windows are locked when you leave home, and fitting a good quality security alarm system.”
Despite having the highest burglary rate in England and Wales, South Yorkshire burglary incidents have dropped by 4.7% when compared to data taken from January to December 2023.
“Doncaster launched Operation Castle in March 2023, a dedicated burglary operation that has reduced burglary significantly.
“Doncaster’s burglary rates in September and October 2023 were the lowest in the last five years. We are now looking at how we can adapt this approach across South Yorkshire.”
If you have any concerns or see any suspicious behaviour, South Yorkshire Police are encouraging residents to report it to them via their online portal, calling 101 or speaking to a police officer.