Cars stolen from drives after burglars swipe keys from Walsall homes

Between 10pm in Tuesday and 6am on Wednesday an intruder climbed through a conservatory window at a home in Alderley Crescent, Coalpool. The offender drove off in a Mercedes after stealing the keys.

Then between 11pm Wednesday and 6.17am Thursday, a burglar broke in to a home in Princes Avenue.

Once inside they swiped keys to a Mercedes and a Volvo, both of which were stolen.

In that incident the prowler broke in by snapping the lock on patio doors, which as the Express & Star revealed this week is becoming burglars’ ‘method of choice’ when forcing entry to homes.

It can take a few minutes and suspects are now targeting homes at night while residents are thought to be in bed because the technique can be performed quietly.

Kevin Pitt, police, engagement and consultation officer in Walsall, said: “If you haven’t already done so, consider upgrading your home security with items such as anti-snap locks on UPVC doors, and additional locking devices on patio doors. If you have an intruder alarm, part-set it to protect downstairs or living areas when you’re in bed.”