A man has been charged in connection with a burglary and two attempted burglaries in Rayleigh, following an extensive police investigation.
Officers launched enquiries after receiving reports of incidents in Marina Avenue between 18 and 19 December last year, near to the Travellers Joy pub. Since then, they have been working to track down the person responsible, following all available lines of enquiry.
Their efforts led to the arrest of 30-year-old Paul Chambers, of Prittlewell Street, Southend, last week. He has now been formally charged with multiple offences, including burglary, attempted burglary, taking a vehicle without consent, fraud by false representation, and possession of cannabis.
Chambers appeared at Southend Magistrates’ Court on 30 January and is next set to appear at Basildon Crown Court on 27 February.
Police: “Burglary is an invasive crime”
Detective Inspector Nick Brunton emphasised the serious nature of burglary and its impact on victims.
“We know the impact being burgled can have,” he said. “It’s a really invasive crime and can have a long-lasting impact on those affected. We treat it really seriously and attend more than 99 percent of all home burglaries.
“Across Essex, we saw more than 560 fewer home burglaries last year, down nearly 15 percent on the year before, as well as making more than 1,500 burglary arrests.”
The police continue to urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods.