Homes targeted by burglars have been given video doorbell cameras to help snare raiders and help victims feel safer.
Home security company Ring has provided Suffolk Police with 200 of the devices after they were proven to help catch prolific burglars in Suffolk.
It had already given 50 cameras to the force which had been installed at homes in Ipswich, which have helped to catch two repeat offenders in the past year.
It comes amid a rise in burglaries in the Ipswich Central area, from 25 incidents recorded in both November and December last year gradually rising to 42 in April 2018 and 37 the following month.
However burglaries in Ipswich West have fluctuated from highs of 58 in October last year and 51 in January, to 29 in both May and June.
Residents say the move has brought them “peace of mind”, with Suffolk Police head of investigations Det Supt Andy Smith saying: “It is really pleasing to hear that residents are feeling safer, thanks to the installation of a Ring Video Doorbell.
“We hope the installation of these additional devices will deter burglars and help bring more offenders to justice.
“We are extremely grateful for Ring’s support once again. The devices will be distributed to further victims of burglary and those who live in areas of Ipswich we know are more susceptible to this crime.
“We will also be accepting expressions of interest from members of the community that feel they or someone they know, would benefit from being a recipient of one of the devices.
“Once again, I would like to remind the community that burglary remains a priority for the force and by installing even more cameras, we are actively working to increase the number of offenders convicted for this type of crime.”
Police and crime commissioner for Suffolk, Tim Passmore, said: “This is a great initiative. Anything that improves the peace of mind of victims of burglary is really welcome.
“It’s excellent news that Ring has generously donated these doorbell cameras. I’m sure they will help residents feel safer and support the police in their mission to catch criminals, get them prosecuted and brought to justice.”
Those who want to register their interest for a doorbell camera should email doorbell@suffolk.pnn.police.uk
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