Home security cameras have been stolen and tampered with in a York street.
And the face of one of the suspected thieves was caught on camera as he took CCTV equipment from the doorway of a house in Grosvenor Terrace off Bootham.
It happened around 1.50am on Wednesday, 21 August.
Grosvenor Terrace, York
Another camera caught two suspects in the act of stealing another door-mounted security camera just a few doors away.
Longfield Terrace, on the other side of Bootham, has also been targeted.
The Grosvenor Terrace residents’ association have now put alternative extra security measures in place.
One resident told YorkMix: “Several neighbours have reported that their door security cameras have been stolen over the last few days.
“This might be just theft of those bits of equipment – but we have been warned by security professionals that it could be a preliminary action ahead of planned burglaries or thefts.
“As a result, we have taken action to increase security. There was a spate of doorstep thefts earlier in the year, when parcels and other deliveries went missing. Thanks to doorbell camera footage, the police were able to take action.
“We are hoping these recent images will have the same effect.
“This kind of activity is very upsetting for all residents, and there are other parts of the greater Clifton area which have reported suspicious activity recently.”
York police are investigating. PC Fiona Wilding said: “On 21 August 2024, in the early hours of the morning from 1am, a male has tampered with three security cameras to properties in the area. The suspect male has also stolen parts of the security cameras.
“Police are aware of targeted properties on Longfield Terrace and Grosvenor Terrace but there may be more.”
One suspect is described as
- a white male
- aged about 20-40 years old
- wearing dark trousers with a reflective strip around the lower legs
- a khaki green jacket
- and carrying a dark coloured osprey rucksack.
PC Wilding asked anyone who can help the investigation to contact her on the numbers below.
She added: “Please be vigilant and ensure windows and doors are secure when the property is empty and during the night and a reminder to check the settings/recordings on any CCTV/ ring door bell cameras to ensure they are working.”
How to help the police
- Call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask for PC 1864 Fiona Wilding
- Email PC Wilding here
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the website
- Quote reference number 12240151992