Arrest made following off-campus burglaries

North Yorkshire PoliceA 37-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a spate of burglaries at off-campus University accommodation.

The unnamed suspect was detained by police after four properties in Wolsley Street, Willis Street, St Nicholas Crescent and Merchant Way were broken into on Sunday night where hundreds of pounds worth of computers, games consoles and smart phones were stolen.

Officers investigating the robberies arrested and questioned the local man at 8.20pm on Monday.

He was later released on bail while the investigation continues.

Police will now work with the University to raise awareness about crime prevention after it emerged that entry to the properties had been gained through unlocked doors.

Inspector Jo Brooksbank, of the York Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “North Yorkshire Police is working very closely with the University of York and York St John University to raise awareness about basic crime prevention amongst the student community.

“As well as regular patrols and meetings at both universities, we are also sending a letter to the students to ensure our crime and safety messages sink in.

“It is vital that the students themselves take responsibility for securing their accommodation and possessions at all times.

“Even just taking some simple steps such as locking doors, closing windows and keeping expensive equipment out of sight, will go along way to keep opportunistic criminals away.”

Students can gain further tips and information on keeping themselves and their possessions safe at university by downloading a new app, designed and launched by the North Yorkshire police force. This can be obtained for free at http://uni.nyp.mobi.