Kilkenny crime stats: Huge drop in break-ins across city and county

There has been a 44% decrease in the number of residential burglaries in Kilkenny over the past 12 months, new figures reveal.

The statistics were published by local gardai to mark the publication of the third EU Wide Focus Day on Domestic Burglary.

The survey found almost 25% of residential burglaries in Kilkenny over the summer months involved entry through an unsecured door or window.

This dropped to less than 20% during the winter. And a third (33%) of residential burglaries in Kilkenny involve entry through a front door, according to the report.

Local Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Peter McConnon said: “An Garda Síochána is committed in the fight against domestic burglaries. This European Focus day on Burglary Prevention is an opportunity for us to remember the simple steps to secure our homes.

“Whether at home or going out, turn on some lights, use timer switches. Lock all doors and windows and use your house alarm. Store keys safely away from windows and letterboxes and record details of valuables. Don’t keep large cash amounts at home.”

Sgt McConnon had the following advice for people who intend to travel this year.

“Ask a trusted neighbour or family member to conduct frequent checks of the property at different times of the day to note any signs of trespassing or interference.

“Ensure the house alarm is set and check all doors and windows are secure. Install timers on internal lights and motion detectors on external lights to make the house appear occupied and offer natural surveillance of the property.

“Ensure that the building doesn’t look neglected. Cut the grass, trim hedges etc, and ask a neighbour to collect post.

“If you are going on holiday and your home is going to be vacant, be mindful of what you post on social media. Even if you have enabled strict privacy settings, your holiday plans could be shared with unscrupulous people,” Sgt McConnon added.