Coventry police officers cause a stir after walking into unlocked homes and tweeting pictures

Monday, 25 January 2016 13:00

One street checked by officers had three consecutive houses left insecure

Police in Coventry have generated controversy after walking into unlocked homes around the city and tweeting pictures.

They’re doing it to warn people about how easy it can be for burglars but, as you can imagine, not everyone thinks it’s a good idea – with questions arising over whether it’s legal, ethical or amounts to ‘victim blaming’.

Both police officers and PCSOs have been involved in the scheme which sees them actively visiting homes and trying to enter through the front door, gates or communal areas. They also give advice where needed.

Another house left open, owner advised, that's 6 in half hour!! Stop making life easy for thieves #stoleninseconds pic.twitter.com/9dSPrPfuRi
— Cov City Police (@Covcitypolice) January 22, 2016

Coventry Police say they were highlighting how easy it can be for burglars to enter without breaking in. It's caused quite a stir on Twitter, leading to many people questioning the legal and ethical issues.

@Covcitypolice Warrant issues aside - haven't you just told thieves where they can find unlocked doors with this?
— Ally (@Chilari) January 24, 2016

But there were tweets of support for the patrol officers.

@Covcitypolice To all those criticising. Police have a duty to investigate insecure premises. Perhaps they should leave it to get burgled?
— Warren David (@Warren_Dempster) January 24, 2016

Officers also tweeted pictures to remind people to check gates at the side and rear of properties. For those homes that were left unlocked, officers were on hand to give advice about locking doors and keeping safe.