Colchester New Town and the Hythe targeted by crooks

Colchester councillor Lee Scordis said criminal activity is rife in the Hythe and New Town as crooks target people’s property.

He revealed one resident was left shaken up after their front door was tried by a brazen would-be thief on Tuesday evening.

The disturbing attempts have been more frequent in recent weeks as other residents have stepped forward to report incidents.

Aerial view - the Hythe

Mr Scordis stated he has noted crooks are also trying their luck with car doors, with most crimes taking place between 1am and 3am.

“If the doors are unlocked then they have been looting the car and throwing the contents inside down the street,” he said.

“The community is aware of who one of the perpetrators is and people are working to find them.”

Addressing this suspect, the councillor said: “We recommend you stop before you are caught and brought to justice.”

He added: “I am disappointed by the lack of presence from the police, especially considering evidence has been sent of a possible perpetrator”.

An Essex Police spokeswoman stated Colchester’s community policing team is “working closely” with several agencies exploring ways of addressing the crimes.

Councillor - Lee Scordis in the Hythe

She said: “We understand how inconvenient and frustrating this sort of crime is and we are committed to arresting and prosecuting anyone who is carrying out these offences.

“We would urge anyone who has been a victim to report the crime to us by submitting a report on our website or by using our online live chat service.”

Mr Scordis echoed this request, imploring residents to keep on reporting incidents to the police so officers can prioritise patrols accordingly.

Sharing positive news, the councillor added anti-social behaviour which had plagued New Town has died down since the conclusion of the summer holidays.

He explained the focus is now on bringing a stop to the low-level crime now impacting the area and ensuring those responsible face the music.