Police in Norwich are stepping up high visibility patrols and urging local residents to come forward with information after recent acts of criminal damage.

Over the past week there have been three incidents where windows have been smashed at properties in the Earlham, Larkman and Marlpit area of the city:

• The first incident happened just after midnight on Thursday 5 August on Irstead Road.
• The second incident happened between 10am and 12pm on Saturday 7 August on Rydal Close.
• The third incident happened between 1pm and 4pm on Monday 9 August on George Fox Way.

There has also been a case of arson where a wheelie bin was set on fire on Crummock Road on Sunday 8 August.

Temporary Inspector Chris Brooks from Earlham, Larkman and Marlpit Safer Neighourhood Team said “We would like to reassure the community we are investigating all of these incidents and focusing our patrols at key times targeting those responsible.  We have intelligence suggesting that youths may be committing some of the crimes in the area and we would like to reiterate that we will deal with anyone caught robustly.

“Smashing windows of other people’s property can be costly, causing a great inconvenience as well as being a frightening experience, especially for elderly residents.  We would ask that local people contact the police if they see anyone acting suspiciously.”

To report suspicions to police or to speak to a member of Earlham, Larkman and Marlpit SNT about any community issue call 0845 456 4567 or email SNTNorthEarlham@norfolk.pnn.police.uk.