A TEENAGER suspected of breaking into three houses in the same night has appeared in court.

The 17-year-old stands accused of three burglaries in the South Moor area of Stanley on Saturday, January 8.

Some of the stolen property has since been located.

The suspect, who is from Chester-le-Street, but cannot be identified for legal reasons, appeared at Newton Aycliffe Youth Court on Thursday and was granted conditional bail.

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A spokesman for Durham Constabulary said: “All too often people are making their homes attractive to burglars and thieves by leaving them unlocked or in darkness during the winter months.

“However, a few simple steps are all it takes to reduce this risk and protect yourself from becoming a victim of crime.”

Police advice to help prevent burglaries:

• Lock all windows and doors – even if you’re at home.

• A well-lit home gives the impression someone is in.

• Leave a light on or use timer switches so lights come on when it gets dark.

• Don’t leave valuables on show.

• Don’t leave your house and vehicle keys in the lock or on a side table in view of a window, making it easy for a thief to fish them through your letterbox.

• Don’t leave curtains closed during the day, only in the evening and overnight.

• If you have a house alarm, use it.

• Contact your local neighbourhood police team if you see anything suspicious in your area.

Anyone with concerns can call police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

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