Burglars monitored in bid to halt Christmas break-ins

Police officers in Essex are to follow known offenders every day in the run-up to Christmas in a bid to prevent them committing burglaries.

Officers have delivered letters to the offenders explaining that they will observed, filmed and offered support from the Drugs Intervention Programme.

They have targeted people in Basildon who have previously been convicted for offences, including burglary.

Essex police said three people had already been arrested in the operation.

Sgt Paul Costin said: "If we follow these individuals, they cannot commit any crime. It really is that simple.

"Crimes such as burglary can have an awful impact on the victim's life, so it is our duty to do all we can to stop those we believe may be responsible from causing misery to other people's lives."