Teenagers arrested following Darlington burglaries

Two teenage boys have been arrested following several burglaries and attempted burglaries in Darlington.

In the early hours of Monday morning (July 27), police received a number of reports of people trying door handles of cars and properties predominately in the Haughton area.

A Seat was also stolen from a house near Haughton Academy, while a Tesla and Mercedes were taken from a house in the Hummersknott area.

The Mercedes was spotted being driven later that day in the Eastbourne area and a pursuit was authorised.

Two boys, aged 13 and 16, were arrested in connection with the incidents and brought into police custody.

The 13-year-old admitted to being involved in the burglaries and has been referred to Darlington’s Youth Offending Team, who will work with him to address his behaviour and prevent it from escalating further.

The 16-year-old has been released on bail while further enquiries are carried out.

Inspector David Littlefair, from Darlington Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “It is extremely concerning to see a child as young as 13 actively going out in the early hours and being involved in the stealing of cars. I am disgusted by this kind of criminal behaviour.

“I would encourage parents or guardians to take more responsibility for their children and know where they are, especially during the hours of darkness, to prevent serious criminal behaviour such as this happening again.

“We’d strongly advise all residents to make their homes and property as secure as possible to try and prevent opportunistic thefts.

“Please make sure you lock your door and shut your windows on a night, or when you are leaving your house. 

“Lock your vehicles and store the keys securely and out of sight, away from windows, or doors where thieves can see them. 

“If you have a garage, use it and consider installing CCTV cameras and security lighting to the front and back of your home.”