POLICE officers investigating multiple reports of burglaries and thefts in South Ockendon and neighbouring Romford have secured 26 charges for offences against 16 victims.

A statement from Essex Police says: "We were made aware of reports of burglaries, thefts from vehicles and shops, and fraud on 19 December – all incidents taking place in close proximity to one another.

"In one burglary, in Orchard Road, South Ockendon, the victim reported his keys had been taken and a vehicle stolen from outside his address.

"A handbag containing bank cards was also taken, with the cards fraudulently used that same night.

"Our officers carried out some swift work to identify persons of interest to the investigation.

On 20 December, Metropolitan Police colleagues made an arrest in the Harold Hill area, recovering a stolen vehicle, a knife and other stolen goods including bank cards.

"Steven Crispin, 35, of Bridgwater Road, Romford, has since been charged with:

• Four counts of burglary.
• Seven counts of theft of a motor vehicle.
• Five counts of vehicle interference.
• Four counts of theft from a motor vehicle.
• One count of attempted theft from a motor vehicle.
• Two counts of fraud by false representation.
• One count of shoplifting.
• One count of theft.
• One count of possession of a knife in a public place.

He is due to appear at Southend Magistrates' Court tomorrow (Friday, 22 December).

Chief Inspector Tony Atkin, Thurrock district commander, said: "This was fast-paced and effective police work, getting dozens of suspected offences to the point of charge at an early stage.

"Tackling theft of property, particularly theft from and theft of motor vehicles, as well as burglary are key priorities for us, both in how we seek to keep the public safe and in reassurance."

DCI Alan Blakesley, operational lead on tackling car thefts across Essex, added: "Vehicle theft is becoming an increasingly complex issue, but we continue to lead the way on tackling this problem through focused, concerted efforts by our Roads Policing, Stolen Vehicle Investigation Unit and intelligence officer teams.

"They work with local and community policing teams to disrupt and apprehend the individuals behind this criminality.

"We work with other forces and businesses to identify and frustrate the routes used for disposing of stolen vehicles or parts, disseminate intelligence and where possible, pursue offenders across borders."