Police use CCTV footage to charge alleged offender after sentimental items stolen in Yakamia home burglary

Albany’s top cop says homes with security surveillance installed are becoming increasingly valuable in the attempt to prosecute offenders with crimes. CCTV footage was crucial in charging a 26-year-old woman with burglary offences, from an alleged break-in at a home in Yakamia last month. Police say that nearly $4000 of items were stolen from the home, including one sentimental ring worth $2500, at about 1.50pm on May 21. Albany officer-in-charge Sen. Sgt Carlos Correia said it will be alleged the offender had scoped out the street and gained entry to the targeted home through a window before rummaging through draws and cupboards during the burglary. Jewellery and cash were among the items stolen by the alleged offender who then fled the property. During investigations, police identified a suspect on CCTV footage from nearby homes and two days later she was seen jumping fences in an attempt to flee police. The accused was arrested and subsequently charged and a phone was also seized, linking her to the burglary in Yakamia. Bella-Shae Margaret Williams, 26, appeared in custody at Albany Magistrates Court on May 24. She was charged with one count of home burglary and commit and one count of stealing. Represented by lawyer Raymond Muir, Ms Williams made a bail application that was opposed by the prosecution. Police prosecutor Sgt Warrick Walker said there was a strong case given she had stolen property in her bag and made partial admissions in an interview and it was Ms Williams’ third strike for burglary. Magistrate Erin O’Donnell did grant Ms Williams bail with a $3000 personal undertaking and reporting conditions to Albany police station twice a week. Her matters were adjourned for legal advice to June 20. Sen. Sgt Correia said it was a pleasing result, with the sentimental items returned to the thankful victim. “This shows that the quick response and dedicated work by our officers has helped find the identity of the alleged offender,” he said. “It was strong investigation work by the team here and persistence paid off, given the sentimental value of what was stolen. “Again CCTV footage from the community has been pivotal in locating a suspect.” Sen. Sgt Correia encourages all homeowners to help protect themselves with security cameras. “I recommend households to look at installing CCTV,” Sen. Sgt Correia said. “It provides another aspect of security and we know that crooks often see cameras outside a home that is a deterrent to any possible break-in.”