Ex Burglar Shares Home Security Rules

A former thief from Salford says he has changed and now offers practical tips to reduce break ins.

Ex Burglar Turns Advocate Shares Home Security Lessons

Darryl Kennedy, 62, from Salford, describes a life spent in burglary that spanned five decades and more than 20,000 homes. After a five‑year sentence, he says he has reformed and now works with police forces and universities to help people safeguard their properties. He acknowledges his past with regret and frames his new role as a warning and a guide for better security.

Kennedy offers a range of home security tips aimed at deterring burglars, especially in the summer when he says break‑ins peak. He argues that leaving ground‑floor doors and windows open signals opportunity, while suggesting that keeping upstairs windows open with a loud radio can imply that someone is at home. He also advocates visible measures such as laminated glass, composite doors, and even fake cameras to complicate a thief’s job. He adds practical reminders to avoid posting travel plans or addresses on luggage tags or social media.

The piece relies on a controversial voice to present practical crime prevention advice, raising questions about whether insights from a former criminal can responsibly guide public safety. Insider perspective can illuminate how burglars think and why certain cues may deter or invite a break‑in, but it also risks glamorizing or simplifying complex security failures. Readers should weigh Kennedy’s tips against professional security guidelines and evidence from crime researchers.

Ethically, publishing actionable tips from a once‑criminal figure invites scrutiny. The article could strengthen awareness for homeowners, yet it should accompany qualified cautions about the limits of DIY fixes and the importance of consulting accredited security professionals. The focus should be on safer practices and credible protections rather than sensational anecdotes.

Highlights

Safety comes from trusted guidance and practical safeguards that don’t rely on fear.