What to do in case of burglary

Statistics on burglaries in France

According to recent data, the situation of burglaries in France in 2023 is as follows:

Number of burglaries

In 2023, France recorded 217,100 burglaries of primary and secondary residences. This represents an increase of 3% compared to 2022.

Burglary frequency

• On average, there are around 595 burglaries per day in France.
• This is equivalent to one burglary every 2 minutes and 25 seconds.

Geographic distribution

• The national burglary rate is 5.9 per 1,000 homes.
• In the Paris metropolitan area, this rate rises to 7.8 burglaries per 1,000 homes.
• Large provincial cities have a rate of 7.6 per 1,000 homes.
• Rural areas are less affected, with 4.1 burglaries per 1,000 housing.

Types of residences targeted

Of the 217,100 burglaries recorded:

• 173,500 involved primary residences.
• 43,600 involved secondary residences.

Other important statistics

• 60% of burglaries were successful, while 40% failed.
• The average duration of a burglary is estimated at between 10 and 12 minutes.
• 54% of burglary victims filed a complaint in 2023.

Perpetrator profile

• 91% of those accused of burglary were men[3].
• Nearly half of the accused were aged between 18 and 29[3].
• Two-thirds of the accused were of French nationality[3].

These statistics show that burglaries remain a significant problem in France, with a slight increase in 2023. Urban areas are particularly affected, and it is important to remain vigilant and take appropriate security measures to protect your home.

What is the share of minors among perpetrators of burglaries in France?

According to the available data, the share of minors among perpetrators of burglaries in France is significant:

• 43% of home-jackings (violent burglaries with sequestration) solved in Île-de-France in 2023 involved at least one minor1.
• More generally, in 2023, one in five (20%) defendants in a crime case in Île-de-France was a minor, which represents a 10% increase compared to 20211.
• 64% of those charged with burglary are under 30 years old5. Although this figure also includes young adults, it suggests a high representation of minors and young adults.

It is important to note that these statistics relate specifically to solved cases or defendants, and not to all burglaries committed. In addition, the proportion may vary depending on the region and the type of burglaries.

What does French law say to combat burglaries, is it effective?

Here is an analysis of the effectiveness of French laws to combat burglaries:

Legal framework and sanctions

The French Penal Code provides for severe sanctions for burglaries:

• Up to 6 years in prison and 90 000 euros fine for a simple burglary.
• Up to 20 years in prison and 150,000 euros fine for a burglary with violence.

These penalties are intended to deter potential burglars. Attempted burglary is also punishable by the same penalties as the act itself.

Rate of elucidation and prosecution

However, the effectiveness of the judicial system is limited:

• Only 10% of burglaries are solved within 18 months of the incident.
• More than 80% of burglary cases do not have a perpetrator identified at the prosecutor's office stage.

These low rates of elucidation and prosecution reduce the deterrent effect of the penalties provided for by law.

Although French laws provide for severe penalties, their effectiveness in combating burglaries appears limited, particularly due to the low rates of elucidation and prosecution. The emphasis on prevention seems to reflect the limitations of the current repressive system.

The constant increase in the number of break-ins now requires citizens to protect themselves effectively, using active anti-burglary solutions to prevent burglaries before they happen.

What are the means of defense against burglars?

If you are present in your home when of a burglary, avoid any physical contact that could cause injuries or serious problems with the law.

Largely favor an active defense device that forces the intruders to flee, such as a fog generator, an anti-burglar sound bar, or a luminous disorientation device.

Do not believe that self-defense with a weapon or even manu militari is without consequences!

Self-defense against burglars is a complex subject and strictly regulated by law in France. Here are the main points to remember:

Conditions of self-defense

To be recognized, self-defense must meet several criteria

• The aggression must be real, current and unjustified
• The response must be Necessary (the only means of defense), Immediate (simultaneous with the aggression) and Proportionate to the seriousness of the attack

Special cases provided for by law

The law provides for two cases of presumption of self-defense

• To repel, at night, the breaking and entering of an inhabited place
• To defend against thefts or looting carried out with violence

In these situations, it is up to the prosecutor to prove that there was no legitimate defense.

Important Limitations

• The defense of property alone cannot justify voluntary manslaughter
• Pursuing a fleeing burglar is not considered self-defense
• The use of traps or automatic devices is prohibited

Practical advice

To protect yourself legally:

• Install visible warnings (stickers, signs)
• Use an audible alarm to warn the intruder
• Have a visual confirmation system of the intrusion

These steps make it possible to justify the state of necessity and the absence of alternatives in the event of the use of force.

It is strongly recommended to consult a specialized lawyer in the event of a situation of self-defense, because the assessment of the facts can be complex

If self-defense is not proven or recognized by the courts, the legal consequences can be significant:

Criminal liability

• The person will be considered criminally responsible for their actions
• They may be prosecuted and convicted for the offense committed (assault and battery, homicide, etc.)
• The penalties incurred will depend on the seriousness of the facts, and can be up to several years of imprisonment in the most serious cases.

Criminal sanctions

• The person may be convicted for the offense committed (assault and battery, homicide, etc.)
• The penalties incurred depend on the seriousness of the facts: In the most serious cases, such as voluntary homicide, the penalty can be up to 30 years of imprisonment criminal
• Other additional penalties may be added, such as a ban on carrying a weapon.

Civil liability

• The person may be ordered to pay damages to the victim or their family
• They will have to financially compensate for the harm caused.

Other possible consequences

• Inclusion in the criminal record
• Additional penalties such as the ban on carrying a weapon
• Impact on professional and personal life

It is therefore crucial to be fully aware of the conditions of self-defense and not to overstep this legal framework, under penalty of serious legal consequences. In case of doubt, it is strongly recommended to consult a specialized lawyer.

Prevent a burglary

The most judicious approach to a burglary remains prevention. Here are some effective tips to strengthen the security of your home and deter intrusions.

Secure access

• Install a reliable and certified lock, ideally an A2P multi-point lock.
• Reinforce the front door, windows and other openings with anti-burglary systems.
• Install electric roller shutters with anti-lift systems, preferably in aluminum.
• Equip accessible windows with bars or burglar-proof glazing.

Deter burglars

• Install a visible and effective alarm system.
• Install outdoor lighting with motion detectors.
• Place surveillance cameras or dummy cameras well visible.
• Display stickers indicating the presence of an alarm.

Adopt good reflexes

• Always lock doors and windows, even for a short absence.
• Do not hide your keys outside.
• Have your mail collected in the event of a prolonged absence.
• Avoid announcing your vacation dates on social networks.
• Put away objects that could facilitate an intrusion (ladder, tools).

Other measures

• Opt for programmable connected bulbs to simulate a presence.
• Install a defensive hedge with thorny plants around your property.
• Register for the "Opération Tranquillité Vacances" program with the police or gendarmerie.
• Leave visible signs of life: a car in the driveway, a toy in the garden or laundry on a clothes horse can deter a burglar.
• Ask a trusted neighbour to collect your mail and keep an eye on your home.
• Mark and record your valuables.

Opt for an anti-burglary fog generator

The anti-burglary fog generator is a technology that is still little known but extremely effective. During an intrusion, it diffuses a thick opaque smoke, making it impossible to locate objects in the room. This device is a useful addition to an alarm, by protecting particularly sensitive areas of your home or premises.

What to do in the event of a burglary

Despite all your precautions, you may be the victim of a burglary. Here are the actions to take to react appropriately.

Do not touch anything

When you notice a burglary, do not touch anything and do not put anything away13. This will allow the police to collect the clues and fingerprints needed for the investigation.

Contact the police immediately

Call the police or the gendarmerie by dialing 17. They will come and establish the facts and carry out the initial surveys.

Notify your insurance

Contact your insurer quickly, generally within 48 hours, to report the loss. They will tell you what steps to take for compensation.

File a complaint

Go to the police station or the gendarmerie to file a complaint within 48 hours. Bring an ID and a list of stolen items.

Oppose your means of payment

If means of payment have been stolen (checkbook, bank card), contact your bank immediately to oppose it.

Secure your home

Have forced access repaired quickly (door, window) and change the locks. If possible, reinforce the security of your home.

Prepare your compensation file

Make a precise list of the stolen items with their estimated value. Gather all possible supporting documents (invoices, photos, etc.) for your insurance.

By following these steps, you will be able to best manage this difficult situation and facilitate the administrative procedures that will follow.

How to make an exhaustive list of the stolen items to your insurance?

To make an exhaustive list of the stolen items after a burglary, here are the steps to follow:

• Proceed room by room methodically6. Inspect each room carefully, including nooks and crannies, the basement and the attic.
• Immediately note any missing items, even items that seem trivial or of little value.
• Check the contents of each piece of furniture, especially those where you stored valuable items (jewelry, bags, designer clothes, etc.).
• For children's/teenagers' rooms, do a first tour alone and then a second with them.
• Be as precise as possible in your descriptions. For electronics, note the brand, model, color, and especially the serial number.
• For jewelry, indicate the type (ring, chain, etc.), the metal, the weight if possible, and any special features.
• Try to estimate the value of each item and its approximate purchase date.
• Don't forget to check your important documents (passports, identity cards, etc.).
• If possible, attach to your list proof of purchase, invoices, or photos of the stolen items.
• Make several copies of this list: one for you, one for the insurance company, and one for the authorities.

This detailed list will be crucial for your insurance report and can help investigators find your goods.

How to estimate the value of stolen items without documents?

To estimate the value of stolen items without documents, here are some methods to consider:

• A precise description (make, model, characteristics)
• The approximate date of purchase
• The purchase price if you remember it

Search for similar items online to get an idea of ​​current prices :

• Check out auction sites like leboncoin.fr or specialized sites
• Look at auction results on sites like drouot.com

For valuable items like jewelry or works of art:

• Try to find photos where you are wearing the jewelry
• Note down any particularities you remember (weight, size of stones, etc.)
• Ask an expert (jeweler, antique dealer) for help to estimate the value

For electronic items, look for prices of equivalent new models and apply a discount for wear

Use free online estimation services offered by some specialized sites

If possible, ask an auctioneer for advice who can give you a price range, even without seeing the items

For inherited items, try to find a notarized inventory if it exists

Gather any other documents that can prove the existence of the items: photos, videos, bank statements showing purchases, etc.

The important thing is to provide as much information as possible to your insurance, even without invoices. The more specific you are in your descriptions, the more likely you are to get fair compensation

How to overcome the trauma of a burglary?

Here are some tips for overcoming the trauma of a burglary:

Understanding the psychological impact

A burglary can cause significant emotional shock, even psychological trauma. Common reactions include:

• Feelings of insecurity and vulnerability
• Anxiety and sleep disturbances
• Hypervigilance and distrust of others
• Intrusive thoughts about the event
• A feeling of violation of one's privacy

Take care of yourself

• Reestablish a daily routine quickly (regular hours, usual activities)
• Express your emotions and talk about them to your loved ones
• Practice relaxing activities (meditation, sport, etc.)
• Avoid isolation and maintain your social relationships

Strengthen home security

Do not hesitate to:

• Talk to your loved ones to vent your emotions
• Contact a victim support association
• Consult a psychologist if the symptoms persist

Free helplines also exist, such as 116 006

Planning for the future

Gradually, try to:

• Regain confidence in yourself and your environment
• Focus on the present rather than ruminating on the event
• Find activities that are a source of pleasure

With time and support, it is possible to overcome this trauma. Do not hesitate to consult if the difficulties persist.