Danish cops recruit robbers to stem burglaries

[February 17, 2012]  COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) -- What to do when burglaries get out of hand?

In Denmark, police think they might have the answer: Turn to the experts themselves, the housebreakers.

Northern Zealand police spokesman Finn Bernth Andersen says burglars caught red-handed in the district will be asked to participate in an anonymous questionnaire about their profession.

The region, which has seen a 60 percent annual surge in break-ins in some areas, will ask robbers questions about their typical targets, motives and disposal methods for stolen goods.

Bernth Andersen conceded that police are not sure of the project's success but said Thursday "we'll do anything we can to lower the number (of burglaries)."

The project is planned to last a few months.

[Associated Press]

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.