A TEENAGER has been charged with 18 offences after a spate of burglaries and car thefts in Southampton.

Benjamin Cross, 18, from Bursledon, is accused of a number offences, including burglary, driving a motor vehicle without the owner's consent and assaulting a police officer.

He also faces charges of driving without a licence and insurance.

Cross, of The Acorns, Bursledon, is due to appear in court later today.

It follows a police investigation into a spate of burglaries in which burglars broke into homes before locating the homeowner’s keys in order to steal cars.

The incidents took place across Southampton and Eastleigh between May and July.

Police have so far arrested five teenagers, aged between 16 and 18.

Officers have charged one of the teenagers, Levi Allan, of Coxford Road, Southampton, with allowing to be carried in a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent.

He is due to appear at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on August 16.

Another 16-year-old boy from Southampton has been charged with burglary – but cannot be named for legal reasons.

Two others, a 16-year-old and an 18-year-old have been released but remain under investigation.

Police say they are continuing to investigate the burglaries.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: “We have increased patrols in Bitterne, Sholing, Portswood, Hedge End and West End which are the areas that have been affected and we will continue to pursue those responsible.

“Bitterne and Sholing are the most affected areas.

“We would ask the public to help prevent these crimes too by following our crime prevention advice.

“Remember to lock accessible windows and doors.

“Don’t leave your keys in the lock and place well away from the door.”