ID warning after Darlington bin bags slashed
Darlington residents have been warned of the dangers of putting their rubbish out for collection too early following a spate of bag slashings.
The council believes people looking for documents containing personal details, which could then be used in identity fraud, are responsible.
All the attacks have happened in back lanes in the early hours.
The council has also urged people to shred all personal documents before throwing them away.
Bill Dixon, Darlington Council's cabinet member for neighbourhood services and community safety, said: "These bag slashers not only create a mess by strewing rubbish across the street, they are also looking for people's personal details which can lead to identity theft.
"They operate at night and so residents should not put their refuse out until the morning of collection.
"This will ensure all refuse can be collected but black bags are not left for long period of time on pavements and in back lanes.
"I would also urge people to shred all personal documents before throwing them away."