St Georges resident falls victim to distraction burglary
Police in Telford are investigating after a distraction burglary at an address on Stafford Street in St Georges yesterday.
At around 3.45pm, the victim - a 79-year-old lady - heard a knock at her front door. She got up to answer the door but, as she has mobility problems, before she got there an unknown man had entered her porch.
The man told the lady he was from the council and that he needed to check the water meter so the lady sat back down and let him go about his business.
The man entered the living room and the victim directed him into the kitchen.
A police spokesman said: "The man remained in the kitchen for a short time before coming back through the living room and then leaving the property through the front door.
"A short time later the victim realised that her purse - which had been in the living room - was not there anymore. She went into the kitchen and found it on the side but when she opened it she noticed that around £100 was missing from inside.
"It appears likely the unknown man picked up her purse in the living room and then stole the money before leaving the scene.
"The man who entered the lady's home is described as being white, around 5ft 8inches tall, aged in his 30s and as having a slim to medium build. He is also described as have brown wavy hair and as being smartly dressed.
"In light of this incident, we would once again like to warn people to be on their guard if an unknown caller comes to the door. Please make a point of checking their identification and only let them in once you have carried out every possible check to ensure they are a genuine caller.
"Residents, especially elderly or vulnerable people, are reminded to exercise extreme caution when opening the door to someone they do not know. Callers from utility companies will carry an identification badge which should be carefully checked, and genuine callers will not mind waiting outside while checks are made with the organisation they claim to represent.
"Meanwhile, anyone with information about this incident is asked to call police officers in Telford on 101 or 0300 333 3000, quoting incident number 463S 310113.
"Alternatively, please remember Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 if you'd rather leave information without identifying yourself.
"People should also be aware that a reward of up to £1000 may be available through Crimestoppers if information you pass on leads to the arrest and charge of someone in relation to a specific offence."
