Warning After Bogus Doorstep Caller Steals Cash and Jewellery
Police are urging people to be vigilant if an unexpected visitor knocks on their door after three properties were targeted by a distraction burglar in the space of an hour.
Three properties in the Alfreton area, all with elderly residents, were targeted between 5pm and 6pm this evening.
The offender claimed to be visiting properties to check the water and asked the residents to stand next to the tap while he checked the house.
Jewellery was stolen from a flat in Pentrich Road, Swanwick, while cash was stolen from one of two flats that were burgled in Firs Garden, Alfreton.
All three victims were left shaken but unharmed.
The offender was white, about 5ft 10ins, of skinny build and was wearing a navy peaked cap, a checked shirt, denim jeans and was wearing a face mask.
Anyone who recognises the man from that description, saw him in the area, or knows what vehicle he may have been using, should contact us using one of the below methods.
We are also taking this opportunity to ask that people remind elderly or vulnerable relatives about the following doorstep safety advice:
LOCK - keep your front and back doors locked, even when at home
STOP - are you expecting anyone?
CHAIN - if you decide to open the door, put the chain on first
CHECK - ask for the caller's ID and check it by phone
- Encourage older and more vulnerable people to get into the habit of always locking their doors and by using a door chain or spy-hole.
- Telephone a neighbour, or a nearby friend, and ask them to come along to help check out the caller before you open the door to them.
- Insist on checking the identity of the caller. If they are genuine, they will not mind waiting or returning later. Do not use any telephone numbers provided by the caller as they may be bogus.
- Don't keep large quantities of cash at home; put it in the bank or post office where it is safe.
- Remember, it is not rude to refuse to let a stranger into your home.
You can contact us via the following methods:
- Facebook – send us a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary
- Twitter – direct message our contact centre on @DerPolContact
- Website – complete the online contact form www.derbyshire.police.uk/Contact-Us.
- Phone – call us on 101.
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