Release Date: 14/05/2008
A warning has gone out to residents to be on their guard in the battle against bogus-caller burglars following six incidents of “distraction burglary” in the borough in the last fortnight.
Residents have been urged to be vigilant and always check for identification.
In several incidents, the burglars posed as water board officials claiming there was a problem in adjoining premises and they needed to check the resident’s supply.
The second method involved a caller claiming to have been cleaning windows next door and to have damaged one of the victim’s windows.
In all cases, an accomplice entered the property while the elderly occupier was distracted and stole property.
Richmond Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Sir David Williams, said:
“These are particularly callous crimes and, as a general rule, not that common in this borough.
“But it is very important that all residents remain vigilant when answering the door to strangers, ask for identification and, if in any doubt whatever, don’t let them in.”
Supt Jim Davis of Richmond Police said: “Elderly residents are clearly vulnerable to this heartless crime and must take care. We will do all that we can, by whatever methods, to bring the culprits to justice and build on our recent successes.”
For crime prevention advice call the Community Safety Partnership on 020 8891 7777 or visit www.crimereduction.homeoffice.gov.uk