Distraction Burglars Target Elderly Shropshire Couple

Police in Shropshire have repeated warnings about bogus callers tricking their way into the homes of elderly people.

The warning follows a distraction burglary at the home of an elderly couple at St Martins, near Oswestry.

Four people distracted an 85-year-old resident, sneaked into the home and carried out a search while she was kept pre-occupied.  When she became suspicious they fled with a quantity of cash.

Detective Constable Mal Normandin, the investigating officer, said the incident happened at around 11.50am yesterday when a young man called at the home in Church Lane.

"He said he had lost his football in the back garden and persuaded the lady to come out to help search for it.   While outside, his three accomplices sneaked inside unseen and carried out a search.

"The lady became suspicious and told the caller to leave and at that point, spotted the other three running off."

He said police were anxious to hear from anyone who may have seen the four people before or after the burglary.  "They were seen jumping over the wall which surrounds the church and probably had a car parked up a short distance away from Church Lane."

DC Normandin said the caller was described as white, in his late teens or early twenties, of slim build, about 5ft 7ins tall, with short dark hair which appeared neat and had a pale slim face.  One of the other three was said to have distinctive ginger hair.

"We need people to contact the police immediately if they saw anything in that area between 11am and 12.30pm yesterday which might be connected."

He also reminded people to be on their guard against distraction burglars.  "They target elderly people, pretending to be from the council or a utility company or making up a story designed to distract the occupants to get inside.

"The golden rule is never to let strangers inside your home and to keep the door shut.  If you have any concerns or are suspicious do not hesitate to contact the police immediately."

Information should be forwarded to Oswestry police station by dialling 101 or by contacting the anonymous Crimestoppers number, 0800 555 111.

Issued: Wednesday, 16 November 2011