February 3, 2010
Distraction Burglary Bromham – Bogus Police Officers
Detectives in the county are once again warning elderly residents to be vigilant after another burglary in which a 97 year old woman was conned by men pretending to be police officers.
The incident happened in Godwin Way, Bromham, yesterday (Tuesday 2 Feb) evening between 8.35pm and 9pm. The woman was in her house when the two men, dressed in smart dark clothing and white shirts, knocked at the front door and said they were police officers. They claimed they had arrested two boys who were in her back garden and had the pair held in their car.
They said they needed to check that the boys had not stolen any valuables from her and asked to be shown where any valuable items were kept. One man distracted her by taking her round the house checking her locks while the other took the opportunity to search the property and stole £100 which she had shown them in her purse.
Det Con Jason Wheeler, who is already dealing with two similar burglaries in the area, is anxious to make sure no more elderly people are targeted in this way.
“Unfortunately, these men are extremely plausible and use this excuse of helping the police to get into the homes of people who may well otherwise be suspicious of letting unexpected callers into their home, especially at night,” he said.
“This incident may well be connected to the other two I’m working on, and colleagues in Thames Valley are investigating seven of these same offences which have happened recently. It’s really important that you check the identity of anyone who calls at your home wanting to gain entry for whatever reason.
“Police officers always carry identification with them; you should ask to see it, then make them wait outside while you telephone the main control room on 01234 841212, who will be happy to verify that they are genuine callers,” said Det Con Wheeler.
“In the meantime, if there was anyone in the vicinity of Godwin Close who saw these men, or any vehicle they were using at the time, I would like to hear from them, or anyone else who has any information about this type of appalling crime,” he said. Both men were white.
Anyone who can help should contact Det Con Wheeler on 01234 275397, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
