Distraction burglary: Warning and advice

Distraction burglary: Warning and advice

Dear Resident

We are urging residents to be vigilant after a possible attempt at a distraction burglary in St Georges.

The victim was visited by a man described as an older gentleman that was well dressed. They claimed to be looking to buy gold or costume jewelry for cash. On this occasion no items were stolen but the description of the man and what he was saying is similar to a previous burglary in Muxton.

We have some simple tips to follow which can minimise risk to a distraction burglary and how to deal with ‘cold callers’ at the doorstep:

If someone knocks on your door, check who it is by looking through a window or peep-hole.

If it’s not someone you know and trust, or a business caller who has made a pre-arranged appointment – DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR! This advice applies regardless of whatever uniform the caller appears to be wearing, the ID card they are carrying or however urgent their business claims to be.

Tell unexpected business callers to leave and come back later at an agreed time when you have someone else with you.

In the meantime, check their credentials by calling the organisation they claim to represent. Do so by searching the company name and number online. As any number they might have given you could be for an accomplice of a potential offender.

Report suspicious activity to the police by calling 101 or going online at www.westmercia.police.uk/report -No matter how small it may seem, your information may help with investigations and prevent legitimate scammers from committing a crime.

Do not be worried about offending callers at your door if they are genuine they will understand you being cautious, if you feel rushed or pressured do not answer the door.

If you aren’t comfortable contacting us directly, you can pass on information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org

If you ever feel at risk, or a crime is in progress, please always dial 999.

Thank you for your help. It is only by the police and the public working together that we can prevent and detect crime.

Kind regards,

PCSO Hayley Smith

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Message Sent By
Hayley Smith
(Police Community Support Officer, West Mercia Police, St. Georges, Priorslee & Muxton)