Appeal for information following distraction burglary in Freshwater

Do you recognise this man?

 

We would like to speak to him in connection with a distraction burglary in which a 95-year-old woman had money taken from her house in Freshwater.

 

Sometime between midday and 1pm on Sunday 1 August, the victim was at home on Copse Lane when a man unknown to her walked into her house uninvited. He then left the address with cash from her purse.

 

We've been following a number of lines of enquiry and now have this CCTV image that we can release to the public. We are appealing to anyone who may recognise the man in the image.

 

If you saw him in the area at the time specified or know who he is, please call 101 quoting 44210305357 or go online and submit information via this link: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report

 

We’d like to take this opportunity to remind you of the following crime prevention advice:

 

• Always use the door chain when answering the door. If you are not sure do not open the door.
• Do not keep substantial sums of money in the home.
  
  
• Always keep front and back doors locked.
  
  
• Always check the credentials of unknown callers. Do not phone the number on the ID card, use a phone book or bill.
  
  
• Never employ cold-calling doorstep traders or engage with cold callers on the phone.
  
  
• LOCK STOP CHAIN and check – if unsure do not open the door.
  
  
• Report any suspicious callers or activity to the police immediately.
  
  
• Keep an eye on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, friends and family.
  
  
• Encourage residents to call 101 to advise of any unexpected callers – this gives Police a better chance at building a picture of where potential criminals are operating.

 

Always report any suspicious caller to your home to the police on 101.

 

In an emergency, or if a crime is in progress, call 999.