Cruel crook made off with OAP’s jewellery after asking for a glass of water in her home

Cops search for con artist who stole from 82-year-old

A cruel con artist tricked her way into a Paisley pensioner’s home to steal her jewellery box.

The 82-year-old woman allowed the suspect in after she asked for a glass of water.

Police say the shaken victim discovered her jewellery box was missing from her Abbey Place home after the woman left.

The incident happened at around noon on Friday, July 19 but was only reported this week.

It’s understood the bogus caller first buzzed to say she was delivering a free paper before making her way to the pensioner’s flat and asking for a drink.

The kindly householder let her inside and got her a glass of water.

However, when her back was turned the callous creep helped herself to the woman’s jewellery.

Police describe the suspect caller as black and speaking in broken English.

The victim was unhurt during the incident.

Inspector Tracy Harkins from Paisley’s community policing team appealed for information and urged people to be vigilant.

She said: “It is despicable to prey on a vulnerable pensioner by taking advantage of her kindness in this way.

“I would urge people to think back to the time of the incident and consider if they saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area.

“If you think you might have seen something, please do get in touch so we can identify the culprit or culprits.”

She added: “I would also urge people to be vigilant of cold callers and people turning up at your door.

“Always check identification of the person and do not let them over the threshold.

“Rarely wi l l reputable companies cold call at your door.

“If a person claims to be from a reputable company and presents ID, but you are still in doubt, you can call the company to verify they are who they say they are.

“Do not let them over the threshold while you do this.

“And if you are still uncertain or feel threatened call the police on 101.

“Avoid paying up front for any work carried out at your property and always retain a recognised and reputable company to carry out work.”

Last week we reported how conmen swindled an 82-year-old man out of tens of thousands of pounds after posing as gardeners.

They offered to clear up his yard in Ralston’s Buchlyvie Road but carried out minimal work - trousering a huge sum over the course of a month.

It is despicable to prey on a vulnerable pensioner by taking advantage of her kindness in this way