Sneak conman took OAP cash

A SNEAKY conman stole cash from an elderly woman by posing as a workman.

The man called at a house in Lumley Terrace, Sunderland, on Tuesday, claiming to be a builder and told the resident her roof needed repaired as it was leaking.

He told the victim how much it would cost and the householder went inside to get the money.

But the thief then entered the house, stole a quantity of cash and made off.

The conman was white, 5ft 9ins tall, and thin with short mousey hair.

He was wearing a red jacket and was driving a maroon van with bits of grey on it and a roof rack.

Detective Sergeant Graeme Flaxen said: “Our inquiries are continuing today to trace the individual responsible for this offence.

“We want to remind residents to take care when answering their door to strangers and if anyone comes to your door who you’re unsure about, you should not let them inside your home. Always ask to see identification – genuine callers will not mind.

“If you are in any doubt as to who they are, then don’t let them in your home and contact the police straight away.

“We’ll always come and check callers out and make sure they’re not trying to commit offences or target vulnerable people.

“I’d urge anyone with information on this incident to come forward.”

People can contact police on 101 ext 69191, quoting log number 350 07/ 10/ 14, or the Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.