Callous thieves prey on OAP
Police appeal over ‘cynical’ £900 distraction burglary
Callous thieves have stolen £900 from an elderly Sunderland man in a distraction burglary
Detectives investigating the ‘cynical crime’ in Lumley Terrace, Ryhope, are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Two men knocked on the door of an elderly man and told him he needed repairs to his roof.
The victim then proceeded to pay £200 in cash.
One of the offenders then gained access to the pensioner’s home by asking for a drink of water, and as he distracted the victim, another man searched the address and stole a further £700.
Both men then left shortly after and left the area in a white transit-type van.
An investigation has been launched into the incident, which took place shortly before 12pm on Wednesday, April 29, and police are appealing for anyone who witnessed anything suspicious to come forward.
The first male is described as white, about 6ft of medium build in his 50s with dark unshaven stubble. He was believed to have been wearing a long coat with the hood up.
The second male is described as white, 5’7 of large build, in his 50s wearing a face mask up to his eyes and a beanie hat.
Detective Constable Dave King said: “This was a cynical crime which saw two men target a vulnerable member of our community. This is particularly disappointing at a time when the majority of people are really pulling together to look after those most in need.
“We are carrying out a number of inquiries in a bid to locate those responsible – but are now asking for the public’s help.
“I would also like to make sure residents across Sunderland are aware of this type of criminality. Offenders often target the most vulnerable in our communities, especially those living alone, so I would ask the public to be wary if a suspicious person knocks on the door and asks to come inside.
“Please make sure you and any loved ones are aware of this, do not let anyone into your home and be careful when keeping large sums of money in the house.”
Anyone with information can contact 101 quoting reference 379 290420, the force’s ‘Tell Us Something’ website page or email 2409@northumbria.pnn.police.uk