Burglar posed as police officer
This is a message from Neighbourhood Alert Information sent on behalf of Nottinghamshire Police
Message sent by
Jason Crofts (Police, PC 1146, West Bassetlaw, East Bassetlaw & Sherwood)
Nottinghamshire residents are being urged to be vigilant against doorstep callers after a Retford pensioner allowed a man claiming to be a police officer into her home.
It happened in Spital Hill, at around 12.30am on Saturday 20 October 2012, when a man knocked on his 71-year-old victim’s door purporting to be a police office in plain clothes. He told her a relative of hers was in police custody and he was required to search her home as part of the investigation.
The man then conducted a search of the property before leaving. He is not believed to have stolen anything.
The suspect is described as white, aged between 50 and 60. He had short grey hair and a clean shaven, chubby face. He was wearing a dark jacket and blue jeans.
Retford Detective Ricci Skelton said: “Distraction burglars are shrewd and try to find whatever means they can to get inside someone’s home.
“Never let anyone you do not know or have not made a prior appointment with into your house, even police officers. Always ask to see identification and phone the company or organisation they claim to be working for to double check they are who they say they are. Do not phone the number on the card they provide.
“If in any doubt, simply do not open the door.
“Keep your doors locked at all times, even if you are in the back garden, and be mindful of leaving open windows unattended.
“Don’t leave valuables on display or near windows or doors, and do not keep large amounts of money on the premises.
“As a result of this incident we have increased patrols in the area in a bid to deter potential burglars and provide reassurance to the local community.
“We are keen to speak with witnesses or anyone who has been approached at home by a man matching the above description.
Witnesses or anyone with any information should contact DC Skelton at Retford CID on 101 extension 807 7477 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.