Police warning after snow clearing distraction burglary
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)
Police are asking householders to be aware of an incident in which cash was stolen from an elderly woman by a man who offered to clear her drive of snow.
Two men called at the house in Banks Avenue in Kirkby-in-Ashfield at around 4pm on Saturday (19 January).
After clearing the drive, one of the men asked for payment. He then asked to use the toilet and then for a drink of water. When the woman returned with the drink, the man left hurriedly. She then noticed that a quantity of cash had been stolen from her purse.
Police are keen to hear from anyone who saw the men or who may also have received a visit from them.
The man who went into the house is described as white, of slim build, with dark hair and a moustache. He was wearing grey clothing.
The second man, who remained outside, was also white, of medium build, around 5ft 9ins tall. He had short mousey-coloured hair and is believed to be aged 20-23 years old. He also wore grey clothing.
A white pick-up, possibly a Nissan Navarro style vehicle, was seen nearby and police believe this may also be linked to the men.
Investigating officer DC Stuart Temple, of Mansfield North CID, said: “This is an example of callous offenders exploiting the vulnerability of an elderly victim. We would like to hear from anyone who may also have received a visit from these two individuals or who saw them in the area of Banks Avenue on Saturday afternoon.
“Householders should also be aware that some offenders are always looking for opportunities to commit crime, and the snowy conditions have given these two men a pretext to offer a service which could disguise their real intention – to steal cash.”
Anyone who has any information about this incident or who may have received a visit from these two men is urged to telephone Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 000520-19012013.
They can also call that number and ask to speak to Mansfield North CID.
Alternatively, they can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.