Appeal after 98-year-old is targeted in distraction burglary in Lancaster

A 98-year-old woman was burgled at her home in Lancaster.

Police said the incident happened at 11.25am on Friday, September 26 at an address on Lancambe Court.

It is believed the burglar knocked on the victim’s door pretending to be a workman and asked to see her boiler.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He was shown inside the address before asking the woman to remain with the boiler to check for a red light.

He then left the room and stole the victim’s handbag whilst she was distracted.

The burglar is described as white, in his 20s, 5ft7in to 5ft9in tall, average build with short, curly, mousey brown hair.

DC Trevor Walker of Lancaster Police said: “This is a shameful crime and I believe the offender has purposefully picked on an elderly and vulnerable victim.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I would like to speak to anyone who believes they may have had a similar experience.

“I would also urge anyone who may have any information about this incident or who recognises the description of the offender to contact us.

“Additionally, I would like to urge people to be vigilant and if anybody knocks on your door that you are unsure of then do not let them into your house.

“Any suspicious activity should be reported to the police as soon as possible.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting crime reference number BA1407254.

Alternatively, information can be passed on via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or on-line at Crimestoppers-uk.org.

No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.

Related topics: