Three men posing as gardeners tricked an elderly man in Mossley Hill, Merseyside, into letting them into his home before stealing a large sum of cash. Police are urging residents to be vigilant and follow safety advice to protect themselves from similar scams.
An elderly man's life changed in an instant after a knock on the door. At around 2pm on Monday, December 30, it was reported three men knocked on the door of a home on Brodie Avenue in Mossley Hill and offered to carry out work in the garden. An elderly resident invited them into his home and while inside, they distracted him and stole a large quantity of cash from upstairs. The victim was unharmed, but left distressed by the incident and we are supporting him during the investigation.
Police said enquiries are ongoing, including door-to-door, CCTV and forensics. Anyone who lives locally and has seen or been visited by any suspicious persons is asked to get in touch with Merseyside Police . Detective Sergeant Hannah Noakes said: 'To enter the home of an elderly person under false pretences and steal money while they are distracted is a despicable abuse of trust. Bogus officials cause untold harm with their actions, and we're supporting the victim as our investigation continues. 'If you live in the Mossley Hill area and have been visited by or seen anyone acting suspiciously recently let us know. A vehicle registration, dashcam, CCTV or doorbell footage could be absolutely vital in finding the males responsible and putting them before the courts.” Police has issued advice on how to protect your home and said there are some common methods used by these criminals. They added 'if in doubt keep them out.' When unexpected visitors knock at your door or the door of a vulnerable family member, friend or neighbour, consider the following: • Use your door viewer to see who’s there • If you open the door put the chain on first • Always ask for ID and check it with the company before letting somebody into your home • Use the phone number advertised in the phone book or online, as the number on their identity card could be fake. For a utility company, call the customer service department. Close the door while you do this • Remember that genuine callers won’t mind check
Bogus Officials Theft Elderly Merseyside Police Home Security
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