Police are urging residents to be alert to bogus callers after an elderly woman in Hove was targeted by a distraction burglar last night (Thursday 4 August).
A man claiming to be from the waterboard called at the 85-year-old victim’s home in Byron Street, Hove, at about 10.30pm.
PC Justin Stacey said: “It is easy to be caught off guard when a bogus official calls by, which is why it is vital to always use the door chain, take your time and thoroughly read and verify their identification.
“A genuine caller will be always be happy to wait while you call his company to check who he is.
“I am keen to speak to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in these areas or who may have had a similar visitor claiming to be from a utility company.”
The man was described as white, aged in his thirties, 6th tall, slimly built, with short brown hair and wearing jeans.
Police are conducting house-to-house inquiries and forensic examinations.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police on 0845 6070999 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
