A doorstep conman posing as an electricity company worker stole hundreds of pounds from a Brighton pensioner.
Sussex Police published an efit of the bogus caller yesterday (Monday 30 March).
The force said: “At about 8pm on Thursday 19 March a man visited a home in Cowley Drive, Woodingdean, and persuaded the 76-year-old resident that he worked for Seeboard and needed to check the electricity meter.
“The thief convinced the victim that he could save him money but that it would cost £700, at which point the pensioner got the money required and handed it over.
“The intruder then distracted the victim and stole a money purse containing hundreds of pounds before leaving the house.”
The thief was described as white, 35 to 40 years old and about 5ft 7in tall with brown hair. He was wearing a beige anorak and was carrying a clipboard.
Detective Constable Vanessa Sheehan said: “The offender clearly identified that the victim was vulnerable and decided to take advantage of this to steal hundreds of pounds.
“The victim is understandably very upset at what has happened and we are determined to find who was responsible.
“If you have seen someone acting suspiciously in the Cowley Drive area who fits the description of the thief or recognise the face in the efit, please contact us urgently.”
Anyone with information should phone Sussex Police on 101, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
