"Fake" workman steals from elderly woman's Eastbourne home (From The Argus)

"Fake" workman steals from elderly woman's Eastbourne home

4:20pm Tuesday 5th March 2013 in News

A thief posing as a workman stole jewellery from an elderly woman’s home.

In what was described by officers as a “callous offence”, the suspect knocked on the 85-year-old victim's door claiming to be from the water board.

He then took several antique rings and other items of jewellery along with cash before leaving.

It took place at about 9.30am on February 26 in St Anthony's Avenue, Eastbourne, but police have just released details.

The suspect is described as a white, aged 30 to 40, 5' 8" of slim build, with dark short hair.

He was wearing a dark top with lapels, dark trousers and described as smart in appearance.

Detective Constable Gary Baker, of the East Sussex Priority Crime Team, said: “Please do not let anyone into your home unless you are a hundred percent sure that they are who they say they are.

“If in doubt - keep them out.

“Genuine employees of facility companies will be happy to wait whilst you call the company.

“If you have elderly relatives and neighbours please remind them not to let anyone into their home without checking their ID with the company that they claim to be working for.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.