Bogus policeman robs elderly woman (From The Argus)
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Bogus policeman robs elderly woman
10:55am Friday 23rd March 2012 in News By Bill Gardner
A BURGLAR posing as a police officer robbed an elderly woman in her St Leonards home.
The 86-year-old victim opened the door to a man claiming to be an officer searching for someone in the neighbouring block of flats in Battle Road on Thursday at 10am.
The man asked the victim for a drink but as soon as he was alone he stole her purse and laptop.
Detecive Sergeant Jason Tuck from the Hastings priority crime unit said: "This burglary has understandably left the victim very tired, upset and shaken. 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.
"Police officers will always show you their warrant card and if you have any doubts please call 101. Other genuine callers will always be happy to wait while you check who they are.
"I am keen to speak to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area, or who may have had a similar visitor claiming to be a police officer."
The suspect is described as white, age 30, medium build, wearing a dark coloured jacket with a multicoloured logo on the front and dark bottoms.
House-to-house inquiries are being completed and CCTV is being viewed by officers as part of the ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police on 101 quoting serial 1555 of 22/3 or anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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