POLICE ISSUE ADVICE ABOUT DISTRACTION BURGLARIES

HERTFORDSHIRE Constabulary is asking people to be on their guard against distraction burglars following a rise in incidents in the past fortnight.

There have been 36 distraction burglaries offences across the county since the beginning of November, which is up 12 from the same period last year. Central and Western areas of the county have been the worst affected by the rise.

Detective Inspector Andy Theakston from Serious and Organised Crime Unit said: “Although there has been this recent rise in incidents, we have seen an overall fall in distraction burglaries this year, and we are detecting more of these crimes than ever before.

“Hertfordshire Constabulary runs Operation Manhunt which targets distraction burglars and rogue traders and we are working hard to ensure that the county is a very hostile environment for criminals to operate in.”

“However, we have seen a recent increase in distraction burglaries and although there is often a rise at this time of year when the evenings are darker, it is not acceptable that these people are targeting the elderly and vulnerable members of our community in such a despicable way.”

Offenders have duped people into thinking they are police officers, from a utility company or just need to use the phone because their car has broken down. Some have even asked to use a pen and paper or to have a drink of water. The offenders are not just men; often women and children are involved and will act as a distraction whilst someone else carries out a search of the property

DI Theakston added: “We are working tirelessly to apprehend those who are responsible for these crimes and we're asking people to help by being extra vigilant. There are a number of ways people can protect themselves and help prevent others in their neighbourhood from becoming a victim.

“We would always recommend that if you do not know the person at the door, do not open it. If you can't see who is calling and need to open the door, use your door chain. Do not let anyone into your house if you do not know them.

DI Theakston continued: “In almost all cases, police officers will be wearing full uniform and will identify themselves by producing a warrant card. Plain-clothed police officers will not mind waiting whilst you call to check their identities.

“We also urge people to report suspicious behaviour to the police immediately with as much information as possible. Take down details of vehicles they are using and registration numbers and as much description about the people as you can. Look after the elderly and vulnerable in your community.”

If you believe a crime is in progress contact police immediately by dialling 999 or if you believe you may have information about a recent crime contact police on the non emergency number on 0845 3300 222.

Consider the following advice before answering a knock at the door:

- Make sure doors are locked - even when you are in the house, or are expecting a caller. It only takes a few seconds for someone to walk in and take a wallet or purse that has been left lying around.

- Always put the door chain on before you open the door. Alternatively, use a door bar, which is less fiddly than a chain. You can get either from a DIY store and they are inexpensive and easy to fit.

- Find out what the caller wants and don't feel pressurised into letting them in.

- If the caller is claiming to be carrying out maintenance work or from a utility company - such as a water supplier - check the caller's ID card and telephone their company. Genuine callers will be happy to wait while you make the check but don't use the number given on the card because if it is a bogus caller the number may be that of an accomplice. Find the number in the phone book instead.

- If you still feel uneasy, don't let the caller in, or ask them to call back later. You can then ask for advice from a family member, friend or your local police and arrange for someone to be with you if you've asked them to return.

- Never buy items or pay for services in cash at the door. It lets people know that you have money in the house.

- Never give work to trades people who call at the door - always use a reputable and recommended local firm for such work as gardening, roof repairs and surfacing driveways.

- Don't keep large sums of money at home. If you know anyone who does, encourage them to save their money in a safer place such as in a bank, building society or post office account.

- If you are in any doubt or believe that a crime has been committed, call the police on 999.

The key message is simple - if in doubt, keep them out. And always report anything suspicious to us.

July 2009