Police investigating four distraction burglaries in the Ripon, Crakehall, Masham and Harrogate areas, have issued an efit of the suspect.
The burglar struck at the homes of elderly people between 12pm and 5.30pm on Saturday 2 April.
He conned his way into two of the houses by claiming to be from the ‘water board’ saying he needed to check their water.
He is believed to be in his thirties or forties is described as white, around 5ft 5 – 5ft 8 tall, of average build with dark brown hair and a moustache.
Police are appealing for anyone who either saw the man on Saturday, was targeted by him or can help identify him from the efit, to contact them.
Please contact DC Nicky Wright at Harrogate CID on 0845 60 60 247 or you can contact the charity, Crimestoppers and give information anonymously on 0800 555 111.
DC Wright said: “Targeting elderly and vulnerable people is a particularly distressing crime and we need the public’s help to stop this man before he strikes again. We urge people who know who this man is or has any information, to please contact police as a matter of urgency.”
“ We also urge friends, neighbours and family members to help protect elderly and vulnerable people by letting them know they are not being rude by refusing entry to cold callers. Help them to fit a door chain and advise them not to let anyone in their homes who they do not know.”
Follow three simple steps:
Stop – before you open the door
Chain – put it on
Check – ask the caller for their identification, and check it, before letting them in. Use the phone number in the phone book, not on an identity card.
