Police have issued an urgent appeal to find a man who robbed an elderly woman in her home in York yesterday afternoon (4 August 2011).
The robbery was reported at 4.30pm after the suspect called at the victim’s house in Askham Lane, Acomb. He claimed to be delivering a parcel, before he forced his way into her house and demanded cash.
The man police would like to trace is described as white and aged in his 40s. He was wearing a navy coat and a distinctive woollen hat with ear flaps and bobbles hanging down on either side of the flaps.
Police would like to hear from anyone who recognises the man described or saw him in the area at the time of the robbery. Or anyone, else who has answered their door to a man matching his description.
Detective Sergeant Mandy Grundy, of York CID, said: “The victim has been left extremely traumatised by this incident and I am urging the public to help us locate the man responsible as soon as possible.
“Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area at the time or knows who is responsible is urged to contact the police or Crimestoppers immediately.”
Although the woman has been left badly shaken by the incident she has not been admitted to hospital.
Anyone who can help the police with their enquiries is urged to contact York CID on 0845 60 60 24 7, quoting reference number 12110130555.
Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111. You do not have to give your name and could qualify for a cash reward.
Police have repeated their advice to anyone with elderly parents, relatives or friends, to assist them with crime prevention measures, help them to fit a door chain and advise them not answer their door to anyone they are not expecting. Or, consider adopting our nominated neighbour scheme.
