Lincolnshire Police have launched an appeal after an unknown woman allegedly gained entry to an 89-year-old man’s home in Long Sutton by pretending to be a carer and stole £125 in cash.
The incident happened at about 8.30pm on Tuesday, August 11, on Dick Turpin Way. Police said the woman entered through the rear door and told the resident she was checking on his welfare because of the recent hot weather.
How the money was taken
The woman persuaded the man to take a shower and offered to wash his hair. While his eyes were closed, detectives believe she took his wallet from the bathroom. The wallet was later found discarded inside the property.
Police believe the suspect may have been involved in similar offences and want to hear from anyone who had a comparable experience or noticed anything suspicious in the area that evening.
Police seek footage and witnesses
Officers are particularly interested in hearing from residents on Dick Turpin Way and nearby streets who may have doorbell, CCTV or dashcam footage recorded between 8pm and 9pm on Tuesday, August 11.
Investigators are also asking anyone who saw a woman acting suspiciously or knocking on doors while claiming to be a carer to come forward.
“We would also remind residents that genuine carers and healthcare professionals should carry identification, and appointments should be arranged in advance.”
Police advise residents not to let anyone into their home if they are unsure who they are. Instead, people should contact a trusted friend, family member or the relevant organisation to check the visitor’s identity.
They are also urging people to check on elderly relatives, neighbours and other vulnerable members of the community, and to discuss doorstep safety and the importance of verifying callers.
Information can be passed to Lincolnshire Police through its website, by emailing [email protected] and quoting incident 555 of 12 August, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.