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Distraction burglary is such a cruel crime

Posted by Kevin Barry on Dec 18, 08 01:11 PM in

To read in the Staines & Egham News the story of the woman who, for the third time, was a victim of Distraction Burglary is really beyond belief.

Far too often, we hear of residents, usually pensioners, being mugged in their own home. Due to the very nature of this crime, and speed with which it is committed, it is very difficult for the Police to take remedial action.

Usually in broad daylight, a knock on the door reveals the smiling face of a smart looking person who say they are from the Council, or Gas Company, or Police, "I have been sent to help you with your Gas leak, Water pressure, noisy neighbours".

But as the excuse for knocking the door sounds convincingly urgent, the caller is accepted as genuine. The object of the exercise is to distract the resident, so that an accomplice can commit the crime.

This is achieved by suggesting we investigate where the problem might have started.

Once in the house, the burglar steers the victim to where they will be unable to see the burglar's helper nip in and help themselves to the cash, pension books, wallet, purse, jewellery.

The whole scam takes minutes.

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