Be on your guard - warning after distraction burglary in Southampton

Police are warning Southampton residents, particularly the elderly or vulnerable, to be on their guard after a 'well presented' man stole cash from a 75 year old lady after claiming he needed access to her back garden.

The man knocked on her front door in Cateran Close, claimed he needed to check on some trees but while in the property in Cateran Close, he stole £80 from her purse before making off in a white van, which was parked in Oakley Road.

The suspect is described as being clean shaven, of slim build and white, in his mid to late 20s, with mousey hair and a local accent.

He was around five foot four inches tall and was wearing a grey jumper and some cream coloured trousers which were clean and pressed. He was  described as being 'very well presented'.

We would like to remind residents of the following advice:

• Never open your door to someone you don’t know or aren’t expecting. Most callers are genuine but it’s important to be on your guard. Always make sure a caller is who they say they are before letting them into your home.
• Distraction burglars may try to trick their way into your home by posing as officials or playing for sympathy by asking for help, such as to use your toilet or phone. These people often work in pairs or groups. The caller will try to distract you so their partner can sneak into your home to steal.
• Genuine callers will be happy to show you their identification or call back when someone else is at home with you. So always ask if you’re unsure.
• If you are a pensioner, have a disability or impairment, you may be able to set up a password with your energy provider to help protect you further.

If don’t know or aren’t expecting a caller:

• Make sure your back door is locked before answering the front door. Use a door chain when opening the door
• Ask for identification and check it carefully before letting anyone in
• Ask them to come back when someone else is at home with you
• Direct people asking for help to a nearby shop or other public place, don’t let them in
• Always report any suspicious callers to the police on 101.