Police warning after attempted distraction burglary in Thame

THAMES Valley Police is appealing for information and urging the public to be vigilant after an attempted distraction burglary in Thame.

At 2.15pm yesterday (19/11), a boy went to a property in East Street and asked the occupant, a lady in her fifties, if he could look for his ball in her garden.

The lady said he could, but to go around to the back garden. She locked the front door and went around to the back to meet him.

She then saw another man who spoke to the younger boy, before they left.

The boy is white, around 10 years old, 5ft tall and has short dark hair. He was wearing smart/casual clothing.

The man is white, in his mid to late thirties, around 5ft 10ins to 5ft 11ins, muscular, with short, sandy coloured hair. He was wearing an anorak and trousers.

Det Con Vicki Roberts, from Thame CID, said: “Fortunately nothing was stolen on this occasion but I urge anyone with any information to contact the police.

“There is no reason why a stranger should ever come into your home. All agencies or utility companies should make an appointment and also use a password system.

“I would urge anyone with elderly or vulnerable relatives, neighbours or carers to check their home security and alert them to the dangers of opening the door to a stranger.

“Distraction burglars prey on the elderly and vulnerable. If you see people calling at houses and are suspicious of their intentions, I would urge you to contact police immediately.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Det Con Roberts at Thame police station via 0845 8 505 505, or if you don?t want to talk to the police or give your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Malcolm Wills, Crime Reduction Advisor, would like to offer the following advice to Thame residents:

LOCKED – If someone knocks on your door and you are not expecting them, before you go to your front door make sure your rear door is secure.

STOP ? If someone knocks at your door, stop and think, “Am I expecting someone?” Look through your spy hole or through a window to see who is at your door.

CHAIN ? Put your door chain on before opening the door.

CHECK ? Ask for the callers Identification and check this by phone.

IF IN DOUBT KEEP THEM OUT

Leaflets about bogus callers are available from your local police station.