Police Advise Vigilance Following Distraction Burglary in Stoughton

Published on: 13 Mar, 2013
Updated on: 15 Mar, 2013

A woman in New Cross Road, Stoughton had her handbag taken during a distraction burglary on Monday evening (March 11).

New Cross Road, from entrance by Worplesdon Road.

The male offender called at the woman’s house, claiming to work for a local church. The victim left the room to make the man a cup of tea before returning to find he had left with her handbag.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Andy Greaves, said: “This was an appalling incident where the offender clearly knew how to dupe the elderly lady out of her belongings and we are doing all we can to find the person responsible.

“The victim was able to provide officers with a description of the offender and I would appeal to anyone who knows who they are or who saw anything suspicious in the area around the time of the offence to contact officers with information.”

The offender is described as a white man, aged in his 20s, clean shaven and around 5ft 7in. He was wearing a black woollen hat, a dark coloured anorak and dark coloured jeans. He spoke with a local accent.

A police spokesperson said: “Residents are reminded to be vigilant.”

Anyone who has any information on this incident is urged to contact Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference GD/13/1983 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.