Man, 80, beaten by bogus water board official in his West Bromwich home
This suspect was being hunted by police today after a man aged 80 was left with a broken arm in a violent attack by a fake water board official.
The thief turned up at the property in West Bromwich and tricked his way in, saying the water supply would be switched off if checks were not carried out.
The raider searched the home as he carried out the supposed checks, but attacked the pensioner when he found nothing.
He only stopped when the victim offered £40 from his wallet.
Det Sgt Wayne Dudley said: "Distraction burglaries are truly despicable offences. However in this instance an elderly man was also seriously assaulted by the offender.
"It was understandably a horrific ordeal for the victim who suffered a number of injuries including a broken arm, cuts and bruises not to mention the lasting psychological impact of such a crime."
It happened at around 4.20pm on September 16.
Anyone with information is urged to contact DS Dudley on 101 extension 811 3102.
The crime number to give is 20SW/181096U/16.
