Picture of nursing home thefts suspect released

This is the woman detectives want to speak to in connection with a series of thefts at nursing homes across the region.

Four homes in Sandwell and Walsall were hit earlier this month by a bogus conman claiming to be carrying out official work.

And this new image of a woman officers want to speak to has been released as police revealed a further three thefts have taken place in the Dudley area – bringing the total number to seven, all of which are believed to be linked.

Police issued an appeal earlier this month after four homes were targeted by a male bogus caller in one day, who had claimed to be doing official work, but once inside, he stole bank cards and cash from staff.

However, now CCTV inquiries have uncovered a second female suspect who officers are asking for the public's help to trace.

The woman was caught on camera using a card which was stolen from one of the homes to withdraw a large amount of cash. Anyone who recognises the woman is asked to contact police.

The homes targeted included Woodgreen Nursing Home and Dovedale Court in Wednesbury.

The crime spree started in Pleck, Walsall, when the conman gained access by claiming to be doing official jobs. But once inside, he rifled through staff belongings, stealing bank cards and cash.

He targeted the home in Walsall on August 7 posing as a workman and stole cheques from staff worth around £700. He then headed to a home in Wednesbury where he took a handbag, which included bank cards. He managed to withdraw £1,400.

He then headed to another home in Wednesbury where he stole a handbag containing cash.

At the fourth home, which he visited at 3pm, staff were suspicious and when they challenged him, he fled.

Dc Lindsay Marsh, of Sandwell CID, appeal for help to catch the culprits.

She said: "People are often far too willing to give callers the benefit of the doubt when they come to the door, but you should always ask for identification."