Bogus council staff steal jewellery from elderly Walsall woman
Two men posing as council workers stole jewellery from an elderly woman during a distraction burglary in Walsall.
They pretended to be from Walsall Council and targeted a home in Riddings Crescent, Pelsall, stealing a jewellery box containing items of jewellery before leaving in a white van.
The thieves were allowed entry into the property after pretending to be from the council, claiming they had come to help with guttering.
While one spoke to the woman downstairs, the other went upstairs and took the box before leaving.
West Midlands Police sergeant Deborah Gallon has asked that report any suspicious activity after the burglary.
She said: "Unfortunately at around 11.10am on Wednesday morning a distraction burglary occurred in Riddings Crescent, Pelsall, whereby two males purporting to be form the council have duped the occupant and stolen from her.
"Officers were on the scene quickly however the males left in a white van with ladders prior to their arrival.
"Please be vigilant and report anything suspicious."
Councillor Marco Longhi, who represents the Pelsall ward, said: "Of course this is nothing new but it is always sad to hear about.
"My advice to everybody would be do not open your door unless you are sure of who is there.
"The council will call beforehand and tell you that they are coming, so these days that is the most important thing, because anyone can look official."
