Police hunt burglar who preys on pensioners

Police hunt burglar who preys on pensioners

Police in Heywood have issued an E-fit of a suspected burglar who preys on pensioners.

At about 6pm on 4 August, a man knocked on the door of a house on Starkey Street, and asked the victim, an 82-year-old man, if he could come inside and measure his rooms.

The victim did not let the offender in. His neighbour overheard the conversation and came out to speak to the offender, who grew agitated and left.

Detectives believe the same man may have been responsible for another burglary, at about 1.30pm on 22 June.

On this occasion, a man knocked on the door of a house on Cobden Street, and said he was inquiring about his pension.

The offender showed the 86-year-old man a form of identification, and he asked to see his pension book.

The victim grew suspicious as the man went upstairs to use the toilet.

The man challenged the offender who then ran from the address without stealing anything.
The police have now released an E-fit of the man who is described as being white, in his 50s and of slim build. He is 5ft 8in to 5ft 9in tall and has a distinctive swallow tattoo on his hand or wrist.

Detective Constable Nigel Humphreys, of Rochdale CID, said: "These are audacious offences where in each case the offender has tried to prey on elderly men.

"By releasing this E-fit we are appealing for people to come to us with information which may assist.

"You may have been approached by this man yourself and I’d appeal for you to contact us."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0161 856 4643 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.