Burglar poses as police officer (From Surrey Comet)

Burglar poses as police officer in Hersham

8:20am Thursday 16th February 2012 in Elmbridge By Louise Robertson

A burglar posing as a police officer made up an elaborate story to gain entry to an 84-year-old woman’s home.

The offender told the woman he was a police officer and had seen a man enter a home via the first floor window, using a ladder.

The woman went upstairs with the man to search the property and he told her the man who had broken in was now in custody and then quickly left the house.

The incident took place at an address in Vaux Crescent, Hersham, between 8pm and 8.30pm on Sunday, February 12. A police spokesman said it appeared nothing had been stolen.

Detective Constable Phil Carter said: “This was a nasty incident which has understandably left the elderly victim extremely concerned and upset.

“Offences of this nature are always particularly appalling and distressing because the offenders often deliberately target elderly and vulnerable victims.

“Fortunately on this occasion the suspect left empty-handed but callous offences of this nature will not be tolerated by Surrey Police.

“Offenders pretending to work for one of the emergency services to trick their way into the home of a victim is an approach which has not been seen in Elmbridge for some time.”

The burglar was described as a white man, of stocky build, between 35 and 40 years old, and about 5ft 7in.

He was wearing a woolly hat and dark clothing at the time of the offence.

Anyone who witnessed the burglary or has any information should call Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference EL/12/976, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.