3. THINGS THAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT OFFENDERS

(a) Although the victim only sees one offender it is normal for distraction burglars to work in team of between 2-4 persons.

(b) The offender will rarely drive a vehicle to the scene of an intended burglary. In most cases they will use a vehicle. However, this vehicle will be parked a short distance away, probably near to a main traffic route.

(c) There will invariably be elements of preparation eg, listening at the door/window. Only one offender will talk to the intended victim whilst other offenders hide out of the way until entry is gained. In some cases earlier visits have been made to homes in varying guises of builders, tarmacers, gardeners and UPVC workers.

(d) When questioned about identity cards in depth, offenders will often make excuses and leave. However offenders have been known to produce and allow inspection of ID cards. Violence is very rare.

(e) Offenders are known to travel large distances in any one day to commit crime.

4. WHAT CAN YOU DO TO ASSIST

(a) Identify possible target victims in your area

(b) Attempt to educate potential victims not to keep large sums of money in the home.

(c) Educate potential victims to keep premises secure whilst they are in their home.

(d) Impress upon such persons of the need to ask for identity and examining thoroughly any form of identification card before allowing access. Try to verify the callers’ identity by phoning their organisation. If in any doubt do not let them in.

(e) A door chain which is fitted and used forms a barrier and prevents the elderly from becoming quite so flustered. Encourage the fitting and use of such a chain.

(f) Pay special attention in respect of visitors to the premises of the vulnerable or elderly. Educate potential Victims not to purchase goods or services at the door.

(g) If circumstances are obviously suspicious ring 999 and request Police assistance.

(h) A neighbour enquiring at an elderly person’s house will often cause the offenders to move on. I would not advocate members of the public to have a go but just the sight of a neighbour will deter offenders.

(i) Write down details of vehicles and any description of offenders as soon as possible after any incident. Retain the paper and hand to the Police.

(j) If it becomes obvious that a crime has been committed, prevent the householder from tidying up or otherwise disturbing any forensic evidence. Well-wishers can be well meaning but they also contaminate crime scenes.

Trading Standards in Worcestershire have launched a "Trader Register" scheme which is an "online directory of local traders who are committed to providing good workmanship". This is especially relevant currently, in context of Distraction Burglaries where callers will often call on the pretext of undertaking work. West Mercia's advice is never to offer work to "tradesmen" who turn up at your door unsolicited, but if you want some work done we would advise that you get 2-3 quotes first. The new Trading Standards register will also be a useful resource to find a reputable trader.

Trading Standards point out that "the Trader Register is not an approval scheme, but members of the scheme have signed up to a Code of Practice and are dedicated to fair and honest workmanship."

If you are interested in the scheme, please click on the logo below
Alternatively you can call the Trader Register Scheme on
01905 765394.

In an effort to deal with the persistent problem of distraction burglars who claim to be "From the Water Board" Severn Trent Water have introduced a "Password" scheme. To learn more about this scheme please click on the link below. When you reach the Severn Trent Web Site click on "Household" then on "Individual Circumstances".
Alternatively you can telephone
0845 604 1655