Attempted distraction burglary in Birstall.

Officers are appealing for information following an attempted distraction burglary in Birstall.
The incident happened at around 10am on Friday April 15, 2011 when a man knocked on an address on Iris Avenue.
The victim, in her eighties, answered the door and the man claimed he worked for a gas company and was investigating a gas leak nearby. He claimed he needed to come in so he could inspect if the house had a gas problem.
The victim refused several times and the man eventually left without gaining access to the property.
He is described as white, in his mid thirties, of medium build with short brown hair. He was wearing a dark jacket which had a small badge and photo on it.
Detective Constable Sukhvinder Obhi, who is investigating this incident, said: "This victim did exactly the right thing by not letting this man in his home and calling a relative straight away. The man did have some ID but it did not appear genuine and the man did become agitated when challenged by the woman.
"We would like to remind residents that you not have to let anyone into your home who you do not know. Anyone from a legitimate company will have identification with them and will not mind you checking with the company that they are a genuine employee.
"If you are in doubt, do not be afraid to refuse to allow them in. You can call a friend, relative or neighbour and ask them first or call the police on 999 if you think they are suspicious.
"If anyone has any information regarding this suspect or perhaps was visited by someone using a similar story, we would urge you to get in touch."
Anyone with information is asked to contact DC 575 Sukhvinder Obhi on Leicester (0116) 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for an officer and when prompted key in the identification number 0575. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

Issued on 19/04/11 at 15:51
Crime reference number: LC/00171/11-5

(copied from Leicestershire constabulary website)
- posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, April 19, 2011

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