Most Wanted Distraction Burglars

27 January 2012, 06:00 | Updated: 27 January 2012, 08:24

Despite having their faces put online for all to see for the last year - two men wanted over crimes in the Thames Valley still haven't been found.

The images were published by Crimestoppers last year as part of a campaign to find the 20 "Most Wanted" people sought in connection with distraction burglaries across the country.

Distraction burglars trick their way in to the homes of the elderly and vulnerable by pretending to be a type of official or asking for help.

Two of the crimes in question took place in the Thames Valley - but despite appearing on the website, the men police are looking for have yet to be located.

The first man they're looking for is 28 year old Michael Ward. He is a suspect in a burglary in Summertown which took place in March 2010.

Michael Ward

The other is 30 year old Patrick Connors. He has been convicted and sentenced in his absence to 4 1/2 years for a rogue trading offence against an 81 year old woman. On leaving her house, Connors and his accomplice were chased by police and didn't stop. During the chase, their vehicle hit a pedestrian and carried on. The pedestrian was left with serious life changing injuries.  

Patrick Connors
 
He has connections in Coventry and Ireland and uses the alias 'William Ward'. A warrant has been issued for his arrest.

Dave Cording, Director of Operations at Crimestoppers, said:

“Distraction burglars target the most vulnerable members of our communities, often the elderly. It is not simply the financial loss, but the effect this type of crime has on the victim, chipping away at their independence and their peace of mind.

“Cash is stolen by using a variety of different distraction tactics. The individuals highlighted prey on older people who may be at risk and need to be brought to justice.

“If you have any information on these most wanted individuals, please contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously, or fill in an online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org, we guarantee that no one will know your identity.”