Police Investigate Suspicious Caller
Police are appealing for information following a suspicious caller at an address in Petersfield.
Between 3pm and 3.15pm on Tuesday, June 19 an 85-year-old woman was at her home at Broadway Park, Petersfield. The back door was open and a man walked into her hallway and she challenged him.
The man said he was doing a survey to see if anyone wanted any paint work done. He told the woman that it looked like she needed some painting done and that he could do it for £400.
The victim told him that she did not have that kind of money and the man then asked her if she had the money in bank or post office, and offered to drive her to pick up the money. The victim declined.
The man then continued to talk to her, asking her how much she had paid for her caravan. The woman refused to tell him. The man then said she could pay him half the money today and he would collect the other half the following day, to which she declined.
The victim then told him to leave and threatened to pull her emergency cord if he did not. The man then left.
The man is described as: Aged 28 – 30, white, around 5ft 8ins, medium build, short dark black hair, wearing a blue T-shirt and black trousers. He did not have any painting gear with him.
PC Daniel Hurst, said: “This man was very persistent and tried to persuade the woman into handing over her cash. I would urge people to be vigilant and report any suspicious callers to the police immediately. Please ensure you do not leave doors andwindows open when you are not in the room.
“I am appealing to anyone who any information about this incident to come forward. Did you see anyone matching this description in the area, or did you see any unusual vehicles? I would urge anyone with any information to come forward and speak to us in confidence.
“Be careful when opening the door to strangers and use a chain on the door. Never buy goods or services at the door, always use a reputable business. Businesses can be checked on www.buywithconfidence.gov.ukwhich is a site approved by trading standards and police."
Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Hurst at Alton police station by phoning 101 or emailing http://www.hampshire.police.uk/Internet/contact/message_officer.htm.
From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, call police on 0845 045 45 45. Mini-Com users can call the police on 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111