Burglar tricked elderly people into handing over cash
He targeted victims up to 100 years old.
A burglar who tricked two elderly people into giving him money has been jailed.
On 8 April, Darren Hemmings, aged 55, knocked the door of a 100-year-old woman living in Halesowen.
He tricked her into giving him money for a taxi to the hospital.
Hemmings, of Lea Castle Drive, Kidderminster then followed her into her home and the woman gave him money for the return journey.
Just two days later, Hemmings knocked the door of a 77-year-old man living in Pedmore.
He told the victim he needed to use a phone and then followed the him into his home. Hemmings distracted the man by asking for items such as a pen and paper and a glass of water. Meanwhile Hemmings stole the man's wallet.
Thanks to good quality CCTV footage from both incidents we arrested Hemmings and he was charged with fraud and burglary.
He admitted to the offences at an earlier hearing and was sentenced to four years in prison at Wolverhampton Crown Court this week.
Investigating officer, Nev Payton from our Neighbourhood Crime Team in Dudley said: "Often we see vulnerable and elderly people targeted during distraction burglaries.
"Hemmings conned two innocent people, feeding them lies and taking advantage of their kindness.
"We were able to link both incidents together thanks to CCTV footage which was vital in identifying Hemmings and bringing him to justice."
Common methods used by distraction burglars
- pretending to be from a care agency, the council or a utility company investigating a gas or water leak
- seeking help to leave a note for a neighbour or even asking for a drink of water if they claim to be thirsty or unwell
- claiming to be in a hurry or emergency and needing to get into your home quickly
- working in teams, with one person distracting you while the other searches your home
How to prevent it
There are a number of things you can do to prevent distraction burglary. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about anyone at your door – genuine callers won’t mind. Always remember 'if in doubt, keep them out':
- use your door viewer to see who’s there
- if you open the door put the chain on first
- always ask for ID and check it with the company before letting somebody into your home
- use the phone number advertised in the phone book or online, as the number on their identity card could be fake. For a utility company, call the customer service department. Close the door while you do this
- if you feel at all unsure, schedule a time for the caller to come back when a friend or relative is there
- for pre-planned appointments with utility companies, a password scheme can be set up
If you feel threatened or in danger please call 999.