We are urging residents to remain vigilant when answering the door to cold callers after vulnerable members of the community were targeted by suspected distraction burglars in Staffordshire.

On Tuesday 15 April, a man in his 80s was burgled whilst he was distracted by a food delivery and the door was left open. The offender conducted an untidy search but nothing was stolen.

On Wednesday 16 April, we received a call from another man in his 70s, from Tamworth, who had booked a quote from a kitchen company. A man visited the home and was paid £400 as a deposit. The man called the company he had booked with and they said this man did not work there.

Entering the home of a vulnerable person to steal money while they are distracted is a deplorable abuse of trust and invasion of personal space.

We would like to reassure our local communities that we are investigating these incidents, with officers carrying out a number of ongoing enquiries.

Distraction burglars often work in pairs so one person can distract a would-be victim whilst the other steals items.

To reduce the risk, please follow the below advice:
• Remember to lock your back door, or any windows, before answering the door
• Always use a door chain if you have one before you open the door to strangers
• Always ask for ID and relevant contact details. Ask the caller to wait outside while you check this
• Don’t leave visitors alone in your house
• Do not share you debit/credit card or bank account details with callers
• Don’t sign up to any work on your doorstep.