Rogue Traders - Beware

Today, in Uttoxeter we received a report of a Rogue Trader in the Heathfield area of Uttoxeter.  Rogue and phoney tradesman often target the more elderly and vulnerable members of our communities. They can often pitch as various tradespersons, guttering, facias, gardening, driveways etc.  If anyone knocks on your door, unexpectedly, offering trades such as above, please take precautions and be very wary about accepting their work. Never hand money over in the first instance, or give any bank details to strangers, even if they appear genuine.   If they have a leaflet, take it, and let them know that you'll call them should you need any work doing, but always check the details out on the leaflet. If you have any neighbours that you may consider vulnerable, or are elderly please keep a look out for them. Distraction burglaries are another nasty crime that can deeply effect victims. If someone comes to your door purposing to be, gas, electric, waterboard officials and they are not expected, do not let them in your house, if in doubt ring the police immediately.  Sometimes the distraction burglars work in pairs, where one offender will keep the victim talking and the other will do a quick search of the house for money and valuables etc. Please be aware. Keeping our neighbours safe and looking out for our more vulnerable residents in our communities.  As the festive season approaches, we have purchased goods and gifts in the rear of our cars, etc etc. Offenders will readily take advantage of these situations and steal goods.  Here at Staffordshire Police we do our best to keep our communities safe, and Rogue Traders and Distraction burglaries are the lowest of crimes preying on vulnerable people. If you ever see a suspicious vehicle or activity in your area or street and you suspect persons going door to door don't be afraid to contact us, we will come and check them out as quickly as possible. As Christmas approaches lets try and look after one another and make it a merry Christmas for everyone.

Thank you