Appeal after elderly woman falls victim to distraction burglary in Derbyshire village

Police have urged Matlock residents to be on their guard after a man duped an elderly woman in order to gain access to her home and steal from her.
By Alana Roberts
Published 6th Apr 2021, 18:34 BST
Updated 6th Apr 2021, 18:35 BST

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Shortly before 4pm on Thursday, April 1, a man visited the home of a woman in her 70s in Main Road, Lea.

He told her that a car outside was damaged and asked if it was her vehicle.

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Concerned, the woman went to check, thinking the man was following her to the car.

Police are investigating the distraction burglary in MatlockPolice are investigating the distraction burglary in Matlock
Police are investigating the distraction burglary in Matlock

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When she realised he wasn’t behind her, she returned to her home and saw him running away having stolen her purse.

He is described as white, balding and with a tattoo on his face or neck.

Witnesses or anyone with information should contact Derbyshire Constabulary on 101 quoting reference number 21*165004 in any correspondence.

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Alternatively, people can message the force on Facebook, Twitter or by completing an online form.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

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