He was one of a gang who posed as roofers and then demanded money for fake repairsA ‘scruffy slob’ is wanted by police after conning an 89-year-old man out of his life savings.
The man is one of five bogus builders who targeted the pensioner’s home in Grafton Street, Stoke on Saturday (March 17).
They posed as roofers to get access to his home and demanded £2,000 for fake repairs.
When he went to the bank to withdraw the money, they then raided his home.
Police say the scammers tricked the elderly man into believing he needed emergency roof repairs.
The callous group – all white males, three in their teens or early 20s with two considerably older – daubed masonry paint across tiles and then demanded £2,000 for the work.
The victim, who had recently been admitted to hospital and is on medication, withdrew the cash from a city centre bank before handing it over to the conmen.
While he was out getting the money, the group also stole items from the house - including two ceremonial swords.
One of the men, described as being scruffy and a “slob”, is understood to have talked his way into the house having claimed he needed to access the loft.
Police officers are carrying out CCTV enquiries in the area and are urging anyone with information – or who saw the men or their van in Grafton Street or the surrounding area over the weekend – to get in touch.
Anyone with information about the offence, or believes they know who might be responsible, is urged to call West Midlands Police on the 101 number quoting Crime Reference 20CV/62382C/18.
Alternatively, information can be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
Posted: Thu Mar 22, 2018 3:52 pm