'Bogus police officer' wanted over Camblesforth burglary

An elderly Camblesforth couple have been burgled after being duped into letting a 'bogus detective' into their home.

The incident took place at around 3.45pm yesterday evening when the alleged perpetrator arrived at the couples home on Grange Road. 

He talked his way into the couples house by claiming to be a plain-clothes, undercover detective investigating rogue builders who had been operating in the area.

He left the house with cash and drove off in a small white van in the direction of Brigg Lane. 

Officers are supporting the victims, who are a couple aged in their 70s, while extensive enquiries continue to track-down the suspect and investigate the full circumstances surrounding the incident. 

Police are appealing for witnesses and any information that could assist the investigation, particularly any sightings of the suspect or the van that he was travelling in. 

The man police are trying to trace is described as white, aged between 30 and 35, about 5ft 6in tall with a stocky build. He has medium-length black hair which is combed in a wavy style. He was wearing smart black trouser, a white shirt unbuttoned at the collar, and grey trainers with orange flashes on them.

Sergeant Mike Brocken, from the York Investigation Hub, said: “This is a very worrying incident and we are doing all we can to support the victims while we hunt for the suspect.

“Distraction burglary is a sickening crime and leaves the victims feeling deeply disturbed and frightened. This is especially so when the suspect claims to be a trusted figure of authority, such as a police officer in this case, or a council representative or utility company worker as we have seen with previously incidents across the county.

“Our key safety message to residents is always ask for official identification of any unexpected callers to your home, no matter who they claim to represent. If you are any doubt, do not let them in. Any reputable organisation or company will completely understand.

“If your suspicions are raised, please do not hesitate to report it to the police via the non-emergency number 101. If you feel threatened or a crime is in progress, always dial 999 for an emergency response.”

If you can help the investigation, please contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for York Investigation Hub. Or email investigationhubyork@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk, quoting reference number 12160036259.

If you would prefer to remain anonymous, please pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 and quote reference number 12160036259.