Warning after attempted distraction burglary in Chinnor (Status: Press release)

THAME Police are appealing for information and urging the public to be vigilant after an attempted distraction burglary in Chinnor.
On Monday (4/2) at about 5.15pm, two men went to a property in Elm Drive and asked to speak to a man called Michael Janes. The resident didn?t know anyone of that name.

One man went into the house and the other waited in the porch. Then the men left the property as the resident?s son arrived.

One of the offenders is white, 5ft 10ins with dark hair and was unshaven.

Det Sgt Alan Clements from Thame said: ?It is thought that there maybe three people involved in this attempted distraction burglary and I urge anyone with any information to contact the police.

?There is no reason why a stranger should ever come into your home. All agencies or utility companies should make an appointment and also use a password system.

?I would urge anyone with elderly or vulnerable relatives, neighbours or carers to check their home security and alert them to the dangers of opening the door to a stranger.

?Distraction burglars prey on the elderly and vulnerable. If you see people calling at houses and are suspicious of their intentions, I would urge you to contact police immediately.?

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Det Sgt Clements at Thame police station via 0845 8 505 505, or if you don?t want to talk to the police or give your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Lesley Nesbitt, Crime Reduction Advisor, would like to offer the following advice to Thame residents:

LOCKED – If someone knocks on your door and you are not expecting them before you go to your front door make sure your rear door is secure.

STOP ? If someone knocks at your door stop and think, ?Am I expecting someone?? Look through your spy hole or through a window to see who is at your door.

CHAIN ? Put your door chain on before opening the door.

CHECK ? Ask for the callers Identification and check this by phone.

IF IN DOUBT KEEP THEM OUT

Leaflets about bogus callers are available from your local police station.