Police search for conman who targeted pensioner (From Penarth Times)

Police search for conman who targeted pensioner

POLICE are searching for a man who conned his way into the home of an 86-year-old partially sighted woman and then stole cash from her.

The distraction burglary took place at Tennyson Road, Penarth at around 7.30pm on Monday, December 5.

A man went to the victim's home and banged on the window. The elderly woman opened her front door believing it was her son.

The man said he was from the Waterboard, that there had been a leak and the property next door was flooded, and claimed he was allowed entry.

While in the kitchen he told the victim to watch a pan of water he had placed on the gas stove. At this point she became suspicious and told the man to leave or she would scream.

He left - but the victim discovered her home had been searched and 30 cash taken.

The man is described as white European, swarthy, with dark olive skinned complexion, 20-30 years old, 5ft 6in to 5ft 7in, round face and dark hair, no particular accent. He was scruffily dressed with a black fleece type or leather jacket and dark trousers.

He also continually pulled his sleeves over his hands while talking to the victim.

Police are appealing for anyone who may have see this man in the Tennyson Road area to contact DC Andy Price at Barry CID on 02920 222111 Ext 32-421, or the Distraction Burglary Desk at FIB 02920 222111 Ext 30-568.