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North Shore Police say the elderly in our community are being
increasingly targeted by opportunist offenders, and so they have issued some helpful hints to the elderly, to
encourage them and their families to be continually vigilant.
Senior Sergeant Chris Powell says there've been several incidents
recently where the offenders have entered a home or property where elderly persons have been living. At
the time the elderly residents have been at the rear of the property gardening. The offenders have entered
via unlocked front doors.
"In almost every instance the fine weather has been a
factor," he said.
"The offenders often have a preference to work together as a
duo, and so they seek out localities where there are potential victims. They consider their best
opportunity is likely to be from elderly owners of residential homes or properties," said Mr Powell, Police
Tactics, North Shore.
"When there are two offenders, one will engage in conversation,
while the other enters the residence and steals cash, credit cards, or high value jewellery. The offender
often has a preference to operate on fine, warm days, because that is when their victims are most likely to be
engaged outside."
"Family relatives and friends can play an important role in
protecting their elderly parents or others from becoming victims. Families should be constantly vigilant
of strangers who may be "casing" their street, and report incidents where persons have spoken to any
elders in conversations of irregular nature."
"Anyone who is a victim of such crime should never disclose
their PIN number or banking details to anyone who phones trying to obtain such information."
"Police always want to hear about any such incidents whereby the
elderly are victims of burglaries or any offending. The public can call the North Shore Policing Centre on
488 6200 anytime," said Senior Sergeant Powell.
North Shore Policing Centre is now on phone Nr 477 5000 |
