DON’T FALL FOR ‘WATER BOARD’ CON
 
Dear Coordinator,

DETECTIVES are urging people not to fall prey to distraction burglars after a spate of incidents recently, where the offenders have claimed to be from the ‘water board'.The offenders are conning their way into the properties of older people by claiming that they need to gain access to the property because they are investigating a water leak. The offenders usually operate in twos; one will distract the victim whilst the second carries out a search of their property.
Investigator Julie Fewings, from Operation Manhunt, Hertfordshire Constabulary's team dedicated to catching distraction burglars, said:
"This is a classic method used by offenders to gain access to a person's property, particularly at this time of the year. Water Boards' no longer exist, it is an obsolete phrase used only by these criminals.

"However these criminals will use any guise and my advice would be not to let anyone into your property if you are not expecting them.

"They usually prey on older people because they tend to be very trusting and are inclined to open the door because they feel there is an emergency. If you do get a call which you believe is suspicious contact police immediately."

Hertfordshire Constabulary gives the following advice to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of distraction burglary, or bogus callers:

• Rule One: If a stranger calls - Not sure? Don't open the door!
• Rule Two: Only open your door when you are happy that you know the person
• Rule Three: Never keep large amounts of cash at home

If you need to reply by email click on my address here: kyle.price2@herts.pnn.police.uk.
Regards,
Kyle Price
Watch Liaison Officer
Neighbourhood Watch
Email: kyle.price2@herts.pnn.police.uk
Tel: 01992 533835