|
Fraud warning following door
step selling of mobility scooter in Southport area
MERSEYSIDE Police have issued an appeal
after a 98 year old woman was victim of an alleged fraud, in Southport, and they
have also told the public to be extra vigilant! We can report that a 45 year man
has been arrested on suspicion of 'Fraud by False Representation' in relation to
this alleged offence.
This incident is reported to have taken place at around 5.15pm, on Tuesday, 29
March 2016. Merseyside Police have told us that the victim is reported to have
been at home, in Alexandra Road, when a man is believed to have attended the
address, claiming to be acting on behalf of a mobility scooter company. He is
said to have stated that the company was recalling her scooter and is said to
have then taken it. It's alleged that the man left a courtesy scooter in its
place, which he is then alleged to have attempted to sell to the victim!
D/C Darrell Rotherham from Sefton CID said:- "This was a despicable
attempt to defraud an elderly lady. Offenders like this deliberately target the
most vulnerable in our community in their own homes, a place where they have a
right to feel safe and secure. I would also appeal to people to keep an eye on
any elderly and vulnerable neighbours and family members. If you notice anyone
suspicious in the area, always call the Police or contact your Local
Neighbourhood Policing Team for more advice."
There are a number of steps everyone can take to help prevent this type of crime
and they include:-
► Do not open your door if you are unsure who the
caller is. Always make sure you know who visitors are by asking to see their
identification.
► Never let people into your property if you don't know them.
► Always keep the key chain on the door whilst talking to callers and always
check their ID before letting them into your home. Genuine callers won't mind
you doing this. If callers haven't got valid identification, don't let them in.
► Bogus callers often pretend to be someone official, for example, from a
utility company or the water board. They will also try to distract people by
asking for a drink of water or if they can use the toilet. Remember "if in
doubt, keep them out."
► Remember to close and lock the back door before you answer the front door.
It's a good idea to have a viewer or spy hole and a stout chain fitted to all
the external doors to the property.
► Don't keep large quantities of cash at home. It's better in the bank where
it's safe.
► If someone asks for your help (for example, if they want to make a telephone
call or claim to have lost a ball in your garden) always ask a friend or
neighbour, or someone else you trust, for help.
Anyone with information on this or any similar offences are being asked to
contact Sefton CID on:- (0151) 7773059 on the non emergency:- 101 number or
Crimestoppers, anonymously, on:- 0800 555 111. If you feel in danger and a
suspected bogus caller has just been, call Merseyside Police on:- 999. |
