11:17am Tuesday 16th March 2010
By Tyrone Marshall
A TEENAGER pretending to collect sponsorship money for charities has committed a spate of burglaries.
The criminal has been targeting elderly people in Burnley and Nelson, and talking his way into their homes before taking items including purses and handbags.
A number of burglaries have taken place during the past month, including four since March 7, in Queensgate in Nelson, and Casterton Avenue, Eastern Avenue and Rydal Street in Burnley.
The youngster, believed to be aged between 14 and 17 and riding a red BMX, tells elderly residents he is collecting sponsorship money for a forthcoming event, but once inside the property takes items when their back is turned.
Insp Karen Edwards said: “This is a despicable and cowardly crime.
"I would appeal for anyone with information to come for-ward so we can catch this person.
“We have a dedicated team set up working on these incidents and doing everything we can to catch the offender.”
Police are also asking elderly residents to be vigilant and take measures to protect themselves against this type of crime, as well as asking for neighbours to keep an eye out.
She said: “I would like to reassure people that crimes of this type are very rare.
“But residents should be vigil-ant and ask for ID for people call-ing at the door and make sure they are genuine.
“I would also ask neighbours to keep an eye on vulnerable people who could be targeted and if they see anyone matching this description to come forward.”
The incidents in Casterton Avenue, Eastern Avenue and Rydal Street happened on Sunday, March 7 between 8am and 11am.
The offender usually wears a light coloured hoodie and black tracksuit bottoms, and is of medium build and between 5ft 5ins and 5ft 8ins.
If you have any information call PC Haydn Sibley on 01282 472121.
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