Distraction burglaries and purse thefts in Louth

At around 6pm on Tuesday May 9, a man stole cash from a purse in someone’s home after asking to use the toilet. (Incident 366).

On the same day, two women with a pushchair approached and elderly lady in Kidgate asking for money, after claiming their handbag had been stolen. They asked for the lady’s address in order to repay the cash, but then later turned up at her home to ask for more money. (Incident 336).

At around 2.45pm on Wednesday May 10, a woman in the St James’ Church gift shop had her purse stolen after being distracted by a man and woman with a pushchair (Incident 260), and a purse was also stolen from a woman shopping in Mercer Row on Saturday May 13.

If you have witnessed any suspicious activity, or have had any similar incident occur, report it to Lincolnshire Police on 101.

Residents are urged to be very cautious when answering the door and not allow strangers into their home, however plausible they may seem.

PC Rachel Dobson, Louth’s Community Beat Manager, said: “Any local resident who would like to speak to someone from the Neighbourhood Policing Team to discuss home security can contact me on 07973 843117 or 01522 947703”.