Police investigating a spate of distraction burglaries in the county are appealing for witnesses and urging the public to remain vigilant.
Three offences occurred on Wednesday 30 March along Albert Road in Corfe Mullen and one incident at Hill View in Charminster, Dorchester. Two further offences took place on Thursday 31 March at Sandringham Court in Dorchester and Broadwindsor near Beaminster.
Detectives believe the same man is responsible and he has been known to target flats and retirement accommodation. He is described white, aged in his 40s, over six feet tall and of stocky build.
The offender is believed to enter the main building and then check to see if any flat door is open.
If a door is unlocked he walks in and rifles through the victim’s possessions. The victim is usually in another room and is unaware this is happening.
The offender then approaches the victim and claims to be a salesman and offers cleaning products from his holdall. He then asks the victim to write their name and address down so his boss knows he has been there.
Detective Sergeant Mark Shields, of Dorset Police’s Priority Crime Team, said: “I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed these incidents or has been approached in this manner to contact police on 101.
“If you find a stranger in your home in any circumstances, dial 999 immediately.
“I would also urge the public to ensure doors are locked and if you live in a block of flats please do not allow access through the main doors to anyone you do not know.
“Always ask for ID and check the validity of anyone who comes to your door. Police and trading standing advice is very simple: do not buy from door step traders.”
