Hunt for fake policeman in Mid Devon
Police are investigating a theft and attempted burglaries carried out by a suspect impersonating a police officer.
This has been said to have taken place around 8.00pm on Tuesday 5 July, at a number of properties in Culm Haven, Uffculme, near Cullompton.
Police have attended and conducted house to house searches with a police dog after residents discovered a man attempting to enter their property on two occassions, in which the suspect claimed to be a poloice officer, and on one occassion is believed to have been caught leaving a property.
During the house to house searches its alleged that police found one person had his wallet stolen from his home with £50 inside.
Inspector Stephen Bradford said: “It is believed that attempts were made to gain entry to a number of properties within Culm Haven. The suspect is described as tall, thin, dishevelled, and wearing a dark/navy baseball cap with a white logo on the front, aged around 30-40 and wearing dark clothes.
“We have also had a description that claims the suspect was wearing a denim jacket, and one stating a light beige jacket. Enquiries are continuing to identify the person or persons responsible.
"I would like to remind all that your home could be targeted by opportunist thieves if your front and back doors are unlocked, or windows are open during the warm weather. Please ensure that your homes are secure, and keep an eye out for your neighbour to make sure their homes are not at risk
“Impersonating a police officer is a criminal offence. A genuine police officer will always take the time to reassure you of their identity. Always ask for their shoulder number which is unique to each officer, ask to see ID and call the police to confirm the officers identity if you are at all unsure or have any concerns.
“Incidents such as these are rare, but If you believe you have been approached by a person who is impersonating a police officer, please call 999.”
Anyone with information is asked to email police on 101@dc.police.uk or call 101 quoting police crime reference CR/045311/16.
