Police DVD zooms in on bogus caller menace

The short DVD focuses on the ways in which callous thieves can con their way into the homes of vulnerable and elderly people in order to steal from them.

Pc Deborah Ardron originally came up with the idea after being asked to give a talk on bogus callers at her local community centre. She thought a DVD would be useful to reach a wider audience.

Insp Richard Sullivan, of the Pontefract and Knottingley Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “I hope this short film will assist in preventing this type of appalling crime in which criminals prey on some of the most vulnerable in our communities.

“The film tells the short story of how easy it is to trust a stranger and let them into your home, only to find they are not what they seemed – they can steal your savings or belongings and have left before your realise anything is missing.”

PC Ardron and police community support officer, Paul Guest, among officers who star in the film, are due to give a presentation to residents on the dangers of bogus callers and the DVD will be played. It will also be played at residential community centres and gatherings around Pontefract and Knottingley to get the message across to elderly and vulnerable people who are generally targeted because they tend to be more trusting.

The film is available on You Tube and also via Pontefract and Knottingley Neighbourhood Policing Team website and Facebook pages.

Insp Sullivan urged people to be vigilant saying: “Before you open the door check to see who it is by looking through your front window or by using a door viewer if you have one.

“If you have a chain, only open the door when it is secured. Get a good look at the caller’s clothing and their identification – most officials will have a uniform bearing their company or organisation logo.”