Warning as thief targets elderly villagers in Rustington

The thief first struck at an address in Tasman Close, on Monday afternoon (February 3). He knocked on the door of the property at about 3pm, claiming that he knew a neighbour, and asking for money.

He later distracted the occupant by asking for a glass of water, before stealing £100 from her purse.

Yesterday (Tuesday, February 4), the thief attempted to break into a home in the nearby Pigeonhouse Lane. He was distracted by the homeowner and fled the scene.

Police say both victims were elderly and living alone. The suspect is described as male, approximately 5ft 4in tall and wearing a dark hat.

PCSO Michelle Davies, of Arun neighbourhood policing, said: “Where appropriate, please advise your elderly neighbours, friends and relatives in the area.”

She added the force was keen to gather details about the suspect’s mode of transport and direction of travel. Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101.